Anti Monkstown Ring Road

Breach of Consolidated EU Directive on Environmental Impact Assessment

2007-12-13T13:33:00.000Z

http://www.savetara.com/Download/EP_Petition_Guckian.pdf.

Breach of Consolidated EU Directive on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA),
85/337/EEC [Amended], in relation to certain Irish road schemes
The following Irish Local Authorities have been found to have breached Article 5 of the Consolidated EU
Directive (consideration of alternatives) in respect of the following road schemes: Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown
Co. Council (proposed Monkstown Ring Road) Galway Co. Council (N6 Motorway) Laois Co. Council (M7 /
M8 Motorway) Meath Co. Council (proposed M3 Motorway).
In all these cases the EISes for the projects interpreted alternatives purely in terms of alternative routes for
the road scheme, instead of alternatives to the scheme itself, for example meeting transport demand via
more sustainable modes such as rail or coach. The correct meaning of alternatives is clearly explained in the
Guidelines on EIA (EU Guidelines on Scoping for EIA: http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment/eia/eiaguidelines/
g-scoping-full-text.pdf.
These clearly outline how alternatives to road schemes should include consideration of other modes
(alternative ways of meeting demand; alternative designs and processes). Recent research carried out by
the undersigned into the EISes for the above projects has shown the project developers did not properly and
correctly consider alternatives to the schemes. Unfortunately, all these schemes have been approved by the
Irish planning consent authority (An Bord Pleanala). The undersigned cannot seek Judicial Review of these
decisions because the Irish legal system imposes onerous costs on the individual, in itself a breach of Article
10(a) of the Directive.
The undersigned makes representations to the Petitions Committee to investigate this breach of the
Directive as a matter of urgency.
Brian Guckian Rail & Integrated Transport Researcher, August 3rd, 2006.
Commission of the European Communities,
(for the attention of the Secretary-General),
B-1049 Brussels,
BELGIUM.

Compensation to Jackson Way Properties

2007-12-13T09:37:00.000Z

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%BAn_Laoghaire-Rathdown_County_Council

Compensation to Jackson Way Properties
Agreement[1], subject to confirmation of ownership, was reached on compensation to be paid by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council to Jackson Way Properties in the sum of €12,860,700 for the compulsory purchase in October 1998 of its freehold interest in the lands (subject to certain wayleaves and rights of way), adjoining the route of the South Eastern Motorway Scheme (M 50). The Council agreed to pay costs and expenses properly incurred by Jackson Way Properties in relation to preparation and submission of its claim.
The Award total is broken down as follows;
Land Taken €9,691,000
Injurious Affection €2,296,700
Disturbance €873,000
It is now the view of the Criminal Assets Bureau that €4.2 million of this award represents the present value of corrupt enrichment by the property owners.
A company called Paisley Park Investments Ltd were registered as full owners in 1992 and the land was transferred to Jasckson Way Properties in 1993, the beneficial owners of which are believed by the CAB to be arcade owner James Kennedy and solicitor John Coldwell.

Wikipedia: Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council

2007-12-13T09:34:00.000Z

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%BAn_Laoghaire-Rathdown_County_Council

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council
(Irish: Comhairle Chontae Dhún Laoghaire-Ráth an Dúin) is one of three local authorities in the greater Dublin area that caters for a population of approximately 192,000 persons. Its electoral wards include Ballybrack, Blackrock, Dundrum, Dún Laoghaire, Stillorgan, Glencullen and Stillorgan. Twenty eight members serve on the Council.
Local authorities in Ireland are local branches of the Irish Government responsible for the provision of an extensive range of public services in your area. In addition, local authorities promote the interests of your local community, including the social, economic, environmental, recreational, cultural, community or general development of your area.

Criminal Assets Bureau Investigation, Jackson Way Properties Ltd

2007-12-13T09:30:00.000Z

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%C3%BAn_Laoghaire-Rathdown_County_Council
Criminal Assets Bureau Investigation
The CAB successfully obtained a High Court order on July 26, 2006 freezing land assets of 107 acres at Carrickmines, County Dublin owned by Jackson Way Properties Ltd and preventing their sale[2]. CAB contended that these lands had been rezoned on December 16, 1997 by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council from agricultural to industrial after Frank Dunlop bribed and made corrupt payments to councillors to secure their support in the rezoning vote. That vote increased the value of just 17 acres of the property from €8 million to €61 million. CAB has interviewed and took statements from Frank Dunlop and will use him as a witness against a number of property developers.
The lands in question have been the subject of investigation by The Mahon Tribunal in 2003 and 2004.
If this case succeeds the potential money realised by CAB will be substantially more than the yield from gangland criminals since 1996. Other similar cases are likely to ensue involving lands investigated by The Mahon Tribunal.

The Big Fight Ahern v Kenny

2007-05-18T10:18:00.000+01:00

The Big Fight Ahern v Kenny
Official Thread

http://www.politics.ie/viewtopic.php?t=20797&start=0&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=

Bertie 48%
Enda 36%

Election 2007

2007-05-18T10:13:00.000+01:00

Irish Politicians...Check this out its a must!!
A link with lots of current political content regarding the upcomming election

http://www.irishpoliticians.com/links.php

The Election Book

2007-05-18T10:10:00.000+01:00

"The Election Book"

With The Constituencies by Rachael English and Nick Coffey by Tom McGuire (ed)

http://www.obrien.ie/book703.cfm

Your essential guide to the inside workings of politics, political procedures and elections in Ireland, from Ireland's leading commentators. Let RTÉ's political experts take you through the roles of: the tallymen, the campaign trail, the spin doctors, financing the elections, passing time in seanad, the leaders, the long counts and the political parties (big and small) and the Independents.
With a constituency-by-constituency guide to the issues, personalities and local intrigue of the 2007 general election.

Road Transport Association...600 truck traffic disruption on M50

2007-05-07T21:08:00.000+01:00

Haulier protest to disrupt M50 Monday, 7 May 2007 20:54
http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0507/hauliers.html

Gardaí have warned motorists in Dublin to expect major traffic disruption tomorrow as up to 600 truckers are expected to take part in a protest against the Heavy Goods Vehicles ban in Dublin city centre.
The protest, which is being organised by a new group called the Road Transport Association, will begin at 5am on the northbound and southbound lanes of the M50 and at Dublin Port.
The Road Transport Association say the HGV ban is forcing them to use an already overburdened M50.
Advertisement
They say the tolls, extra mileage and traffic congestion on the motorway means their costs are increasing while their productivity is decreasing.
An estimated 600 trucks will converge at three locations from 5am in the morning and begin moving 30 minutes later.
The first group will start at Finglas and will drive south on the M50 to the Ballymount exit before turning around and going towards the M1/M50 interchange.
The second group will also travel on the M50 from Citywest to M1/M50 interchange.
The third group will drive from the Point Depot to Dublin Port and back.
They say the protest will not stop until they get progress.
The AA say there could be delays of up to one hour on the M50 tomorrow and are advising motorists to leave early.

McDowell 'utterly rejects' Kenny's comments

2007-05-07T20:56:00.000+01:00

McDowell 'utterly rejects' Kenny's comments Monday, 7 May 2007 20:53

http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0507/election.html
There have been sharp exchanges between the Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny and the Tánaiste Michael McDowell over leaks from the Mahon Tribunal about the personal finances of the Taoiseach.
Mr McDowell said that Mr Kenny's suggestions that he had been responsible for the leaks to the media were 'beneath contempt'.
Mr McDowell has said he 'utterly rejects' any suggestion that he was involved in leaking Mahon Tribunal documents about the Taoiseach's personal finances to the media.
Advertisement
As he wound up his manifesto launch this morning, Enda Kenny claimed that if the Taoiseach wanted to know who was putting out information from Tribunals he only had to look across the cabinet table.
Later on the RTÉ Radio's News At One, he confirmed he had meant Michael McDowell, prompting a furious response from the PD leader.
This afternoon Enda Kenny's spokesman said he did not intend to allege the Justice Minister had been responsible for the original leak from the Tribunal about the Taoiseach's financial affairs but had been referring to events of the last week when Mr McDowell's adviser had been passed material relating to the inquiry.

Mr Bush blundered his way through his speech

2007-05-07T20:47:00.000+01:00

Bush Blunder: One Is Slightly Amused

http://news.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30000-1264407,00.html

By Royal Correspondent Sarah Hughes Updated: 18:28, Monday May 07, 2007
The Queen has spoken of the special relationship between the US and Britain as she met President George Bush at the White House.

