I am writing to express my strong support for the decision by the Elected Members to retain the High Amenity (HA) zoning at St. Edmundsbury and to oppose any proposal for residential development on these lands.
St. Edmundsbury is an integral part of the Liffey Valley landscape, providing essential biodiversity, environmental value, and a vital green space for the community. Rezoning this land for housing would be a significant loss to the area's natural heritage and would contradict the principles of sustainable planning.
Lucan has already accommodated a disproportionately large share of new housing development in South Dublin, and our local infrastructure is at a breaking point. Our transport network is severely congested, local schools are oversubscribed, and healthcare services are struggling to meet the demands of the current population. Adding hundreds of new homes at St. Edmundsbury without a radical improvement in these services is unsustainable and unfair to both existing and future residents.
While the need for housing is clear, it should not come at the expense of our environment or the quality of life in our communities. As a county, we have already identified sufficient capacity to meet housing targets in other, more suitable locations. The focus must be on balanced and sustainable development, which prioritizes an infrastructure-first approach.
We must protect the ecological and visual character of the Liffey Valley. Retaining the High Amenity zoning for St. Edmundsbury is essential for preserving biodiversity and ensuring that Lucan remains a healthy and attractive place to live.
I urge the council to uphold the decision of the elected members and retain the High Amenity zoning for St. Edmundsbury.