3170/24

RETENTION PERMISSION/ PERMISSION . The retention permission sought relates to a retaining wall consisting of gabion cages on a sloping bank on lands zoned Z9 in Dublin City Councils Development Plan 2022-2028 to the south of No. 124 Rathfarnham Road which was constructed on foot of permission reference ABP-306149-19 (Ref. 3316/19). Permission is sought for the completion of partially constructed outdoor steps, landscaping works and all ancillary site development works. The overall site area is 912m2 (0.912ha).

Granted

Core Planning Reasoning

The applicant failed to demonstrate that the development would not have a significant detrimental impact on trees, habitats, and ecology (specifically regarding bats and ecosystem services), and found that the works would be detrimental to the character of the Red-Hatched Conservation Area and the riparian environment of the River Dodder.

Decision Maker's Conclusion

  • The applicant provided insufficient technical information to allow for a full assessment of the long-term impact of the gabion structures on the root health and survival of mature trees on the site.
  • The retention of the gabion structures, even with proposed landscaping, fails to protect or enhance the special character and distinctiveness of the Red-Hatched Conservation Area and the sensitive riparian landscape.
  • The development is contrary to the Z9 zoning objective as it has not been clearly demonstrated that it would preserve, provide for, or improve the ecosystem services of the site.

Cited Policies (CDP)

Z9 Amenity/Open Space Lands/Green NetworkZ1 Sustainable Residential NeighbourhoodsPolicy GI14 (Ecological / Wildlife Corridors)Policy GI29 (Protect Character of River Corridors)Policy GI34 (New Development and Public Open Space along River Corridors)Policy GI41 (Protect Existing Trees as Part of New Development)Policy BHA9 (Conservation Areas)Section 14.7.9 (Amenity / Open Space Lands / Green Network)Section 15.6.6 (Sensitive Ecological Areas)Section 15.6.9 (Trees and Hedgerows)

Decision Document Summary

This Inspector's Report evaluates an appeal against Dublin City Council's decision to grant retention for a gabion retaining wall and permission for outdoor steps and landscaping at 124 Rathfarnham Road. The development is situated on a steep slope running down to the River Dodder, a site split between Z1 and Z9 zoning within a designated Conservation Area. The Inspector notes that the works on-site deviate from a previously permitted scheme (ABP-306149-19) and have been subject to prior enforce...
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