I wish to express my strong support for the proposal to retain St Edmundsbury as High Amenity Lands.

St Edmundsbury is a valuable and irreplaceable natural asset within South Dublin. These lands provide significant environmental, recreational and community benefits and should be protected for current and future generations.

My family and I have enjoyed many walks in St Edmundsbury over the years, and it has become a very important part of our lives. My children have grown up enjoying walks here, experiencing the changing seasons, exploring nature and developing a connection with the outdoors. The opportunity for families to access and enjoy such a special natural environment close to home is something that should be protected and valued.

Retaining St Edmundsbury as high amenity land is fully aligned with the principles of sustainable planning, climate resilience and environmental protection. The National Planning Framework places strong emphasis on enhancing amenity, protecting biodiversity, strengthening green infrastructure and creating sustainable communities. Protecting these lands supports these objectives by safeguarding an important natural resource and maintaining ecological connections within the wider landscape.

The integrity and character of this landscape are important considerations. Development of these lands would risk damaging habitats, disrupting ecological corridors and permanently changing the unique sense of place that St Edmundsbury provides. Natural landscapes of this quality are difficult, if not impossible, to replace once lost.

The National Planning Framework recognises the importance of high-quality places that support community wellbeing, identity and a strong sense of belonging. St Edmundsbury contributes directly to this by providing a peaceful, accessible green space where people can walk, exercise, connect with nature and spend meaningful time together.

At a time when climate change, biodiversity loss and the protection of natural resources are among our greatest challenges, it is essential that planning decisions recognise the long-term value of protecting our remaining green spaces. Retaining St Edmundsbury as High Amenity Lands represents responsible and forward-looking planning that benefits both the environment and the local community.

I respectfully request that South Dublin County Council supports the retention of St Edmundsbury as High Amenity Lands.
 

Sincerely,

Liz Pratt & family