The developers of contentious plans for a seven storey senior living 'build to rent' scheme for Ringsend in Dublin 4 are contesting Dublin City Council’s decision to refuse permission.
The Council last month refused planning permission for the 30-unit scheme which attracted over 65 objections including one from School Principal of St Patrick’s Girls National School in Ringsend, Anne Smith who raised child protection concerns if the scheme was to proceed.
In a two-page objection lodged with the Council on behalf of the school's Board of Management, Ms Smith stated if planning permission is granted "residents and workmen will be able to look into our school-yard as well as into our school building - possibly taking photos and videos of our school children and staff".
In a comprehensive refusal, the City Council stated that the proposal constitutes overdevelopment of the site.
Now, applicants, Glencarra Ringsend Ltd have lodged an appeal against the refusal with An Bord Pleanala.
Director at planning consultancy, Tom Phillips & Co, Stephen Barrett has told An Bord Pleanala that the proposal, to be operated by an approved housing body, is an appropriate and high quality development which will contribute towards the specific housing needs of senior residents in Ringsend and Dublin City.
Mr Barrett said that the scheme "will provide much needed independent elderly living units within the Ringsend area" and "is an ideal location for such a scheme".
In an accompanying letter in the appeal, the Director of Corporate Operations of Home Instead, Michael Wright has told the appeals board, "We believe that this model of Senior Living with assistance provided by the private sector and funded by the HSE is the only way that large numbers of assisted living facilities can be delivered quickly and efficiently".
Home Instead provides support packages to older persons who qualify for HSE funding and Mr Wright stated that the Ringsend scheme and the support proposed "would be an alternative to a nursing home placement for older persons who qualify for a full home care package".
Mr Wright argues that "Senior Living offers a real and tangible alternative to nursing homes and in-hospital care and represents a massive financial saving to the State".
A decision is due to be made on the appeal next year.
