I strongly support retaining St Edmundsbury as High Amenity lands.

St Edmundsbury is an important green space that contributes significantly to the environmental, cultural and social wellbeing of Lucan. Retaining its High Amenity zoning is fully aligned with the National Planning Framework's objectives to protect biodiversity, strengthen green infrastructure, preserve our built and natural heritage, and support Ireland's transition to a climate-resilient society.

For many years, the local community has understood that St Edmundsbury would form part of the wider vision for a Liffey Valley Park. Former Tánaiste Mary Harney publicly supported this vision, creating a strong expectation that these lands would be protected and integrated into a continuous green corridor for public amenity and recreation rather than developed.

The lands form part of a valuable ecological corridor that supports wildlife, improves biodiversity, and connects existing green spaces. Development would fragment this landscape, weaken ecological connectivity, and permanently diminish an irreplaceable natural asset.

The National Planning Framework also recognises that high-quality landscapes and accessible green spaces create a strong sense of place, improve public health, and enhance community wellbeing. St Edmundsbury provides these benefits for current and future generations while protecting the unique character and heritage of Lucan.

I respectfully ask South Dublin County Council to retain St Edmundsbury as High Amenity lands and ensure that this important landscape continues to be protected for biodiversity, recreation, heritage and climate resilience, while honouring the long-standing vision of a connected Liffey Valley Park for the people of Lucan.