COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF TALLAGHT AREA COMMITTEE

Monday, May 26, 2025

QUESTION NO.

QUESTION: Councillor K. Keane

"To ask the Council whether the Council would consider giving access to, or loaning, a small portion of land in Killinarden Park to Sacred Heart Senior School in Killinarden to facilitate the placement of a modular unit for a special class? There is a desperate need for a special class in the Senior School. There is agreement from the Department of Education to provide a permanent build for two special classes, however it is unlikely that these would be built before September 2027. In the meantime, a modular unit would provide spaces for an additional 6 children from September. The Department is seeking to provide such a unit. However, there are a number of obstacles to this from the point of view of the Board of Management. The biggest of these problems is the absence of appropriate space in the current grounds. I attach a potential location in the park. An opening could be created in the fence and the fencing continued on the other side of the modular unit to ensure that the school and park remain appropriately fenced. If this is a possibility, what would be the next steps for the Council to pursue it?"

REPLY:

Public Realm have examined the proposal and on preliminary inspection it would not be recommended. The proposal would create a number of blind corners along the park boundary that would be contrary to good design, to help prevent anti social behaviour. We try as much as possible to have straight lines along boundaries to open views and provide for passive surveillance for people walking in the park. It allows people to view their route ahead and ensure there are no potential hazards. However, if the school wish to submit a proposal for wider consideration, a request for acquisition of public land, including a map that clearly outlines the area proposed for acquisition, can be made to: landmanagement@sdublincoco.ie