Mr Bush looks to the Queen while cracking a joke

But it was Mr Bush who had everyone laughing as he blundered his way through his speech - and then bailed his way out with a sharp one-liner.
He gave the wrong date for the American bicentenary.
The crowd began to laugh and the President delivered a quip about the Queen's reaction.
"You helped our nation to celebrate its bicentennial in 17....1976," the leader said.
He paused, turned to the Queen and added: "You gave me a look that only a mother could give a child."
More than 7,000 people were in attendance as the British and American national anthems were played, followed by a 21-gun salute.
The Duke of Edinburgh and First Lady Laura Bush stood by as the monarch and American leader took their places on the small platform, decorated in the red, white and blue colours
The Queen did not directly mention the Iraq war in her speech, but it was clear she was referring to the strains it had put on the relationship.
"A state visit provides us with a brief opportunity to step back from our current preoccupations to reflect on the very essence of our relationship," she said.

Sarkozy takes over from Jacques Chirac on 16 May

2007-05-07T20:39:00.000+01:00

France looks to new Sarkozy era

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/6631813.stm

Mr Sarkozy appeared relaxed as he left a Paris hotel on MondayFrance is preparing to enter a new political era, one day after choosing right-wing Nicolas Sarkozy to be the country's next president.
Previously a divisive cabinet minister, Mr Sarkozy won a clear election victory over Socialist opponent Segolene Royal.
Mr Sarkozy has pledged to boost the economy by creating jobs, liberalise employment laws, be tough on crime and control immigration.
He officially takes over from Jacques Chirac on 16 May.
Before then, campaign aides say Mr Sarkozy, 52, will spend a few days resting at an undisclosed location to finalise his government line-up and policy priorities.
On Monday, Mr Sarkozy revealed that his choice of prime minister would be Francois Fillon, who is currently Mr Sarkozy's senior political adviser.
Mr Sarkozy's remarks came during a telephone conversation with British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
The size of Sunday's election victory - a resounding win by 53% to 47% in a two-horse race, with a turnout of 85% - gives the new president real authority, correspondents say.
"We have to act, the French people expect it. They have given him a real mandate," chief of staff Claude Gueant told French radio.
France has given me everything, and now it is my turn to give back to France what France has given me
Nicolas Sarkozy
Sarkozy victory speech
World reacts to Sarkozy win
What next for Sarkozy?
Mr Sarkozy is expected to quickly name a 15-strong cabinet for the start of his five-year term in office.
The first key hurdle for the new president will be nationwide parliamentary elections in June.
Securing a workable majority in the National Assembly would greatly ease the passage of Mr Sarkozy's planned reforms.
Early polling for those elections puts Mr Sarkozy's UMP party ahead of the Socialists by about six percentage points, the Reuters news agency reported.
Ms Royal's defeat was the Socialists' third successive presidential election loss, and the party is now expected to face calls for internal change.
Reform pledge
Mr Sarkozy has promised to try to reform France to face the challenges of the 21st century, and creating jobs is at the top of his agenda.

SARKOZY: KEY POLICIES
Exempt overtime (above 35 hours) from taxes and social security charges
Minimum sentences for repeat offenders, tougher sentences for juveniles
Selective immigration that favours arrival of qualified workers
Increase taxes on polluters
Oppose Turkish EU membership
He has pledged to bring unemployment down from 8.3% to below 5% by 2012.
During his first 100 days in office he is also expected to propose tax cuts and table legislation to keep trains running during strikes.
While he has said he will not end France's 35-hour working week, Mr Sarkozy proposes allowing staff to work overtime, as well as cutting restrictions on hiring and firing staff.
Known as a divisive figure from his years as a strict interior minister, Mr Sarkozy appears intent on a tough approach to law and order, favouring minimum sentences for repeat offenders and tougher sentences for juveniles.
He struck a conciliatory tone in his victory speech on Sunday evening, telling crowds in Paris and those watching around the country that he would be president "of all the French".
Himself the son of a Hungarian immigrant, Mr Sarkozy said: "France has given me everything, and now it is my turn to give back to France what France has given me."

HAVE YOUR SAY
I'd like to say congratulations and good luck to President-elect Sarkozy
Eric Loadman, USA
Send us your comments
Media hope for unity
Nevertheless, there were minor clashes with protesters in Paris and some other cities after the result was announced.
Several hundred rioters in the Place de la Bastille threw bottles and stones at police, shouting "Sarko-fascist".
Two police officers were injured in Nantes, where 1,000 demonstrators turned to violence. Arrests were made in half-a-dozen cities, but the trouble soon subsided.
The election result was widely welcomed outside France, with the US, EU, China and Japan offering congratulations to Mr Sarkozy.

The Turkish prime minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was more cautious, saying he hoped Mr Sarkozy would review his opposition to Turkey joining the EU.

Calls for Taoiseach to issue public statement

2007-05-01T20:57:00.000+01:00

There have been calls for Taoiseach Bertie Ahern to make a personal statement on his finances.

The calls follow the revelation that Mr Ahern's former partner received a large sum in cash in the 90s which he says went towards stamp duty and renovations to his rented house.

The Greens were the first to raise the issue this morning as leader Trevor Sargent launched his party's tax policy.

Mr Sargent said the issue needed to be clarified. He claimed the public good would be better served by transparency, rather than by hiding behind the tribunals.

Labour leader Pat Rabbitte has said he was happy to let the Mahon Tribunal investigate what he described as 'the Taoiseach's byzantine financial affairs'.
He added that he had never heard of stamp duty being paid on a rented house.

Sinn Féin's Dublin Central candidate Mary Lou McDonald also said Mr Ahern should answer any outstanding questions about his finances.
She said the electorate had a right to know all the information about monies he or his former partner received.

But Fianna Fáil Dublin West Candidate Brian Lenihan said Mr Ahern had already made a personal statement last October and the only new information related to a private citizen who was a good friend of the Taoiseach.

PD leader Michael McDowell has said he will not turn the election campaign into a mini tribunal on the Taoiseach's finances when the Mahon inquiry had decided that it would be unfair to conduct hearings ahead of 24 May.

Mr McDowell said he was satisfied that the Irish people had been governed well in the last five years and the real question was would that continue after an election that was not about what happened in Manchester in the 90s.

Mr Ahern repeated today that he will deal with the matter at the Mahon Tribunal.

http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0501/sargentt.html

Election poster threat to road safety

2007-05-01T20:41:00.000+01:00

Complaints over posters blocking signs

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has issued a warning about pedestrian safety and traffic signs being obscured by election posters.

The RSA warning follows the unseemly haste with which election workers from every party strapped multiple posters to lamp posts in the hours following the Taoiseach's dawn visit to Áras an Uachtaráin to dissolve the Dáil.

Lithuanian workers put up election posters in Dublin on Saturday.

RSA chief executive Noel Brett said the competitive jockeying for prime position adjacent to major roads and junctions is creating problems for motorists and pedestrians and is leading to complaints.

Mr Brett said his office had received three formal complaints by yesterday afternoon and numerous queries and expressions of concern.

"The signage on our roads, whether put there by the National Roads Authority, local authorities or the gardaí or construction and road repair teams, are there to help motorists stay safe," Mr Brett said.

"So it is vital that no action is taken that either obscures them or distracts road users from their content.

"The election posters are quite wide and quite large. People are contacting us concerned about the visibility of traffic signs and also the safety of pedestrians if these posters fall," he said.

Mr Brett said all the complaints have been referred on to the relevant local authority for investigation.

Under the Road Traffic Act of 1961 it is an offence to place any sign or notice that blocks a traffic sign.

Responsibility for enforcing this legislation rests with the local authorities through which the road travels.

Among the signs that cannot be blocked are those relating to speed limits, junction warnings, road works, and directions.

http://www.ireland.com/newspaper/breaking/2007/0501/breaking32.htm

Mount Etna Stages Light Show

2007-05-01T20:30:00.000+01:00

http://news.bbc.co.uk/player/nol/newsid_6610000/newsid_6610200/6610279.stm?bw=nb&mp=wm

Update on regional planning guidelines

2007-04-30T12:48:00.000+01:00

Non-National Roads-Metropolitan Area-Summary Table

http://209.85.165.104/search?q=cache:oi1DtedGlnwJ:www.rpg.ie/documents/JRMRoadsandPublicTransportInfrastructureUpdateNov06.doc+monkstown+ring+road&hl=en&amp;amp;amp;ct=clnk&cd=18&gl=ie

KEY:
Stage 1 = Project in planning/feasibility study underway
Stage 2 = Planning for scheme approved
Stage 3 = Tenders in preparation
Stage 4 = Currently under construction
Stage 5 = Project Completed.

DCC
East Wall Road
Stage 5 = Project Completed.

DCC
Macken Street Bridge
Stage 4 = Currently under construction

DCC
North King Street
Stage 5 = Project Completed.

FCC
Ongar Road
Stage 5 = Project Completed.

