Sir, – The Jesuit lands at Milltown, Dublin 6, of 10.5 acres were sold to a developer in 2020 for €66 million. There has been speculation that a planning application under Strategic Housing Development legislation is imminent for a build-to-rent development.
There is a lack of public open space, especially sports facilities in the Rathmines/Ranelagh area. Build-to-rent apartments have reduced space and aspect standards, few parking spaces, lack of communal facilities and of course are unavailable for purchase by people wishing to live in the area.
As the lands are zoned Z15, there is a requirement in the Dublin City Council Development Plan for 25 per cent of such institutional lands to be set aside as public open space; in this case equivalent to 2.5 acres which could accommodate a sports pitch.
However it is unlikely that this will happen as almost all SHDs now materially contravene the development plan which has led to judicial reviews being taken.
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The Ranelagh Gaels GAA group, catering to both adults and children, has no playing pitch. An example of an opportunity being lost due to the deficiency of the current planning system is again highlighted.
– Yours, etc,
MARION CASHMAN,
Rathmines, Dublin 6.