COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN, NEWCASTLE, RATHCOOLE, SAGGART AND BRITTAS AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, February 18, 2026

MOTION NO. 12

MOTION: Councillor S. O'Hara

That this Area Committee recognises the need for active protection of Rathcoole Woodlands within the RU zoned lands, and asks the Chief Executive to actively prepare a management plan for the conservation and protection of the same in light of it being a protected habitat.

REPORT:

The council is currently reviewing all relevant requirements of the Development Plan, including CS10 SLO1, in the context of the proposed Part 10 development. In consultation with the County Heritage Officer, it is proposed that a Woodlands Management Strategy will be prepared to address the long-term conservation and protection of the woodland. This plan will focus on a low-intervention, nature-led approach. This report will be prepared in parallel with the design proposals and will take account of the development proposals. The preparation of the management plan will consider future maintenance implications with the objective of ensuring that any measures proposed are sustainable. The emphasis will be on conservation through minimal intervention, such as fencing, unless strictly required for ecological of safety reasons.

The Chief Executive will continue to progress this work as part of the overall development process and will keep members informed as matters advance.