5194/22
Application apply for a 10-year permission for development at Dolphin Park, Crumlin Road, Dublin 12. The development principally consists of: the realignment of the 2 No. existing Senior Pitches with 1 No. pitch enclosed in a 990 millimetre high spectator barrier/fence; an all-weather pitch enclosed in a 990 millimetre high spectator barrier/fence; grass training areas; warm-up areas; and the construction of a new 2 No. storey clubhouse (745.6 sq m). The clubhouse notably includes: changing rooms; south- east facing, first floor terrace; rooftop solar panels; a digital score board; and 2 No. logos (signage). The development also proposes the demolition and removal of the existing 1 No. storey clubhouse (190.1 sq m); ball-stop netting; 3 No. lighting poles; and hard-surfacing. In addition, the development proposes the provision of: a 2 metre wide jogging/walking path: 93 No. car parking spaces (including mobility impaired and EV charging spaces); coach and mini bus parking; cycle parking; 21 No. new floodlights ranging in height from 15 metres to 20 metres; public lighting; generator; goal posts and 12 metre high retractable ball-stop netting in locations throughout the site; ball wall; hard and soft landscaping; and all associated site works. A Natura Impact Statement has been prepared in respect of the proposed development.
Core Refusal Reason
Potential adverse impact on protected bird species (Light-bellied Brent Goose) and significant injury to residential amenity through noise and light disturbance.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The applicant failed to prove beyond doubt that the development would not result in adverse ex-situ effects on the Light-bellied Brent Goose, a species of conservation interest for several Special Protection Areas (SPAs).
- The cumulative impact of the proposed physical works and the intensification of use during winter months would lead to the loss of feeding grounds and significant disruption to protected wintering birds.
- The relocation of pitches and the extent of proposed floodlighting would cause an unacceptable increase in activity, noise, and general disturbance for residents on Rutland Avenue and Clogher Road.
Cited Policies (CDP)
Decision Document Summary
The proposal involved a 10-year permission for significant upgrades to Dolphin Park in Crumlin, including an all-weather pitch, floodlighting, and pitch realignment. The Planning Authority refused the application primarily because the site serves as a critical feeding ground for the Light-bellied Brent Goose; the development was deemed contrary to the precautionary principle and several green infrastructure policies of the Dublin City Development Plan. Furthermore, the intensification of use and...PDF Document Missing
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