Taking green spaces will ‘suffocate’ future generations
By Mary Dennehy
AS DECISION day approaches for the proposed development of two housing schemes in Springfield, residents ask South Dublin County Council to not “suffocate” future generations in concrete jungles by taking away the community’s green spaces.
This week, more than 450 people attended another community meeting concerning proposed plans to build two housing schemes for older people in Springfield, which are earmarked for green spaces in Fernwood and Maplewood.
An artist impression of the original plans for Maplewood
Since the proposed developments went to public consultation in July, hundreds of residents from Springfield have united to save the two green spaces, with community meetings and public demonstrations taking place.
This Monday, October 8, a report, compiled following the Part 8 public consultation stage, is scheduled to be brought before South Dublin County Council – and a vote held.
The Echo has learned that three leading issues identified by residents have been addressed by the council, resulting in design plans being amended.
At a pre-Part 8 consultation meeting last week, which was attended by councillors, residents and members of Cluid Housing, the council confirmed that the number of units across both projects has been reduced from 53 to 40 to address issues raised.
These changes are due to be confirmed when the report is published.
Brian Nolan, Chair of St Mark’s Residents Association, told The Echo: “These proposals are for people over 55 and residents don’t have a difficulty with it, social housing is not a problem… it’s taking the last remaining amenity in the area [that’s the problem].
“Springfield has nothing, we don’t have a swing or a slide and there’s almost 2,000 houses.
“We’re just looking for the right balance here, something that works for people.
“40 homes in a postage stamp area is not going to solve anything.
“We all need somewhere to play, somewhere to relax as a community.”
Residents out protesting in Fernwood in August
He added: “Residents have not been listened to and councillors are not engaging with us.
“Democracy is being ignored here.”
As reported in The Echo during the summer, South Dublin County Council is planning to build its first ever dedicated housing schemes for older people – which includes units in Fernwood and Maplewood Road.
In an interview with The Echo, a council spokesperson said that the schemes aim to provide suitable and supported accommodation for older residents looking to downsize – which would free-up three-bed homes for families on the housing list.
In a letter to the Editor this week, resident John Whelan said: “Our elected representatives have to make difficult decisions sometimes and our council have to decide on projects that make a difference to our community and come up with solutions to our housing crisis.
“However, I feel they are making a huge error in attempting to push on with this project to the detriment of our future generations.
“I believe the council and the councillors if they vote to proceed and to build on these valuable open green spaces will end up suffocating our future generations in concrete jungles.”
Gerry Stockil, Chair of Tallaght Community Council (TCC), which is supporting residents, said: “Access to safe green space for young and old forms part of a sustainable community life and is vital for well-being in urban living.
“Walking the dog, kicking around a football in a safe distance from home are vital in today’s hectic world.” The proposed developments are due for decision at South Dublin County Council’s October meeting this Monday.
WATCH:
TAGS Tallaght
