Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy should take cognisance of developments that are currently under way, such as the Poolbeg site. It will be the highest density residential development ever in Ireland. It will comprise 3,500 units on a medium-sized site. Several very tall buildings will be part of the scheme and will be factored into the overall design, taking account of the needs of the community and so on. That needs to be done on many other sites. I have strongly indicated to Dublin City Council in particular that it should be more ambitious in regard to building height restrictions. That can now be seen in the master planning of strategic development zones. If there is a need to legislate after examining the forthcoming report on the costings, potential problems and limitations involved in the building of apartment complexes, I will do so. Local authorities should show initiative because it is very difficult to legislate in this area and also avoid the one-size-fits-all approach which can lead to problems in some areas.

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