I object to the planned construction of synthetic grass pitch at Greenhills Park.

This green space holds significant historical and social value, established over 60 years ago through the dedicated efforts of local volunteers. It has since served as a vital communal area for generations, offering a peaceful and accessible environment for:

• Carers and elderly residents seeking a familiar, safe and tranquil outdoor space
• Wildlife habitat, including seasonal visits from migrating geese, and year-round presence of foxes and other native species
• Dog walking and informal recreation

The proposed installation of astro turf raises serious concerns regarding environmental and public health impacts, noise pollution and the general well being of people in the community.

• Health Risks: Artificial turf contains hazardous substances such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), phthalates, and PFAS — known carcinogens and endocrine disruptors.  Crucially, the long-term health consequences of exposure to these substances are still not fully understood, and caution should be exercised before introducing them into a residential setting.  The European Union has adopted legislation banning the sale of rubber granulate infill — a common component in artificial turf — from October 17, 2031, due to its classification as intentionally added microplastics. This reflects growing recognition of the environmental and health hazards posed by such materials.
• Privacy and Data Protection: The installation of CCTV raises serious concerns under GDPR, especially in a public space frequented by vulnerable individuals.
• Traffic and Parking: The area lacks sufficient parking infrastructure. We already experience significant parking issues in the area during weekends when the existing pitches are in use. The proposed development will exacerbate these problems, leading to increased congestion, noise, and safety risks for residents, many of whom are elderly.
• Visual and Residential Impact: The proposed column of floodlights will directly face into residents’ back gardens, causing light pollution and disrupting the peaceful character of the area.
• Environmental Degradation: Replacing natural greenery with plastic surfaces contributes to microplastic pollution and heat retention, harming both the ecosystem and community health.
• Property Devaluation: The transformation of a quiet green space into a high-traffic sports facility is likely to negatively affect property values in the surrounding area.
• Anti-social behaviour: sports pavilions in similar developments have been linked to increased anti-social behaviour, including loitering, noise and vandalism.

Also, the consultation process is fundamentally flawed.  The votes of non-residents, who will use the facility temporarily and then leave, have been given equal weight to those of local residents, who will be directly impacted every day. This undermines fair representation. Notably, the majority of those in favour do not live in the area and cite only one benefit — increased sports facilities. In contrast, the majority of those opposed are local residents who raise multiple, well-founded concerns.

South Dublin County Council should reconsider this proposal in light of its long-term impact on community wellbeing, environmental sustainability, and local heritage.