3778/21

Planning permission to refurbish courts 6 and 7 with full ITF Class 1 Professional 12m Court Sports Lighting at corners of each tennis court (6 light poles in total), associated ground works and all associated site works.

Granted

Core Planning Reasoning

The Inspector recommended a grant of permission because the development supports the Z9 zoning objective to improve recreational amenity, and technical evidence confirms that the floodlighting design—specifically the 12-metre height—minimizes light spill and glare to levels well within acceptable limits for suburban residential areas.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The proposed floodlighting complies with policies GI31 and SN19 of the Dublin City Development Plan by enhancing existing sports facilities and increasing their usable hours during winter months.
  • Technical modeling demonstrates that vertical light spill at adjacent properties (max 6-8 lux) is well below the 10 lux permissible limit for a suburban 'E3' environmental zone.
  • The use of 12-metre columns is technically justified as it allows for a steeper beam angle and more effective cowling, which reduces glare and prevents upward light spread more efficiently than lower columns.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Zoning Z9 (Recreational Amenity and Open Space)Zoning Z2 (Residential Conservation Areas)Policy SI26 (External Lighting Design)Policy GI31 (Sports/Recreational Facilities)Policy SN19 (Playgrounds and Play Spaces)

Decision Document Summary

The proposal involves the refurbishment of tennis courts 6 and 7 at the Claremont Railway Lawn Tennis Club in Sandymount, including the installation of 6 no. 12-metre high floodlight columns with LED lanterns. The site is situated in an urban context zoned Z9, though it is adjacent to residential properties at St. John's Road East and Radcliffe Hall. A key point of contention was the Planning Authority's initial decision to omit lights for Court 6 to protect residential amenity. However, the Ins...
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View the appeal at An Bord Pleanála