People Before Profit representatives, TD Gino Kenny and Cllr Madeleine Johansson, have formally submitted observations on the planning application SD24A/0221W by Hollyville Investments Ltd for a major development at The Silver Granite pub and car park in Palmerstown. The application outlines plans for a 5-storey, mixed-use building including a gastro pub, retail units, 43 apartments, and other amenities. While People Before Profit welcomes development to address housing shortages, the representatives voiced serious concerns regarding privacy, family suitability, childcare provision, and public transport in their submission to South Dublin County Council.
One of the primary concerns is the potential for overlooking of existing private homes and gardens in the neighbouring Oakcourt Grove. The proposed balconies and windows would directly overlook these properties, significantly impacting residents’ privacy and quality of life. “We must ensure that new developments respect the existing community and maintain the privacy that residents rightly expect in their own homes,” stated Cllr Madeleine Johansson. The representatives also highlighted that the entrance to some family units would be situated near the proposed outdoor seating area of the gastro pub, which could result in noise disturbances and exposure to smoking, making it an unsuitable living environment for families.
Kenny and Johansson further expressed concerns about the lack of childcare facilities in the development, despite an increasing need given the number of proposed new residential units in Palmerstown. Additionally, they stressed the importance of retaining and upgrading the existing bus stop to support sustainable transport options for future residents, given limited parking provisions. “We need to ensure this development is truly integrated into the community and meets the needs of residents—both current and future,” said Gino Kenny TD. The representatives urge the planning authority to consider these observations seriously to ensure the best possible outcome for Palmerstown’s residents.
