Litir Chumhdaigh
I am a Creative Entomologist who carries out insect surveys for conservation management and promotes insect biodiversity through workshops, school visits and outings. I have led an insect walk and attended other events at Rathcoole Woodlands.
I wish to make a submission to the public consultation regarding:
Section 2.7.2 Self-Sustaining Growth Towns / Self-Sustaining Town – Rathcoole
Amendment 2.13
Page 73
I am asking for the protection of all of the rewilding area in map 8, much of which is Woodland, including priority Annex 1 habitat Alluvial Woodland. As someone who has studied the wet woodland in the Dodder Valley, I can confirm that wet woodlands such as these provide unique and essential habitat for many uncommon invertebrate species. They offer irreplaceable support to our biodiversity in a time of environmental crisis, and protection against flooding in the face of the changing climate.
It is the largest rewilding area in South Dublin and should be kept intact. This means that where the rewilding area overlaps with the Res – N in the zoning map accompanying CS10 SLO1 along with the proposed rural zoning; is changed to, in order of preference:
· Nature/Biodiversity Conservation Zoning (new zoning)
· High Amenity Zoning
· Rural Zoning
I also urge the Council to reconsider the zoning of wildflower meadow to Res-N. It is a valuable lowland hay meadow and superb for pollinators and people alike.