FCC
Outer Ring Road- Lucan to N2
Stage 1 = Project in planning/feasibility study underway

SDCC
Outer Ring Road- N7 to Lucan
Stage 4 = Currently under construction

DLR
Dun Laoghaire Port- Improve Access

DLR
Monkstown Ring Road
Stage 3 = Tenders in preparation

WCC
Greystones Southern Access
Stage 4 = Currently under construction

East Wall Road (Tolka Quay to Sheriff Street)
Scheme completed mid-2006

Macken Street Bridge
Tenders have been approved and initial groundworks have commenced. It is expected the Bridge will be open in September 2008.

North King Street
Road improvements completed.

Ongar Road
Road completed, opened in December 2005.

Outer Ring Road- Lucan to N2
This project is being undertaken in two phases. Phase 1 linking the N2 to the N3 is approved and will begin construction in 2007 with completion in 2008. Phase 2 links the N2 to the N4. This is currently at plan preparation stage.

Outer Ring Road- N7 to Lucan
Phase 1 (Adamstown to N7) completed and open since January 2005. Phase 2 (Adamstown to N4) is under construction and due for completion in September 2007.

Dun Laoghaire Port- Improve Access
This project requires a feasibility study which has yet to commence.

Monkstown Ring Road
This scheme was approved by An Bord Pleanala in June 2006. Tenders are under preparation. It is intended that construction will commence in early 2007 with a completion in 2008.

Greystones Southern Access
Southern Access road is completed. Works are due to commence on the Kilpedder Interchange where the Access road meets the N11.

Balbriggan Outer Relief Road
This route is currently under construction. The section from Whitehart Lane to Naul Road is due to start works early 2007, with the route scheduled for completion by 2009.

The Clock Is Ticking...eTenders Public Procurement

2007-04-30T12:36:00.000+01:00

Well.....The Clock Is Ticking

http://www.etenders.gov.ie/search/search_show.aspx?ID=APR081990

Title:
Monkstown Ring Road -S100842/OUT/05
Published by:
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council
Publication Date:
20/04/2007
Notice Deadline Date: 30/05/2007
Notice Dealine Time 12:00
Notice Type: Tender

Abstract:
The proposed contract for this scheme (the 'Contract') shall comprise the execution and completion of the Works including but not limited to the provision of the following:-
(1) Approximately 1.2 km of urban single carriageway from a junction at Carysfort Avenue to a junction at Deansgrange Road;
(2) 4 signalised junctions;
(3) Associated landscape and mitigation works;
(4) Associated fencing, safety barriers and drainage works;
(5) Associated signing and lighting works;
(6) Various earthworks;
(7) Various works including diversion of Authorities, Utilities and Service Providers and Private Utility Services;
(8) Various accommodation works including accesses to properties and lands; and(9) Traffic management for the entire scheme including all the required diversion and traffic warning signs.
(10) Demolition of 16 no. dwellings.CPV: 45200000

Section I: Contracting Authority

Name, Address and Contact Point(s)

Official Name: Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council
Postal Address: County Hall, Marine Road
Town: Dun Laoghaire
Postal Code: Co Dublin
Country: IE
Contact Point: Transportation For the attention of: W. Horgan
Telephone: 01-2054700
E-Mail: whorgan@dlrcoco.ie
Fax: 01-2054736
General Address of the contracting authority (URL) http://www.dlrcoco.ie Address of the Buyers Profile (URL) http://www.etenders.gov.ie/notice/AuthProfile.aspx?ID=AA01524

This report will be disturbing reading for many parents.

2007-01-26T11:43:00.000Z

Vehicle fumes 'stunt lung growth'

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6297701.stm

Exhaust fumes contain toxins.
Living too near a busy road could stunt a child's lung development,
US research involving 3,677 children.

Children who lived within 500 metres of a major road, such as a motorway, were shown to have lung impairment in tests.

Many children live and go to schools near to busy roads and could be at risk, the University of Southern California authors warn in The Lancet.

Experts already know toxic traffic fumes can trigger lung conditions such as asthma.

Stunted development

But the latest work suggests pollution can stop the lung from growing to its full potential - even in children who are otherwise healthy.

As background air quality did not alter the picture, children living in the countryside but close to a main road would also be at risk, the researchers add.

Children living close to big roads in cities with high levels of background air pollution were likely to be at a greater risk of lung problems however because of the double effect on their lungs, they suggest.

The study
They examined the lung function of 3,677 children annually from the age of 10 until they reached 18 when the lungs are fully developed.

Those who had lived within 500 metres of a motorway had much poorer lung function at the age of 18 than those who had lived 1,500 meters away or more, even when factors such as smoking in the home were taken into account.

Dr John Peters and colleagues say fumes from cars, bikes and lorries are to blame.
They recommend more work to identify the exact culprits in vehicle exhausts.

This report will be disturbing reading for many parents
Liberal democrat shadow health secretary Norman Lamb MP
Scientists do not know exactly how air pollution hampers lung development, but they believe lung inflammation in response to daily irritation by air pollutants may play a role.

Stephen Holgate, Medical Research Council clinical professor of immunopharmacology at the University of Southampton, said: "The finding builds on accumulating knowledge that the chemicals that are contained in the exhaust emissions of modern vehicles adversely effects the development of the lung through childhood.

"This is probably through their powerful oxidant effect on lung development in the first five to eight years of life."
Oxidative stress is caused by the toxic effect of highly reactive oxygen molecules, called free radicals, which damage cells and DNA.

Liberal Democrat health spokesman Norman Lamb said the work reinforced the case for reducing vehicle emissions.

"This report will be disturbing reading for many parents.
"As road usage continues to increase, this issue will have to be taken seriously."
A government spokeswoman said they would consider the evidence and whether further investigations were needed.

A letter from the Treasurer to Cllr. Marie Baker (FG)

2006-12-17T11:53:00.000Z

xx BROOKVILLE PARK, BLACKROCK, CO DUBLIN

Cllr. Marie Baker,
38 Avondale Lawn,
Blackrock,
Co. Dublin.
13 December 2006

Baker Marie (FG) mbaker@cllr.dlrcoco.ie

Dear Cllr. Baker,

Over the last couple of days I have had distressed and irate neighbours in my area call to my door and hand me Christmas Cards that were sent to them by you.

As you are fully aware you and Eugene Regan canvassed, lobbied and subsequently voted FOR the Monkstown Ring Road in spite of huge local opposition.

As you are also aware, per your own EIS Study, this road will have severely detrimental effect,"........... in terms of noise, health & safety, visually" on the residents of Brookville/Rowanbyrn.

Our residents are extremely worried; those who-have been trying to sell their houses have found it impossible to, and indeed their houses have devalued up to 40% as a direct result of this.

The children's play areas and green spaces have been taken away, their lives put in danger and their Christmas ruined with the atmosphere of fear and trepidation.

YOU, Cllr. Baker see fit under these circumstances to send them a Christmas card wishing them a Joyful and Peaceful Christmas when by your own actions you have ensured that this will DEFINITELY NOT be the case.

Is this your idea of a sick joke?

On behalf of the Brookville/Rowanbyrn Residents Association and the Alliance I hereby return to you your Christmas Cards and request that you no longer subject our residents to your sick sense of humour.

Yours sincerely,

ALAN O'REILLY
TREASURER
BROOKVILLE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

Well if that’s not rubbing salt into a gaping wound

2006-12-11T19:01:00.000Z

Residents of Brookville and Rowanbyrn, along the route of the Monkstown Ring Road are receiving Christmas cards from Cllr. Marie Baker.

Despite months of pleading and petitioning all local councillors and political parties to reject the MRR, this councillor (Marie Baker F.G.) who ignored all pleas has now got the brass neck to issue Christmas cards to all residents along the route of the new MRR.

Well if that’s not rubbing salt into a gaping wound then I don’t know what is.

If you are happy to accept this well put it on your mantelpiece!!

If like me you think this is a total liberty….. I propose that next free time you have write a brief message of your distain on your card and call in person to Marie Bakers house #38 Avondale Lawn, Blackrock, and return the card to her, wishing her your very own yuletide message!!

Baker Marie (FG) 01.2887713 mbaker@cllr.dlrcoco.ie

DLRCOCO have a fight on their hands ??

2006-12-06T15:25:00.000Z

PRESS RELEASE

EU Petition on Monkstown Ring Road Ruled Admissible

For Release 1/12/2006

An EU Petition citing breaches of the EU Directive on Environmental Impact Assessment in relation to the planning of the Monkstown Ring Road has been ruled as Admissible by the Petitions Committee of the European Parliament, a Transport Researcher who lodged the Petition, has said.

Welcoming this development Mr. Brian Guckian said that the Petition also cited a number of other Irish road projects that showed similar failures in the planning process.

