In 2016 new planning legislation was introduced whereby an application could be submitted directly to An Bord Pleanála bypassing the local authority. This applied in the case of Strategic Housing Developments (SHDs), developments of 100 units or more. I believe that this is a totally undemocratic process whereby the residents in a particular area are denied the opportunity to make a submission to their local council’s planning department. In my opinion, this encourages developers to apply for larger numbers of smaller dwellings which are totally unsuitable to live in permanently. Many of these proposed developments are build-to-rent schemes that do not contribute in any way in solving the housing crisis.
For the last number of years, I have called for the ageing population in her area to be acknowledged and for the recognition of adequate planning in relation to downsizing. There are many residents in the Stillorgan area who are living in large family homes with a number of bedrooms and big gardens. Some of them survive on pensions and have difficulty in affording the crippling property tax that was imposed on them a few years ago. Downsizing would provide an ideal solution and free up their homes for younger families but there is nowhere for them to go. They have ties with their parish and their community, as well as health services. We need a more holistic approach to planning and this has been ignored, to date.
We need a planning and housing policy that is tailored to the needs of the local community i.e. enabling downsizing in areas where the over 65s cohort are a growing percentage of the population or the prioritisation of childcare facilities and schools in areas with younger populations.
Stillorgan and the surrounding areas have seen many changes in the last few years and much more change is ahead. I have organised meetings with residents and attended events where they expressed their concerns. I also made a number of contributions to the Stillorgan Local Area Plan that will enhance the area. (Photo is with a copy of Stillorgan LAP in front of the soon to be demolished Leisureplex and Bowling Alley.)
There has been much development in Mount Merrion and the surrounding areas over the last number of years. Whilst I welcome development I believe the needs of the locality should be taken into account before decisions are made. I support in principle the proposed student accommodation in neighbouring UCD and met with relevant staff to outline some concerns expressed by residents.
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In the last Council term, I was a member of the DLRCC Culture, Community and Ageing Strategic Policy Committee. I have raised the issue of long delays when processing grants for home improvements for the elderly at this committee. Many families find themselves in a situation where chair lifts or downstairs bathrooms may have to be installed to assist a family member.
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