E. O. Wilson emphasized that the destruction of habitats and subsequent loss of species is a long-lasting, unforgivable mistake
This submission is created on facts and truths included in the Planning and Development Act 2024, the National Planning Framework , the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the Eastern and Midland Region, and the environmental objectives of the South Dublin County Development Plan.
Retaining the High Amenity designation at St Edmundsbury is therefore entirely consistent with the strategic direction of the NPF.
- Protection of Green Infrastructure and Natural Capital
- St Edmundsbury forms part of Lucan’s wider green infrastructure network.
The site contributes significantly to:
- biodiversity;
- ecological connectivity;
- carbon storage;
- urban cooling;
- sustainable drainage and flood attenuation;
- air quality;
- visual amenity; and
- recreational open space.
These ecosystem services are invaluable natural collection that cannot readily be replaced once lost.
The NPF specifically promotes the integration of green infrastructure into planning policy because it delivers long-term environmental, economic and social benefits.
Removing the High Amenity designation would be inconsistent with this objective.
- Biodiversity and Ecological Corridors
The lands provide an important ecological link within the wider landscape surrounding Lucan and contribute to habitat associated with the River Liffey corridor.
Development would fragment existing habitats and sever ecological corridors that support birds, pollinators, mammals and other wildlife.
The NPF and the RSES both recognise that maintaining connected ecological networks is fundamental to reversing biodiversity loss and increasing resilience to climate change.
- Climate Resilience
Climate action is one of the central pillars of the National Planning Framework.
Protecting existing green infrastructure is recognised as one of the most effective and economical climate adaptation measures available to planning authorities.
The St Edmundsbury lands currently provide nature-based climate solutions through carbon sequestration, natural drainage, urban cooling and flood mitigation.
These environmental services will become increasingly valuable as climate change intensifies.
Retaining the High Amenity designation directly supports Ireland’s transition to a climate-resilient society.
Compliance with National Planning framework, enhance amenity, preserve heritage, transition to climate resilisent society.Compliance with National Planning framework, green infrastructure aligns with NPFs focus on biodiversity, climate action natural capital. Development would sever ecological corridors and damage the landscapes integrity.
St. Edmundsburt forms an indispensable part of Lucans natural heritage, local ecology, and community well being. It is an integral component to the liffey valley special amenity area.
At a time when Irish ecologists are calling for the rewilding of our world to restore biodiversity, St Edmundsbury represents a habitat that must be protected.
Ireland is one of the most nature-depleted countries in Europe and ranks amongst the lowest (bottom 10%) globally on the Biodiversity Intactness Index. Decades of development, agricultural intensification and monoculture forestry have left us with too few places where native biodiversity can flourish. Protecting the habitats we still have is therefore just as important as creating new ones.
South Dublin Country must demonstrate courage of their convictions with regards to environmental objectives of the South Dublin County Development Plan and consistent with the strategic direction of the National Planning Framework