The central part of Mr. Guckian's Petition is that Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Co. Council failed to adequately and correctly study Alternatives to the MRR scheme, which is a central requirement of the Directive. Mr. Guckian said that legal arguments used at the Oral Hearing in support of the Council's limited interpretation of Alternatives as simply meaning alternative routes for the proposed road were deeply flawed and eminently challengeable.

However, the legal process in Ireland was arranged so that concerned citizens essentially could not challenge the law in these matters, nor challenge flawed planning decisions, because of the very high costs involved, and said that this in itself was another breach of the EU Directive, which required that citizens must have access to justice in planning matters, and at reasonable cost.

Mr. Guckian said it was vital to remember that An Bord Pleanala's Planning Inspector had rejected the Monkstown Ring Road proposal on the most serious and material grounds, and had also raised similar concerns about the consideration of Alternatives. He had also clearly stated that a public transport-only corridor, such as envisaged in the Monkstown-Stillorgan Greenway proposal, merited favourable consideration, in place of the proposed MRR.

ENDS

Contact: Brian Guckian railprojects@eircom.net

Upset with DLRCOCO decision on the MRR?

2006-12-06T15:08:00.000Z

Here is a way to register your disapproval with DLRCOCO over the vote to build the MRR despite the huge outcry and public opinion against the road.

Vote with your feet

Hit DLRCOCO where it hurts.... in the pocket !!

In the process save yourself 20% on your household waste charges that could amount to €105.00 per annum.

Sign up now to Panda Recycling

http://www.panda.ie/index.htm

Panda, one of Ireland's leading experts in waste collection since 1973, is now providing a comprehensive household waste collection service in the Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown area. We offer residents of Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown the opportunity to benefit from 20% guaranteed savings on their household bin charges, plus free extra green bins and with Panda you can now place plastics in your green bin which is better for you and the environment.

Researcher Calls for Full Public Enquiry into Monkstown Ring Road

2006-10-19T22:31:00.000+01:00

PRESS RELEASE

Researcher Calls for Full Public Enquiry into Monkstown Ring Road

For Release 16/10/2006

A Transport Researcher, Mr. Brian Guckian, has called for a full and rigourous public enquiry into the Monkstown Ring Road planning and approval process after it emerged that significant internal lobbying of Councillors to approve the proposed scheme was undertaken by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council staff ahead of last week's vote.

Mr. Guckian said Councillors had been given presentations on just one option - the existing scheme - and said sustainable alternative options, such as the Monkstown-Stillorgan Greenway, which had been submitted to the Council last February at the Oral Hearing into the proposed scheme, had been totally ignored.

"It's like purporting to have a democratic election and then putting up just one candidate", said Mr. Guckian. "Councillors were advised only on the existing proposal, the EIS for which breached EU planning guidelines and which was thrown out by An Bord Pleanala's independent planning expert last June". Mr. Guckian confirmed that at no stage since last February had he been asked by the Council to give balancing presentations on the Greenway alternative.

"This is a scandal. You have Councillors voting for a scheme that was rejected by an independent expert assessment that carefully took account of a huge range of evidence. Then, they completely ignored sustainable alternatives put forward in good faith by people from the county. Just as An Bord Pleanala's decision to grant permission was wrong and is being investigated, last week's vote is just as wrong, and also should be investigated. The whole thing stinks and demands a full and rigourous public enquiry".

Mr. Guckian said that he expected decisive action from the European Parliament on foot of his recent Petition lodged on August 3rd last, and rejected assertions that there was public support for the proposed scheme. "There cannot be support for this; how can anyone with a conscience support a scheme that has been totally rejected by a state planning expert?".

ENDS

Contact: Brian Guckian 087 9140105 railprojects@eircom.net

Monkstown Ring Road Protest Picket

2006-10-13T22:13:00.000+01:00

http://www.ireland.indymedia.org/article/78878

Dublin - Event NoticeMonday October 09 2006

Monkstown Ring Road Protest Picket

dublin environment event notice Sunday October 08, 2006 14:18 by Tony Mac Carthaigh

Monkstown Ring Road Protest Picket

Next Monday , Oct 9 , a peaceful Protest/Picket will be placed at the town hall in Dun Laoghaire where a council meeting will be taking place .

The main item on the agenda is to be the attempted rubber stamping of the highly unpopular Monkstown Ring Road.

On the County development plan for the past 30 years, its imminent O/K would devastate a settled community rending it in two and mean that over 30 mature trees will fall to the chain saws.

Support from some Councillors is assured but a noisy picket with whistles, pots and pans , dustbins etc may encourage some wavering ones to get on side.

South Dublin road approved at council meeting

2006-10-13T22:04:00.000+01:00

http://www.irishtrucker.com/news/news_detail.asp?nid=385

A contentious road in south Dublin was given final approval by Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown councilors on Monday, October 9th after a two-hour council discussion.

The Monkstown Ring Road will connect the Stradbrook area of Blackrock to Stillorgan Park.
It was approved by An Bord Pleanala in June.

It means that 16 homes will be demolished.

The board approved the plan despite its inspector advising that it be dismissed.

Residents in the area had organised a campaign against the plan which increased the pressure on Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown councillors before the meeting on Monday.

They also organised a protest outside the council offices on Monday.

Their efforts were in vain. Councillors voted 16 to 11 against a motion to tell the manager not to go ahead with the road.

Green Party Councillor Nessa Childers,

Fianna Fail’s Barry Conway and

Fine Gael Cllr John Bailey had tabled the motion.

Ms Childers pointed out that in the attempts to connect two retail areas, the council had forgotten that people also live there.

However Cllr Eugene Regan stated that the road was an important piece of infrastructure that should go ahead. County Manager Owen Keegan supported the road.

He agreed to provide extra measures to improve the effects of the road on surrounding houses. This was as long as there was no legal conflict with An Bord Pleanala’s ruling. He also said he would be prepared to help in the provision of double glazing for 40 or so dwellings.

Story filed on October 10, 2006

Local Green Party Councillor Nessa Childers stated:

2006-10-13T21:58:00.000+01:00

http://www.ciarancuffe.com/PR/2006/PR061011D.Monkstown.RR.Council.Decision.htm

“This unnecessary road will bring thousands of cars past people’s driveways everyday, suffering noise, pollution and vibration.

The traffic implications and the serious failure of the council’s traffic department in presenting their case adequately led, among other factors, to Mr Jones rejecting the scheme. He does so, not in a dismissive manner but in clear professional tones.

“Any benefits the road will have will be outweighed by the environmental violence it will visit on the estates of Rowanbyrn and Brookville, the further stress it will create on the village of Stillorgan, and that it is totally contrary to the policies of national, regional and local development of transport which exist in 2006.

Local Green Party Councillor Kealin Ireland stated:
“The only solution to the traffic gridlock in the county is for Dún Laoghaire County Council to demonstrate leadership and demand of the Dublin Transport Office that it provide an enhanced public transport service for Dún Laoghaire.

If, as the County Manager Owen Keegan has said "we have lost the battle with the car" let's look at alternatives, not build more roads which eventually become carparks.”

Green Party Councillor Tom Kivlehan stated:
"Even the Council admits that the Monkstown Ring Road will end up pushing more traffic through the village of Monkstown".

B. Troy..."Attention of Cathaoirleach Regan"

2006-10-11T13:50:00.000+01:00

Attention of Cathaoirleach Regan

Dear Sir,

Before the vote on the MRR at the Council Meeting of 09.10.06 a technical presentation was made, ostensibly to show Councillors 'advantages' of the proposed ring road.

A coloured map entitled MONKSTOWN RING ROAD PREDICTED CHANGE IN TRAFFICFLOWS WITH SCHEME was screened.

This purported to show the changes intraffic flows upon completion of the ring road based on the traffic figuresof the EIS.

A staff member gave a detailed commentary.
This was the firsttime we saw this drawing.
Contrary to the presenter's account, this map is not a true representation in pictorial form of the traffic figures of the Environmental Impact Statement of July 2005.

It is clearly generated by different source material.
It is not true to the figures of the EIS on two counts :-

1. The actual trends are not correctly indicated in line with the figures of the EIS of July 2005 and known traffic counts.

2. The map is not a proper interpretation of the traffic figures as agreed by the engineers from DLRCC and their traffic consultants Faber Maunsell during the Oral Hearing.

As DLRCC Senior Counsel Flanagan pointed out on numerous occasions during the course of the hearing, what was presented at the hearing formed part of the EIS.

The purpose of the new diagram was to 'persuade' the Councillors that there are 'advantages' attaching to the proposed road.

The same form of 'persuasion' was used in the Monkstown Ring Road Report of 1995 in order to have the scheme put back into the County Development Plan and so we recognised that particular stratagem.

