Businesses protest over plans by funeral home
By Maurice Garvey
A NUMBER of objections have been lodged with Dublin City Council over proposals by Stafford Funeral Home to develop the former health centre on Ballyfermot Road.
The plans were lodged earlier this year by Lemford Ltd – whose current directors are five members of the Stafford family, and whose principal activity is listed as funeral and related activities.
Proposals for the former health centre include change-of-use, to a mixed-use facility comprising “coffee shop and florist, and community-cultural-funeral services.”
Objections have been lodged by three local businesses in the funeral, florist and cafe trade – Larry Masseys, Jackies Florist and Ger’s Deli respectively.
Collectively, the trio feel the proposed development will have a “negative impact” on their business.
Architects Delahunty and Harley made a submission on behalf of clients Larry Masseys – stating the objection was on grounds of conflict with the Development Plan.
The submission cites an “adverse impact on residential amenity and property value of surrounding homes”, and concerns for an “increase in traffic hazard.”
Jackie’s Florist, who have been in operation on the Ballyfermot Road for over 30 years, employing 10 people at two outlets, made an objection, citing “several changes” in recent years to continue to trade successfully.
The florists say if the proposed development is successful, it will have a “severely negative impact” on business, leading to staff cuts, and would “greatly impact” other businesses in the area.
Ger’s Deli, who employ six staff on Ballyfermot Road, also made an objection, saying they “compete with 10 other delis in the area” and the proposed development would put “too much pressure” on the business.
Staffords operate four funeral homes on the northside of the city.
The plans include internal and external alterations, refurbishment of front facade, a front main entrance, and separate entrance to coffee shop and florist, with provision for 22 on-site car parking spaces.
The 1.04 acres site was sold last year for in excess of €825,000, and contains three detached buildings.
Dublin City Council have yet to make a decision on the plans.
In the latest planning action, city planners have requested Staffords supply additional information including details on parking, traffic, and long term redevelopment and use of the site.
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