High Park Convent Application

A planning application (4050/09) was submitted in November for the redevelopment of the site. This would include:
• The development of 150 apartments in 5 blocks of up to 5 storeys
• New single storey glass conservatory connecting the existing Convent building and church, with the church being developed into a communal facility with an internal mezzanine structure
The Council are seeking further information before a decision is made.
Meanwhile, the Council is proposing to designate the “Romanesque” Church and part of the convent which projects outward as protected structures. This was the site of one of the Magdalen laundries.

Centre for Blind Approved

St. Joseph’s planning application to redevelop their Drumcondra centre for the visually impaired has been approved with only small modifications. Key elements are:
• Therapy, Braille and vocational skills building
• A new pre school and primary school
• A new entrance will open on Grace Park road to the south of the Chapel
• 359 apartments in 14 blocks of up to 8 storeys
A “metro north levy” of €933,624 has to be paid by the developer to Dublin City Council. This applies to all future developments in the metro north area.

Stardust Application Refused (4565/09)

A plan to develop the old Stardust site into a private member’s club, with 3 private games rooms, and a bar and kitchen, has been refused by Dublin City Council. The application sparked controversy with several objections being lodged. Given the tragic history of this site, there was huge concern about the appropriateness of the development. The council refused permission due to the likelihood of noise and disturbance, and incompatibility with the development plan.