Re: Proposed Material Alterations – Proposed Variation No. 2, South Dublin County Development Plan 2022–2028

I am writing to support the retention of St Edmundsbury as High Amenity land, and I strongly oppose any rezoning of this area for residential development.

St Edmundsbury's value lies in its environment, its biodiversity and its open green space. Retaining its High Amenity designation aligns directly with the National Planning Framework, which calls for enhancing amenity, preserving heritage and supporting the transition to a climate-resilient society. The site's green infrastructure supports the NPF's focus on biodiversity, climate action and protecting our natural capital — assets that, once lost, cannot be replaced.

Development here would sever established ecological corridors and damage the integrity of the wider landscape. It would also undermine the "sense of place" and community wellbeing that the NPF explicitly recognises as central to good planning. This is a place people walk, breathe and connect with nature, and its recreational and amenity value to the community is significant.

The strength of public feeling is clear: 1,800 submissions were made against the original rezoning proposal, and councillors rightly voted against it on 19 June. I ask that the council respect that decision and the community it represents by retaining St Edmundsbury as High Amenity land.

Yours sincerely,
Kate Blanchfield