Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

The purpose of the Bill is to amend the provisions of the Planning and Development Act 2000, dealing with unfinished estates. I welcome and support the Bill.

Section 2 is important. I wish to record my support for residents, home-owners and tenants on this important issue. I have always challenged wildcat developments and developers who leave unfinished estates or do not do their job in a professional manner. It is expensive enough nowadays to buy a home without having to put up with this type of nonsense.

Many of our citizens and residents have major concerns about planning and development particularly following the tribunals and the corruption of the planning process. These concerns still exist and many feel these revelations are only the tip of the iceberg. I mention this because we, as public representatives, have to be vigilant about sleaze and corruption in politics. It has damaged politics and politicians are constantly getting the wrap on this issue.

In my constituency I have always challenged wildcat developments in Clontarf, Killester, Artane and Drumcondra. We need houses and developments that are in tune with the local areas and the local environment. For example, I have major concerns about a proposed development at Seapark in Clontarf by Sherborough Enterprises. The 55 new apartments in Seapark along with the apartments in Mount Prospect Lawns and Red Court will lead to a major increase in traffic in Mount Prospect Avenue. This road is already used as a rat-run to escape traffic congestion on Clontarf Road.

The developer has made no proposals to protect and retain the trees. The seven storey building does not respect the view of neighbouring blocks and will lead to a reduction in natural light. It will also lead to a reduction in recreation facilities. There is concern that it will lead to an excessive reduction of trees which are important landscape features. The building will conflict with the building line on Mount Prospect Avenue. The new buildings do not respect the character of the existing architecture and do not enhance the character of Seapark and the surrounding community.

I raise these issues to highlight the need for quality and sensible planning and urge all Deputies to support this progressive legislation.

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