Sir, - Pat Cody (November 28th) criticised Fingal County Council for granting planning permission for our club's expansion, and suggested that our plans constitute a threat to the coastal zone of north Dublin from commercial development. Sutton Dinghy Club is not a "commercial enterprise"; it is a family-centred organisation which has been providing safe and enjoyable access to the waters of Dublin Bay to generations of north Dubliners. It enjoys the support of many of the local residents.
Founded in 1940, the club now finds it necessary to provide a larger storage area for the fleet of dinghies owned by members, and for the boats used to provide training courses open to the public - particularly to children from local and innercity schools. All income from subscriptions and course fees are used to cover running expenses; any surplus is re-invested in additional rescue boats and other club equipment.
The beach to which Mr Cody refers is of comparatively recent origin. It became a raised beach after our boat park was last extended in the 1960s, formed naturally from the accumulation of storm-borne materials against the south-eastern walls. Recognising the public amenity value created by this accumulation of sand and shingle, the Club development plans provide for the salvage of this material and its re-deposition outside the new development area - in effect moving the beach a short distance from its present location.
In granting planning permission, the County Council recognised the value of improving the recreational facility provided by our club, while preserving the natural environment. The decision is the subject of an appeal to An Bord Pleanala whose ruling on the matter is due to be published shortly. This club has no intention of fighting on the beaches - we trust in the planning authorities to make their decisions in the interests of the wider community. - Yours, etc.,
Charles Sargent, Commodore, Sutton Dinghy Club, Dublin 3.