Plans to turn industrial unit into gym and café in Riverview

AN APPLICATION for the change of use of Unit B6, Riverview Business Park, from light industrial use to a gym and ancillary café has been submitted to South Dublin County Council for review.

The unit is located within the Red Cow Character District, and the land on which it sits is indicated as part of the ‘Grand Canal Linear Park’ area under the Non-Statutory Strategic Framework.

The application was submitted in July, and SDCC requested additional information in September relating to parking provision, signage and hours of operation.

SDCC noted that although “particulars submitted refer to the provision of ‘associated external signage’ as part of the subject development”, the plans submitted do not specifically indicate any proposals or details relating to any new or proposed signage elements on the unit.

In terms of parking provision, the original plans failed to include the provision of parking or set-down areas to serve the development, which the applicant was required to submit in accordance with the 2022-2028 SDCC Development Plan.

The applicant was also requested to submit details in relation to the proposed hours of operation for the gym and café unit, as the original submission failed to include these details.

Three third-party submissions were received regarding the development, in relation to parking, traffic and access, noise and ownership.

Concerns were also raised over the impact of the development on the amenities of adjoining occupiers and orderly estate management and “general nuisance to other operators in the business park.”

Unit B6 is a mid-terrace commercial unit, covering an area of approximately 391sqm and forming part of a larger block of units with access to the common areas, internal estate roads and shared car parking.

Neighbouring unit occupiers include a mix of office, warehouse, distribution and light industrial uses.

Noise concerns that were raised through third-party submissions relate to the possibility of amplified music, instructor-led classes, fitness equipment, weights and increased customer activity throughout the day and evening that may disrupt neighbouring businesses.

The issues raised in the submissions and observations lodged in respect of this application have been taken into consideration in the overall assessment of the proposed development.

SDCC’s Planning Department is due to make a decision on this application in October, following the submission of the additional information by the applicant.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme