Madam, - Michael Smith's criticism of Dublin City Councillors' decision on institutional land (February 2nd) may have been premature.
The new zoning, while allowing residential development to be considered on these lands, has three important safeguards built in. First, a quarter of the site must be made available for public open space or community facilities. Second, any application in relation to any significant lands must be preceded by an overall plan for the entire site which should ensure that the existing sporting and recreational facilities are protected. Third, this plan has to be approved by the councillors.
This decision won the support of all of the political parties on the council because it took account of the legitimate arguments raised in the submissions of the religious institutions and dealt with the City Manager's concerns, while at the same time it recognised the vital role these lands can play in catering for sustainable communities and providing vital amenities. Finally, it is unique because it builds in a guarantee that local communities, through their local representatives, will have a role in shaping the local plans for significant sites in their area.
This is a positive step forward and the strong consensus that was reached augurs well for the subsequent debates that may arise when local area plans are formulated. - Yours, etc.,
Cllr OISÍN QUINN,
Rathmines,
Dublin 6.
Madam, - It's a pity Michael Smith didn't bother to lift the phone to those of us who could have given him the facts. Our vote last Monday night means that before planning permission can be considered on zoned institutional land, a local area plan must be prepared designating 25 per cent of the site for open space or community facilities.
This is not the socialist utopia that Michael might wish for us, but for those of us toiling in Dublin City Council it is great progress in the interest of ordinary Dubliners. - Yours, etc.,
Cllr MARY FREEHILL, Grove Road, DUBLIN 6.