Permission has been granted for almost 500 new homes in Douglas

Conditional planning permission has been granted for a large scale development in the Douglas area by An Bord Pleanála, despite some initial concerns regarding storm water management at the site.

472 residential units, which will be divided into 234 three and four bedroom houses and 238 apartments ranging from one to three bedrooms have been given the green light.

The works, being undertaken by Carin Homes also include a creche with 75 places, the provision of a central spine of parkland which follows the course of the Moneygurney Stream, as well as an extension to the Ballybrack greenway, and a number of linked amenity areas.

20 submissions were made on the development which takes in Castletreasure/Maryborough (townlands), and Carr’s Hill/Carrigaline Road (R609) Douglas by residents, councillors and businesses in the area.

Issues such as the design and scale of the development not being in keeping with the area were highlighted. It was also suggested that the assessment of flood risk to nearby areas had not been adequately evaluated.

In her initial report, Senior Planning Inspector Una O’Neill raised concerns regarding water drainage on the site, and an oral hearing was held to hear the applicants' resolutions to the issue.

Following the hearing, the decision was made that the application could proceed as it would not seriously damage the residential or visual amenities of the area or of property in the vicinity.

It was also agreed the development would be acceptable in terms of urban design and as well as in terms of traffic and pedestrian safety and convenience, and stormwater management.

A significant number of conditions are attached to the permission. These include stipulations such as ensuring the childcare facility will be in use prior to the occupation of the 75th residential unit.

The developers must also include charging points for electric vehicles, while all of the service cables must be run underground within the site.

Ducting will also be provided to facilitate the provision of broadband infrastructure within the proposed development.

The project is due to move forward in four phases, the first of which will incorporate 94 units.