‘Dramatic’ influx of rats around former Jacob’s site prompts residents into talks with Amazon

By Laura Lyne

AMAZON has sought to alleviate concerns of residents in Kilnamanagh as it continues its development for the former Jacob’s site on the Belgard Road.

The site, which is due to become the third data centre for the global online shopping company in Tallaght, has in recent weeks seen the former Jacob’s factory torn down to only its metal supports.

Throughout the construction process, which is expected to take place over the next 18 months, around 100 contractors are expected to be on site.

When work has been completed on the site, it is expected to house 30 staff on a 24/7 basis, with no more than a dozen people expected to be on site at any one time.

Due to the works, concerns have been raised by residents in Kilnamanagh relating to an increase in rats in the Redwood Walk area, which fronts onto Mayberry Road.

A number of residents have said that there has been a “dramatic” increase in the number of rats in the area, with concerns that the problem could increase in the coming months.

Concerns have also been raised about the emergency exit from the Amazon site that will exit onto Mayberry Road, which already suffers from traffic congestion during peak times.

In recent days, contact between Amazon and local residents was established through AAA councillor Mick Murphy, who has been liaising with residents about their concerns.

The Echo understands that Amazon has agreed to tackle the rats, and has requested that the site contractors arrange for pest control to try and contain the issue during the ongoing demolition works.

They have also assured residents that the emergency exit onto the Mayberry Road is expected to be used sparingly during construction and will be used only in cases of emergency when the site is fully operational.

Plans for the site will see Amazon re-develop the 20,892 sq m Jacob’s building for electronic operations, mechanical plant rooms and support areas that include loading bays, stores, offices and welfare facilities.

Amazon previously constructed two data centres in Tallaght on the Greenhills Road, located at the site of the former Tesco warehouse and the former Shinko building.