Two-storey extension plans approved for Dunnes Stores

PLANS for a two-storey extension to Kilnamanagh Shopping Centre and the change of use of a retail premises to a gym and health centre have been approved by South Dublin County Council.

The planning application was submitted by Better Value Unlimited Company, with an address at the Dunnes Stores head office on South Great George’s Street in the city centre, last July.

The plans include a two-storey extension along the shopping centre’s eastern elevation, the change of use of a former retail premises, and a reduction in car-parking spaces.

The change of use concerns the former Dunnes Stores textiles sales area on the first floor, which is to be extended and subdivided into two units to provide a gym and a health centre.

The first unit will extend to approximately 1,411 sq. m and will be used as a health centre, while the second unit will extend to 790 sq. m and will house a gym.

Other works in the plans include the demolition of the southern lobby entrance into Dunnes Stores, and for it to be replaced with a new glazed lobby entrance.

A new walkway canopy is to be constructed at the north and south elevations of the centre, while there is to be new ramped access adjacent to the existing pedestrian entrance steps on Mayberry Road.

Parking will be affected by the plans, which include the reconfiguration of the existing entrance to Treepark Road and a revised parking layout.

The revised parking layout will be primarily at the east side of the building to allow for an adjusted, one-way system around the centre, which will lead to a reduction in parking spaces.

South Dublin County Council granted permission for the plans on November 18 last.