The Councillors were misled once again.
We understand that theTransportation Department has been running mini-seminars for small groups of Councillors for the last week or so using this diagram.

This really is intense 'persuasion'.
The diagram represents yet another, different set of traffic figures.

We ask you to immediately act to :-

1. Rescind the decision of Council to proceed with the road as it is based on false information which does not represent the true implication of the traffic figures of the EIS.

2. Make available for general inspection a set of these new traffic figures which form the basis of the diagram in tabular format together with details of their origin - when they were developed and by whom.
Who made the decision to use 'persuasive' figures?
This is the third set of arranged figures that the Roads Department have used to promote this road.

We explained to you in our Rebuttal of the Manager's Report that we as acommunity do not have the financial resources to take legal action against the Council and An Bord Pleanala to establish the highly questionable nature of the traffic figures and, as a consequence, the falseness of the conclusions of the EIS and the decision of the Board of An Bord Pleanala and the County Manager's Report.

Following on from this, we are in contact with the Office of the Ombudsman.
They assisted us in the matter of the 1995 Report.
At that time we could not get the comparative figures needed from the Roads & Traffic Department to prove our point that the MRR Report was seriously flawed.

The EIS of 2005 finally provided the comparative figures we needed.
We contend that there has been a gross abuse of public data.
We are currently preparing a statement of our analysis on comparing the EIS with the MRR of 1995, the conclusions of the EIS, the decision of An Bord Pleanala and the Manager's Report to Council.

We intend asking the County Manager to comment on our deliberations.

Following receipt of his comments (or lack of them as the case may be) the Office of the Ombudsman is preparedto look at it again.

It is the only forum open to us that does not cost the earth?

We consider that our elected representatives are duty bound to help us to establish the truth.
It was obvious from some of the statements made by Councillors at the meeting that their minds are closed to an objective evaluation of the pros and cons of the scheme and that there are other considerations that have nothing to do with dispassionate inquiry motivating their support of the scheme.

This recent third set of figures presented in diagrammatic form at the Council Meeting and used in the 'persuasion' seminars needs to be included in our analysis and we trust you will act with haste to obtain the figures for us.

We suggest that the decision of Council be rescinded immediately to prevent a great injustice being perpetrated on our neighborhoods.

It might be worthwhile advising the County Manager not to proceed with any acquisitions under CPO or carrying out any work on the road until a further meeting of Council has considered the matter again.

Yours,

B. Troy

(For and on behalf of the Combined Residents Associations of Rowanbyrn,Brookville and Fleurville)

An Bord Pleanála
Inspector’s Report
Objectors...
http://www.pleanala.ie/RCH2226.doc

Council Decision Not the End of the Road - Researcher

2006-10-10T21:05:00.000+01:00

PRESS RELEASE

Council Decision Not the End of the Road - Researcher

For Release 10/10/2006

A decision by Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown County Councillors to proceed with the Monkstown Ring Road despite its rejection by An Bord Pleanala's Planning Inspector does not mean the road will be eventually built, a Transport Researcher who is opposing the proposed scheme has said.

Mr. Brian Guckian said today that Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown Co. Council's failure to properly examine alternatives to the road scheme in its Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), and the huge costs of seeking Judicial Review of An Bord Pleanala's decision to grant permision for the scheme last June, were both in contravention of the EU Directive on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and a Petition to this effect was now with the European Parliament.

Mr. Guckian said that the material basis for proceeding with the proposed road had been shown to be deeply flawed and unsustainable, and it was disturbing to see Councillors proceeding with it regardless.

This demanded inquiry, he said, and he was also extremely concerned that a sustainable alternative to the scheme, the Monkstown -Stillorgan Greenway, which would facilitate only public transport and would create a linear park along the proposed route, as well as preserving Yankee Terrace off Newtownpark Avenue, had been completely ignored by the Council.

Mr. Guckian further said it was disingenuous of the Council to use the fact there had been no Judicial Review of the proposed scheme as an argument for proceeding with it, since the costs of taking such proceedings under the Irish legal system were completely out of reach of the average citizen.

This was in breach of both Article 10 of the EU Directive on EIA, and the UN/ECE Aarhus Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters (1998), which Ireland is a signatory to.

Mr. Guckian advised concerned residents not to give up hope, and said he was anxious for decisive and timely EU intervention on this issue.

ENDS

Contact: Brian Guckian 087 9140105 railprojects@eircom.net

Ciaran Cuffe TD (Green Party) Newsletter 10/09/2006

2006-10-10T21:01:00.000+01:00

The residents are thrilled with the rock solid support by Ciaran Cuffe TD and the Green Party on its campaign to have the MRR stopped.

The Green Party is extremely disappointed with yesterday's decision by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council to proceed with the construction of the controversial Monkstown Ring Road.
The four Green Party councillors voted against the road.
This road will bring thousands of cars past the homes of people who are currently living in quiet cul-de-sacs. It will demolish hundred year old homes and fifty year old trees.
It is unbelievable that the Council believes that these types of roads-based transport solutions will tame the traffic.
We agree with the Bord Pleanala Inspector who stated that the road would lead to more children being driven, rather than walking to school.
We will continue to press for more frequent DART services, Luas extensions, more buses and feeder routes and investment in a Safe Routes to School Programme.

Brian Guckian...European Parliament Petition

2006-10-10T20:19:00.000+01:00

Brian Proposes a Monkstown-Stillorgan Greenway.
Public Transportation-Only Corridor.
He has lodged a petition with the European Parliament Luxembourg.

Mr. Brian Guckian
XX xxxx Road,
Stillorgan,
Blackrock,
Dublin,
Ireland.

Dear Sir,

On behalf of the Secretary-General, I am writing to you to acknowledge recent e-mail on 3,8,2006,

Your petition has been entered in the general register as petition No. 575/2006 and I should be most grateful if you would use that reference number in any future correspondence.

Your petition has been forwarded to the committee on petitions which will, first of all, take a decision on its admissibility, i.e. on whether the subject of your petition falls within the sphere of activities of the European Union. If the committee declares it admissible, it will then examine the substance of your petition.

The committee will write to you directly to inform you of its decision on admissibility.
If your petition is declared admissible the aforementioned committee will examine it at a meeting open to the public in accordance with the provision of the European Parliament’s internal rules of procedure.

May I draw your attention to the fact that the procedure for the examination of a petition may be fairly lengthy, given the large number of petitions that we receive which have to be translated into twenty official languages of the European union and then examined by the committee on petitions.

**************
Introduction
The Monkstown - Stillorgan Greenway is an exciting new way of reconciling transportation objectives with sustainability in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown.

What is the Greenway?
The Greenway is an entirely new public transportation-only corridor, following the orbital reservation of the proposed Monkstown Ring Road. It provides for bus, cycle and pedestrian modes of transport, as well as a new linear park.

Fulfilling Objectives
The Greenway completes an orbital corridor from Stillorgan to Dun Laoghaire, first proposed in the 1970s. But importantly, it is based on 2006 transportation thinking. And critically, it leverages public transport use. This is further discussed below.

Greenway Features
The Greenway, facilitating sustainable transport modes, needs less roadspace than a car-based design. Importantly, the width can be reduced in critical areas (such as Yankee Terrace) because the vehicular bus traffic would be significantly less continuous and more predictable than regular car-based movements. This means that very short single-way sections could be provided, eliminating the need for CPOs and consequent social impacts.

If necessary, very short single-way sections can be provided on the Greenway to avoid property demolition.
This is made possible by the less continuous nature of bus traffic and by traffic signalling technology.

Example
A bus waits for one travelling in the other direction before entering
the short single-way section.
The Greenway also features parallel cycleways and pedestrian routes and allows for large-scale planting and landscaping to form a linear park

The Split......Know who you can depend on!

2006-10-09T22:28:00.000+01:00

Councillors against the road:

1. Bailey John (FG) jbailey@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
2. Bailey Marie (FG) mbailey@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
3. Butler Larry (FF) lbutler@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
4. Childers Nessa (Green) nchilders@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
5. Conway Barry (FF) bconway@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
6. Devlin Cormac (FF) cdevlin@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
7. Dillon Byrne Jane (Labour) jdbyrne@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
8. Fallon Ciaran (Green) cfallon@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
9. Ireland Kealin (Green) kireland@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
10. Kivlehan Tom (Green) tkivlehan@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
11. O'Callaghan Denis (Labour) denisoc@cllr.dlrcoco.ie

Councillors for the road:
The main parties in power (Fine Gael and Labour) voted majority in favour of the road going ahead.

