Submission on Proposed Material Alterations to Variation No. 2 – St Edmundsbury, Lucan

I wish to strongly object to the proposed rezoning of the St Edmundsbury lands from High Amenity (HA-LV) to Residential and respectfully request that the existing High Amenity zoning be retained.

While I acknowledge the importance of increasing housing supply, I do not believe that this site is an appropriate location for residential development. My objection is based on the following planning considerations.

1. Protection of High Amenity Land

St Edmundsbury forms part of the River Liffey Valley, one of the most significant remaining natural landscapes within the built-up area of Lucan. The existing High Amenity zoning exists to protect landscapes of exceptional scenic, environmental and recreational value.

As Lucan continues to expand, accessible green spaces become increasingly important. These lands provide opportunities for walking, recreation, biodiversity and quiet enjoyment of nature that cannot be replicated once they are lost to development. While new housing can be delivered elsewhere, the permanent loss of protected High Amenity land is irreversible.

2. Infrastructure Must Precede Development

Lucan has experienced substantial residential growth over the past two decades, yet transport and community infrastructure have not kept pace. Traffic congestion through Lucan Village is already severe during peak periods, and existing pressure on schools, healthcare services and public transport continues to increase.

Further significant residential development should only proceed when the necessary infrastructure is already in place. The continued approach of delivering housing first and infrastructure afterwards places an unnecessary burden on existing communities and reduces the quality of life for both current and future residents.

3. Sustainable Planning and the Long-Term Interests of Lucan

Housing delivery is essential, but it must be balanced with the protection of strategic green infrastructure and the long-term sustainability of established communities. Once High Amenity land is rezoned and developed, it cannot be restored.

There are significant areas of land already identified and zoned for residential development elsewhere in South Dublin County. Priority should be given to delivering housing on those lands, together with the infrastructure required to support them, before considering the loss of one of Lucan's most important protected landscapes.

For these reasons, I respectfully request that South Dublin County Council retain the existing High Amenity zoning for the St Edmundsbury lands and reject the proposed rezoning.