Core Planning Reasoning
The proposed development is considered acceptable as the change of use from retail to leisure (dance studio) is 'permitted in principle' under the Major Town Centre (MTC) zoning objective, facilitates the activation of a long-term vacant commercial unit, and incorporates adequate noise mitigation measures to protect the residential amenity of neighboring apartments.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The leisure facility use is consistent with the 'MTC' zoning objective which aims to protect and improve major town centre facilities.
- Potential noise disturbance to the residential apartments above is effectively mitigated by the internal layout, which positions active studio spaces under external terraces rather than residential footprints, and by technical soundproofing commitments.
- The proposal supports the vitality of the area by occupying a unit that has been vacant since 2017 and does not pose a significant risk to traffic safety or community security.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan 2022-2028Chapter 13 (Land Use zoning objectives)Table 13.1.1 (Development Plan Zoning Objectives)Zoning Map 3: (Dun Laoghaire)Zoning Objective MTCSection 12.6.8.2 (Signage)
Decision Document Summary
The application seeks a material change of use for a 452sqm vacant retail unit at Unit 1, Marine Walk, Dun Laoghaire, to a dance studio with associated signage. The site is located on the ground floor of a 4/5 storey mixed-use building with residential apartments above, situated within the curtilage of the Royal Marine Hotel (a protected structure). The appeal, lodged by a third-party resident, centered on concerns regarding noise pollution, vibration, and security. The Inspector noted that the ...SOURCE PDFOpen Original
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