1. Baker Marie (FG) mbaker@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
2. Bhreathnach Niamh (Labour) nbhreathna@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
3. Corrigan Maria (FF) mcorrigan@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
4. Cosgrave Louise (FG) louisecosg@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
5. Culhane Aidan (Labour) aculhane@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
6. Fox Tony (FF) tonyfox@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
7. Hand Pat (FG) phand@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
8. Horkan Gerry (FF) ghorkan@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
9. Marren Donal (FG) dmarren@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
10. Matthews Trevor (FF) tmatthews@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
11. McCarthy Lettie (Labour) lmccarthy@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
12. Mitchell O'Connor Mary (PD) mmoconnor@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
13. O'Keefe Gearoid (Independant) gokeeffe@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
14. O'Leary Jim (FG) joleary@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
15. Regan Eugene (FG) eregan@cllr.dlrcoco.ie
16. Smyth Carrie (Labour) carriesmyth@cllr.dlrcoco.ie

Absent:
1. Joyce Tom (FG) tjoyce@cllr.dlrcoco.ie

Councillors promises…..some only tell you what you want to hear

2006-10-09T20:34:00.000+01:00

Sad news folks

16 Councillors for the road to be built.

11 Councillors against the road being built.

1 Councillor abstained.

Do you remember which councillors promised you they would vote against the road?
Do you still have the paper work that came thro your door?
Do you remember the answers you got on your phone call campaign?
Do you remember the answers toy got from your text campaign?
Do you remember the answers you got from your email campaign?

Which councillors were unavailable to you for comment all through your campaign?

The election process is just around the corner.
All the local politicians will be knocking on your door looking for your vote to keep them in a job.

What will be your reply to them when they do that?
What will your vote be?

An Bord Pleanála....can they make up their own minds??

2006-10-08T21:49:00.000+01:00

http://www.pleanala.ie/REP/208/R208406.DOC

An Bord Pleanála

Inspector’s Report

PL06D.208406

DEVELOPMENT:

Two storey detached house on site to side of

126 Rowanbryn,

Blackrock,

Co. Dublin

PLANNING APPLICATION

Planning Authority: Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council

Planning Authority Reg. No: D04A/0651

Applicant: Helen Coughlan

Application Type: Permission

............It is also stated policy to:-

“Conserve the existing housing stock of the county, to densify existing built up areas and to retain and improve residential amenities in existing residential developments” (para 5.1.5 – policy RES5).........................

............In terms of the Roads Objectives, the Plan states the following in relation to the Monkstown Ring Road:-

“It is a Council objective to complete the strategic orbital route known as the Monkstown Ring road to link Dun Laoghaire with the west of the County. The route will follow York Road, Mounttown Upper, Monkstown Avenue, to Brookville Park, and then to Carysfort Avenue via Yankee Terrace and Fleurville. The proposed design shall seek to retain Yankee Terrace.”

The Scheme is included in the list of Six Year Roads Objectives. The Plan cautions that the schemes are “dependent on the necessary finance being available”.

[I am enclosing, in the Appendix at the end of this report, extracts from the written Statement of the Plan, highlighted where relevant to the issues in this appeal, together with a copy of an extract from the Development Plan map.].........................

CPO & extinguishing the public rights of way

2006-10-08T21:24:00.000+01:00

NOTICE OF THE CONFIRMATI0N BY AN BORD PLEANÁLA OF A COMPULSORY PURCHASE ORDER MADE UNDER SECTION 76 OF AND THE THIRD SCHEDULE TO THE HOUSING ACT, 1966, AS EXTENDED BY SECTION 10 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT (NO. 2) ACT, 1960, AS RESPECTS ALL OR PART OF THE LAND TO WHICH THE COMPULSORY PURCHASE ORDER RELATES TO BE PUBLISHED IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 78 (1) OF THE HOUSING ACT, 1966, AS AMENDED BY THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACTS 2000 -2004
COMPULSORY ACQUISITION OF LAND

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council Compulsory Purchase
(Monkstown Ring Road) Order, 2005

An Bord Pleanála has, on the 22nd day of June 2006, made a Confirmation Order confirming with modifications the above-named Compulsory Purchase Order as respects the land described in the Schedule hereto. The said Order, as so confirmed, authorises the County Council of the County of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown to acquire the said land compulsorily. It will become operative three weeks from the date of publication of this notice. A copy of the Order as so confirmed and of the map referred to in it may be seen at all reasonable hours at the offices of the County Council, County Hall, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Local Office, Dundrum Office Park, (rear of Bank of Ireland) off Main Street, Dundrum.

The Order also authorises the Local Authority to extinguish the public rights of way 1 – 3 on Part 11 of the Schedule and the private right of way described in Part II of the Schedule hereto, by Order made by them after they have acquired the said land.

An application for judicial review of the decision of the Board under Order 84 of the rules of the Superior Courts (S.I. No. 15 of 1986) may be duly made to the High Court within eight weeks of the date of publication of this notice in accordance with Section 50 of the Planning and Development Act 2000.
Schedule – Part 1

Lands situated in the Town Lands of Stillorgan Park, Newtown Castlebyrne & Kill of the Grange.

Louis Monks Edward C Hughes
Senior Executive Officer County Law Agent
Economic Development & Planning Dept.

Dated this 24th Day of July 2006.

Calamitous Monkstown Ring Road to be scrapped?

2006-10-08T21:16:00.000+01:00

http://www.archiseek.com/content/showthread.php?p=57645#post57645

Just an update on this disastrous scheme.
Monday night will see the members of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council vote to remove this road from the Development Plan.
For info on this scheme, please see the previous post on the matter...In summary, An Bord Pleanala's technical assessment of the scheme found it to be deeply flawed and contrary to proper and sustainable transport planning, but their members still approved it as it complied with the Statutory Development Plan.

As a result opponents, and the Green Party's Nessa Childers, have asked for it to be removed from this plan owing to the independent assessment carried out.

It would seem that apart from the 4 Green Councillors, FG's John Bailey and Maria Bailey and FF's Barry Conway, many Councillors remain unconvinced that this road will destroy vast swathes of suburban Dublin without conferring any benefits.

However they are beginning to turn.

They are meeting with locals again, having had presentations from manager Owen "The argument that private car capacity should be increased was lost a long time ago" Keegan last week.

For Niamh Breathnach, who lobbied to remove this scheme in 1993, to now approve it would be a joke considering the greatly increased environmental disbenefits that would now accrue from the scheme.

For FG, who’s John Bailey has been vehement in his disdain for this road, to open up a new public schism between Dail hopefuls Bailey and Regan would also do them damage in a very sensitive constituency they once dominated.

Monday Night will be interesting.
We will find out for sure if all the bluster from the major parties about environmental concerns and the promotion of sustainable transport is just that.

Do they (Breathnach, McCarthy, Smyth, Baker, O'Leary, Regan, Butler, Devlin, Mitchell O'Connor et al) have the stomach necessary to stand up and make the proper decision based on the facts?

Do they have the necessary insight to leave 1970's transport planning philosophy behind?
Have they the necessary imagination to come up with sustainable solutions to urban transport problems?
Are they willing to allow professional, considered, detailed advice to be brushed aside by haphazard mismanagement of the County?

It's now time for the elected members to exercise their mandate and run the damn county the way it should be...

Michelle Cawley a Brookville resident........."endangering the lives of children"

2006-10-08T21:05:00.000+01:00

Hi A-MRR,

I’m really pleased to see the blog with loads of information about the protests against the Ring Road.

I’m a Brookville resident and am worried about next Monday’s decision – hopefully we have done enough.

I was interested in the item on the news the other day about how the Dept of Transportation are unhappy with the amount of schoolchildren who are now being driven to school and the numbers walking are down between 50-80%.

They are going to do a survey and it was said that these statistics might have an impact on future planning decisions.

I think it’s incredible then that they are considering putting a highway through a residential cul-de-sac endangering the lives of children and ensuring that none of them will be walking to school if the road goes ahead.

It’s so disgraceful that this has gotten this far.

I wrote to the cllrs again yesterday pointing this out.

Just wanted to say well done with the blog.

Let’s hope we pull through next Monday.

Regards,

Michelle Cawley

CRSOS Chairperson Gene Feighery expresses concerns to Cllr. Gearoid O'Keeffe

2006-10-08T20:49:00.000+01:00

To: "Gearoid O'Keeffe" <gokeeffe@cllr.dlrcoco.ie>
Sent: Sunday, October 08, 2006 5:50 PM
Subject: MRR - Lobby Councillors

Combined Residents to Save Open Space
Chairperson: Gene Feighery,
Vice Chairperson: Sarah O'Connor,
Secretary:Deirdre O'Reilly

Dear Cllr. O'Keeffe,

On behalf of CRSOS, and in co-operation with SDCRA and a number of residents' groups in Monkstown, we request that Item no. 7 relating to theCounty Manager's recommendation on the Monkstown Ring Road be rejected at Monday 9th October's council meeting.

