An Bord Pleanála has begun hearing an appeal against a compulsory purchase order of a two-acre square in Ranelagh in Dublin.
The square was bought by businessman, Noel O'Gara, last December.
In January, Mr O'Gara locked access to the square that had previously been used by the public. He is now seeking to develop an underground car park, a creche and gym on the site.
Dublin City Council is in turn trying to compulsorily purchase the land from Mr O'Gara.
Giving evidence to the planning appeals board this morning, Geraldine O'Mahony, a senior executive planner with the council, said the area had been zoned so that recreational space should be protected. She said the southeast area of the city had less open space than other areas.
She described the square as of notable character and surrounded by protected houses. She added that any new building, including a creche or car park, would not be appropriate.
Opposing the order, Mr O'Gara said the square was private property and was never public. He claimed that Dublin City Council was using 'big brother muscle' to steal the land from him.
Mr O'Gara said a car park on the site could provide parking for up to 600 cars in an area near the city centre that had inadequate parking.
He also claimed that the development would be in keeping with the current zoning of the land as it would include sporting facilities like a gym, as well as a creche and tea-rooms.
