As already stated on multiple occasions in recent times, it is unconscionable that anyone could consider destroying these green areas which are of enormous value to residents and visitors near and far - for pleasure as a recreational area, and even more importantly, for the huge health value – short-term and long-term.  Additionally, and of equal if not greater value, these green spaces are a vital habitat for wildlife and to help counter the devasting and critical impact of climate change.  It is critical that these green spaces are protected

Every environmental report / expert highlights the critical need for green spaces for our physical and mental health, as well as for the environment more generally and of course our vulnerable climate.  These green spaces are also important for the aesthetic of the area, and with so many other green spaces lost under countless governments’ watch, these few remaining areas are even more precious and the need for us to protect is vital.

To contemplate any interference or destruction, for any reason and under any guise, would be devastating and unforgivable – particularly as once interfered with, the impact is massive and long-term if not permanent.

It is not an exaggeration to consider it criminal to put any short-term personal gain ahead of the permanent destruction of such a vital amenity. Furthermore, the perceived short-term gain would be far outweighed by the negative impact in terms of cost, financial and otherwise, that would follow any interference.

To destroy any part would be totally wrong and misguided. 

Nobody is fooled by the suggestion that there is no alternative option for housing. Or that the devastating impact would not be significant, far reaching and permanent. 

Communities and wildlife are dependant on you to make the right decision and represent us, not short-term gains or greedy developers and business people.  We rely on you to do the right thing and protect these critically important lands for all who depend on them. This land is not yours to destroy.

Additionally, Lucan is already struggling with the current level of development.  As a public bus user, I have experienced first hand the continued deterioration of our public bus service, the endless traffic congestion throughout the village and the lack of facilities for our current village population.  To add further accommodation, even with the proposed token supports, cannot be sustained.

If you do not do what residents beg of you, it will not be forgotten by the massive community of humans and wildlife who will be negatively impacted forever. 

 Again I beg you on behalf of myself, my family, my community and the wildlife, please do the right thing for now and for the future, and commit to never rezoning these precious lands.  Our lives, including yours, depends on it. 

Thank you.

Kind regards

Bobi McCarthy and Nicolas Gaillard

Long-term Lucan Village residents (3rd generation Lucan resident)