Breaking News: A significant shift is underway in Dublin's housing landscape! Dublin City Council has just given the green light to Cairn Homes for a massive €295 million apartment project on the former RTÉ lands in Montrose, Donnybrook. This is a big deal, and here's why…
The approved plan involves a substantial 510-apartment scheme, a revised version of a previous proposal. The council's planners are optimistic, stating the changes have resulted in a "higher quality residential amenity." But here's where it gets interesting: the new scheme has ditched the 'build-to-rent' apartments that were part of the original plan.
So, what does this new development look like? It's a mix of apartments designed to cater to different needs: 326 two-bed apartments, 125 one-bed apartments, 51 three-bed apartments, and eight studios, all spread across eight apartment blocks. Notably, three of these blocks will reach 10 storeys.
As part of the approval, Cairn Homes is required to contribute €5.43 million towards public infrastructure. This development marks a significant investment, coming more than eight years after Cairn Homes acquired the land from RTÉ for €107.5 million in June 2017.
Interestingly, the latest proposal faced far less opposition than previous plans. Only one objection was lodged, in contrast to the strong local resistance seen before. Brian and Orla Murphy from Stillorgan Rd, Donnybrook, D4, voiced concerns, arguing the development's scale and density, even in its revised form, constitute "excessive overdevelopment." They emphasized the need for a plan that fosters a long-term community. They also opposed the previous scheme.
This raises a crucial question: Is this development a step forward in addressing Dublin's housing needs, or does it represent an overreach? What are your thoughts on the balance between maximizing development and preserving community values? Share your opinions in the comments below!
