Observation
**Submission in Support of Proposed Specific Local Objectives**
I wish to express my support for the proposed amendments relating to **Amendment Ref. Nos. 2 (Adamstown SDZ West), 3 (Finnstown Castle), 4 (Tubber Lane North), 6 (St. Edmundsbury Specific Local Objective), and 7 (Edmondstown Road).**
I welcome the Council's decision to strengthen the planning requirements for these sites by ensuring that future development is supported by appropriate infrastructure, environmental protection and community facilities.
In particular, I support the requirements for:
* Infrastructure masterplans to be prepared before development proceeds.
* Confirmation that sufficient water and wastewater capacity is available.
* Comprehensive Transport and Traffic Assessments to identify and mitigate impacts on the surrounding road network.
* Social Infrastructure Audits to ensure schools, healthcare and other community services can accommodate future growth.
* Public Open Space Audits and the provision of high-quality open spaces for residents.
* Ecological Impact Assessments to protect biodiversity and existing habitats.
* The retention and enhancement of existing hedgerows and mature trees wherever possible.
* Design Statements that respect Protected Structures and their setting.
* Improved active travel connections for pedestrians and cyclists.
* The requirement that the proposed Liffey Valley park at St. Edmundsbury is delivered in tandem with, or before, adjoining residential development.
I particularly welcome the emphasis on coordinated masterplanning rather than piecemeal development. Proper planning at the outset will help ensure that new housing is delivered alongside the transport, utility and community infrastructure needed to support sustainable communities.
My support relates to these strengthened planning safeguards and should not be taken as support for every associated zoning amendment proposed as part of the variation.
Overall, I believe these proposed Specific Local Objectives will help ensure that future development is well planned, respects the surrounding environment and heritage, and delivers the infrastructure necessary to support both new and existing communities. I encourage the Council to retain these provisions in the final Variation.