SD23A/0292
The construction of a new 485 m2 crematorium within the grounds of Esker Lawn Cemetery consisting of a congregation space, 1 no. electric cremator and associated plant and services spaces, and the provision of visitor toilets, and ESB substation; provision of new car parking area and minor adjustments to existing parking resulting in the net addition of 2 parking spaces; amendments to existing site landscaping involving removal and reduction of existing hard surfaces and roadway surfaces and all associated works; the construction of new landscaping works including a contemplation pond, water feature, planted landscape berms and swale drains at the building perimeter and at the adjacent area designated for grave spaces under SD10A/0331 as part of a combined suds drainage and biodiverse planting strategy; temporary access for construction traffic to be provided from the eastern boundary, and the existing boundary treatment reinstated post construction.
Core Planning Reasoning
The proposed development is consistent with the 'Open Space' zoning of the South Dublin County Development Plan 2022-2028, where crematoria are 'open for consideration', and it is considered that the proposal would not seriously injure residential amenities, prejudice public health, or compromise traffic safety.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The principle of development is acceptable as crematoria are listed as an 'open for consideration' use under the 'Open Space' zoning objective, and the applicant has satisfactorily demonstrated a need for the facility in the Dublin region.
- The proposal will not adversely impact residential amenity or public health due to a separation distance of over 100m from the nearest dwellings and the use of an electric cremator which meets strict environmental emission limit values.
- Traffic and parking impacts are considered negligible given that funeral services will occur outside of peak hours and the existing site access is already approved for integration into the forthcoming Grand Canal to Lucan Urban Greenway.