CRSOS made a detailed study of the EIS prepared by DLRCoCo.
We made a submission based on the findings of this EIS to the Council.
We attended and contributed to the oral hearing process presided over by Inspector Philip Jones of An Bord Pleanala in the Gresham Hotel in Dublin.
We have read and considered Inspector Jones' report on the MRR.
We reject the Manager's report and conclusions on the proposed road.

The development of Dun Laoghaire Golf Club lands and the construction of the Monkstown Ring Road are inextricably linked.
Sections of the EIS, which was so heavily criticised by Inspector Jones, refers to anticipated future development, increase in traffic volumes and residential densities arising from Dun Laoghaire Golf Club lands.

The current planning application proposal seeks twice the density referred to in the original rezoning application and the granting of permission and density of the development relies heavily on the carrying capacity of the local infrastructure.

Contrary to recent media reports to the effect that the golf club deal is now concluded, the record will show that the Heads of Terms, signed by Peter, Joseph and Michael Cosgrave of the Cosgrave Property Group on 5th June 2002 states:

"The Purchaser will have the right to reject the variation of the Plan if it does not provide a sufficient number of residential units to be agreed with DLGC"

I note from recent media reports that your sympathies may rest with a number of property owners in and around Yankee Terrace.
Regardless of whether or not the road goes ahead, these property owners will achieve a market value for their houses, either by CPO or on the open market.

However a decision based on the principles of sustainable development, residential amenity, protection of architectural heritage and community needs must take precedence over a small number of property owners whose interests will be served regardless of the road construction.

Therefore we request that you exercise independence on this matter and that your decision reflects the wishes of a large number of residents in Dun Laoghaire, Stillorgan and its environs by rejecting the Manager's recommendation to develop the MRR.

Thank you.

Gene Feighery,
Chairperson, CRSOS

Ros O'Shaughnessy took some nice Pics of the A-MRR March

2006-10-06T11:39:00.000+01:00

Barry Troy of the Rowanbyrn and District Residents Association with Cllr. Ciaran Cuffe (Green Party) and Cllr. John Bailey (FG) Listening to speech from Cllr. Nessa Childers (Green Party)

Even in the torrential rain.... this will give you all the scale of the event.

Expressions of a concerned parent to Owen Keegan

2006-10-05T23:48:00.000+01:00

"owen keegan" <okeegan@dlrcoco.ie>

Sent: Thursday, October 05, 2006 11:34 PM

Subject: Rebutting NTP Ave. pro-road group

It has come to my attention that residents in favour of the Ring Road have received front page attention in the latest edition of the LifeTimes publication.

I would like to rebut a few of their arguments.

First of all, they complain that we in Rowanbyrn bought our houses knowing that the MRR was due to be built.

Not true.

When we bought our house in1991 we were told by a planning office official that the plan was "old" and "out of date" and "due to be taken off".

Indeed, the Lifetimes article points out that it WAS "taken off" in the1990's.

Many if not all residents of Newtownpark Ave bought their houses on a road in full use, they knew what they were doing.

What they propose is essentially to shift all the problems they complain about over to us!

However, the opening of the Ring Road as proposed will NOT solve their problems.

A tremendous amount of the traffic on NTP Ave is generated by the schools, church and shops.

Traffic will not go away, it is likely that NTP Ave will be used as a "rat run" when the inevitable congestion occurs on our portion of the Ring Road......should it go ahead.

One of the residents interviewed claims that she can be delayed for "hours"getting into her driveway.

What utter nonsense.

As a regular user of NTP Ave I have never been delayed on that road for more than a few minutes unless the traffic lights are faulty or there is some other abnormal problem.

A frustrating delay at times, yes, but, one of minutes, not hours.

Her claimis completely bogus.

Again, what she and her group are asking is that WE shoulder the problem, which they bought into.

Newtownpark Avenue will always be a busy road and has been for years.

The residents there are accustomed to it and bought there homes in the full knowledge that it was so.

Until relatively recently there was no promise of the proposed Ring Road in sight, which would supposedly relieve traffic on NTP Ave.

We, on the other hand, accustomed to only local traffic, have built up a sociable community comprising Rowanbyrn, Brookville and Spring Hill estates

Many of us have children who visit friends in other parts of the three estates, and parents can rest assured that if the kids follow specific routes that they will not have to cross any busy roads.

Our own cul-de-sac attracts kids from all over the three estates.

If this road plan goes ahead, our community will be chopped into pieces, no longer safe for our children to travel to see their friends without being driven or accompanied by parents.

Our own cul-de-sac, numbers 1 - 16 Rowanbyrn, will be cut off from the rest of Rowanbyrn Estate.

As far as the residents of Yankee Terrace are concerned, it is my understanding that those who support the new road are happy to see YankeeTerrace demolished so they can take the CPO money......and have no hassle ever selling their property.

We are the ones who will be stuck here with the traffic and all its attendant problems.

I look forward to your voting to reject the Ring Road plan on Monday.

Yours sincerely,

Carol Stephenson-Carty

Enda Carty

Aoife Carty

Evan Carty

Residents of Stillorgan and Kilmacud in opposition

2006-10-05T22:59:00.000+01:00

Residents of Stillorgan and Kilmacud unite in their opposition of the proposed Monkstown Ring road.

Over 30,000 vehicles (1 vehicle every 2.8 seconds) including HGV traffic will cut a swathe through Stillorgan.

A local area plan is being prepared for the area to try and manage the construction traffic which will strangle the area over the rest of this decade during the reconstruction of Stillorgan Shopping Centre, Leisureplex, Blakes and ancillary sites.

Local residents in Mount Merrion fear that rat running will force a huge portion of this traffic through their residential area.

A petition has already been signed by hundreds of local residents.

**

Monkstown and Dun Laoghaire homes were not aware that the Monkstown Ring Road is coming their way.

They assumed that the traffic was going to divert on the Deansgrange road.

The traffic figures used in various reports prepared by Dun Laoghaire are not consistent.

MRR final big push!

2006-10-05T19:49:00.000+01:00

Stop the Monkstown Ring Road!!

We need YOU for the final big push!

PICKET THE COUNTY HALL

(OPPOSITE DUN LAOGHAIRE DART STATION)

http://www.dlrcoco.ie/map.htm

MONDAY 9TH OCTOBER AT 4 PM
GATHER AT THE CAR PARK ENTRANCE TO COUNTY HALL

Bring picket signs, whistles, and other noisemakers

(pot lids and spoons, etc)

Most importantly, BE THERE!!!

Bring your friends!

Bring your kids!

WE WILL BE HEARD!!!

The crucial vote we have been waiting for is at hand – it takes place at the County Council meeting on Monday October 9th at 5 PM.

We will gather there at 4 PM in order to greet the councilors on their way in with our determination to have this road STOPPED.

WE NEED YOU THERE

DCC 02/02/1982. Notification of a decision to refuse permission.

2006-10-05T19:34:00.000+01:00

02/02/1982

Dublin County Council
Notification of a decision to refuse permission.

Local Government (planning & development) acts, 1963 & 1976

Fleurville was built after several attempts to develop the site and in particular on order A/1086/82 dated 30/04/1982.

Bullet Point 6 states.

The site of the proposal is seriously affected by the projected Monkstown Ring Road reservation as shown on drawing map RSPS 2005 from the edge of which proposed houses require to be set back at least 50 ft

Cllr. Kealin Ireland (Green Party)

2006-10-05T17:53:00.000+01:00

The residents greatly appreciate Cllr. Kealin Ireland's continued support.

Sent: Thursday, October 05, 2006 11:26 AM
Subject: Re: Stop the Monkstown Ring Road !

Hello

I have given the issue of the Monkstown Ring Road considerable thought and have come to the conclusion that it is unnecessary at best and will be severely disruptive or dangerous at worst.

Last week I attended a very detailed presentation given by the Council in relation to the road.

(All councillors were invited to a similar presentation).

Nothing which I heard or saw made me change my view. In fact the information, including maps and statistics, only strengthened my viewpoint; that this road was envisaged during the 70s when the county, infrastructure, its residents and their needs and lifestyles were dramatically different.

I believe that the road will contribute nothing positive to residents' lives and that it could have a very negative and potentially dangerous effect.

It will not reduce traffic congestion in Blackrock, Monkstown or Dun Laoghaire, in Carysfort Ave, Newtownpark Ave or anywhere else - no matter what you have been told and what spin has been put on these issues.

The road and its consequent rat running will in all likelihood add to congestion and the volumes of traffic in the vicinity.

I am at a loss to understand those who say that it will contribute to the economic development of either Dun Laoghaire or Stillorgan.

