Council refuses change of use to two properties on flood plain

PLANS for the change of use of two retail properties in Inchicore into two houses have been refused permission by Dublin City Council as they are located on an “undefended” flood plain.

The two properties are located on Emmet Road and applicant David Cambie’s plans included the change of use of the two properties from commercial/retail to residential.

The proposed change of use was to provide one end-of-terrace two-storey, two-bedroom dwelling and one mid-terrace two-storey, two-bedroom dwelling.

Also proposed was the demolition of the existing single-storey extensions to the rear of each property.

Proposed new single-storey extensions to the rear of each property including first-floor roof terrace area formed part of the plans.

All associated site works and alterations to the external elevations of each property to accommodate the proposed new extensions and internal layout were included.

On November 7, Dublin City Council decided to refuse permission for the change of use, as the subject site is located in an “undefended” flood zone.

“The proposal would generate an unjustifiable level of risk through the introduction of additional residents into the flood plain by way of a change of use from commercial/retail to residential (a highly vulnerable use type),” stated the council in its decision.

It further added that the proposal would “be prejudicial to public health and contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.”