It is a reasonably inaccessible road of only 1 km which brings motorists further away from both these centres than any existing access road. This will lead to frustration and anger - not economic re-development.

Our planners, councillors and the County Manager should demonstrate leadership and admit that this road is a mistake and should be declared redundant.

We should use all our influence to persuade the Dublin Transport Office that the only solution to the county's traffic congestion is to provide enhanced public transport.

Owen Keegan (County Manager) himself said when he was Traffic Manager for Dublin City that we had lost the battle with traffic congestion. I concur.
Take a trip along the M50 any hour of the day or night, any day of the week and you will see the logic of his argument.

Roads attract traffic and congestion and increase our reliance on cars.
This is the key issue which we need to address over the next decade.

I realise that this viewpoint is not supported by all.
However, after listening to all viewpoints and visiting the area over recent months, I have concluded that I must act in the interests of the greater good and support the hundreds of residents who will be severely disadvantaged if this road proceeds.

It is my honest judgement that this road is unnecessary and I will therefore be voting to support the Green Party's motion to remove the road from the County Development Plan.

Please do not hesitate to contact me again about this issue - and thank you for taking the time to write to me.

Regards

Kealin

Councillor Kealin Ireland
Green Party
Eglinton Cottage
Tivoli Road
Dun Laoghaire
Co. Dublin

01 2801 439
086 388 1535

A detailed map outlining a "Nice looking cycle path"!!!

2006-10-04T23:59:00.000+01:00

http://www.dlrcoco.ie/planning/DevPlan04/MAP02/map2H.htm

Cllr. Barry Conway (FF) offers guarded support 01/10/2006

2006-10-04T22:27:00.000+01:00

The residents greatly appreciate Cllr. Barry Conway's continued support.

I think some clarification of the wording (in red) would be good.

To the Residents of Rowanbyrn, Brookville Park Fleurville And Surrounding Areas

October 1st 2006

Re: the Monkstown Ring Road

Dear Resident,
Following correspondence from many residents I am writing to you to outline my position in connection with the proposed Monkstown Ring Road.

In light of the inspector's report which was issued following an extensive public hearing, I cannot support the road as currently proposed.

The inspector highlighted the adverse impact of the road.
In particular he outlined the implications of the road in terms of community severance, road safety and pollution.

As a public representative for the area I feel compelled to have regard to his findings.
Accordingly I intend to vote against the road when the County Manager brings the matter before the Council.

Kind regards

The Missing Link???.......Treasury Holdings proposed Re-Development of Stillorgan

2006-10-03T23:48:00.000+01:00

http://www.pleanala.ie/REP/214/R214710.DOC

PLANNING APPLICATION

Planning Authority: Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council

Planning Authority Reg. No: D05A/0215

Applicant: Myrmidon Ltd.

Application Type: Permission

Planning Authority Decision: Grant, subject to 24 conditions

DATE OF SITE INSPECTION: 17th May 2005.

Excerpts from An Bord Pleanala Planning Application…Page 23 0f 73

Ø It is noted that the developer of the Shopping Centre, Treasury Holdings, offered to fund the reasonable costs of a review of their traffic documentation. However, the appellants responded to the effect that this would not result in any additional benefit, but that the commissioning of traffic studies or analysis in addition to the integrated traffic management plan, in the context of the Local Area Plan, would be welcomed by them. (Copies of the exchange of correspondence is appended).

Ø In addition to this, the appellants note the proposal for the Monkstown Ring Road, the EIS of which predicts a traffic flow of some 25,000 cars and 810 HGV’s, and state that this will “clearly have a significant impact on traffic volumes in Stillorgan”. It is noted that this has not been referred to, or considered at all, in the traffic surveys and data submitted as part of the Shopping Centre application.

Page 27

The Plan indicates a Cycle Priority and also a Quality Bus/Bus Priority objective for the Lower Kilmacud Road, running to the junction with the N11 in each case (the bus priority objective continues eastwards beyond the N11 along Stillorgan Park)......................

Page 35

Within the Plan’s retail hierarchy, Stillorgan is classified as a District Centre (the second tier in the hierarchy, after Major Town Centre and before ‘Neighbourhood/Local Centre’). The two Major Town Centres are Dun Laoghaire and Dundrum, with Cherrywood-Rathmichael as a new emerging urban centre, while the other District Centres are Blackrock, Nutgrove, Dalkey and Cornelscourt. The Plan states:-

“Retail developments should relate to this hierarchy, they should locate within designated centres.... and be of a scale compatible with the function of the centre, and the market that it serves. In order to ensure the continued vibrancy of Major Town Centres, Cherrywood-Rathmichael and District Centres, the provision of leisure, entertainment and cultural uses will be encouraged. In large-scale proposals, the provision, and retention or replacement of such uses may be required.”...............................

Page 47

..............................In particular, I find the consultants’ unwillingness to accept that the 2002 figures were unreliable because the surveys were carried out at a time when all of the local secondary schools, and many of the local private primary/preparatory schools were closed, and also during the weeks of the 2002 World Cup, which had the undoubted effect of markedly suppressing traffic volumes. The figures now presented show that the reduction in traffic levels through the junctions between 1999 and 2002 was not representative, and that the levels in 2004 were the same, or higher, than those in 1999......................................

Given that it is Government policy that no significant additional road capacity is to be provided in the Greater Dublin Area inside the C ring, and that modal shift to public transport has to be accelerated and promoted in lieu of the provision of further road capacity for private cars, it is unlikely that the increased traffic levels generated by this, and other developments in this District Centre, can readily be accommodated within the road network..............................

...............This begs the question whether it is appropriate to prevent redevelopment of brownfield sites, such as this, in commercial cores, only on the basis that there is insufficient road capacity to take the traffic generated by it.................

There must come a time when the convenience of the motorist, and perhaps outmoded desires for engineering-based solutions that seek to maintain “free flowing” traffic conditions, have to be subordinated to the needs of sustainable development, and that the emphasis must be placed on public transport, and other sustainable modes of transit, rather than private motor car transportation.

In essence, traffic delays, of themselves, can no longer be the test against which the acceptability or otherwise of developments in highly urbanised built-up commercial areas should be judged................

........................................The developer shall pay to the planning authority a financial contribution of €3,646,296.70 (three million, six hundred and forty-six thousand, two hundred and ninety-six euro and seventy cents) in respect of public infrastructure and facilities benefiting development in the area

SouthSide People 02/10/2006

2006-10-03T22:19:00.000+01:00

http://www.dublinpeople.com/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1729&Itemid=49
Appeal to reject ring road

Southside residents who say they will be adversely affected by the construction of the Monkstown Ring Road have issued a rebuttal of the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown county manger’s report on the road, which supports the project.In a document seen by Southside People, the Rowanbyrn and Brookville Residents’ Association appeals to councillors to instruct the manager to remove the present scheme from the County Development Plan.

This comes ahead of a county council meeting to secure funds for the project on October 9.

The manager’s report was highly critical of the report of An Bord Pleanála’s inspector who said he was “satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the adverse effects on the environment of this proposed roads scheme…. are so severe that the scheme ought not to be approved”.

The inspector added: “The benefits of the scheme are so minimal and insignificant as to be far outweighed by the environmental costs, both to the community in general and to those persons whose properties are sought to be acquired.”

In their rebuttal of the manager’s report on the ring road, the Rowanbyrn and Brookville Residents’ Association claimed that it was “an attempt to rewrite the Environmental Impact Statement and simultaneously discredit the findings of the inspector”.

Barry Troy of the Rowanbyrn and Brookville Residents’ Association told Southside People: “He adopts the position that An Bord Pleanála has granted permission so therefore he must build the road. However, we reject this and it is up to the councillors to approve the project which is going to cost €15 million.”In the document residents claimed that the manager and An Bord Pleanála attempted to maintain that the ring road would reduce traffic and improve the environment on adjacent roads.

“The Transportation Department and their traffic consultants abandoned this idea during the oral hearing when they could not explain the large discrepancies in their traffic analysis,” the residents stated.

“They stated then that the MRR would not reduce traffic congestion or increase safety on any road.

Now the manager is saying the opposite – a second bite at the cherry.”

The residents contend that the purpose of the MRR is to create the idea that there is now increased space for traffic on many existing roads to justify releasing new traffic from other developments.

The rebuttal of the county manager’s report further claimed that Mr Keegan had not given any consideration to valid alternatives, which would achieve positive results for everyone.

Residents also held a protest march last Saturday in advance of the county council meeting this week where a motion will be put forward to have the ring road removed from the Development Plan.

In a statement, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council said: “All issues and alternatives were considered at the oral hearing.

An Bord Pleanála adjudicated and approved the scheme with modifications.

“The road has been in successive development plans since 1972 except for one period.
It is an objective of the current development plan and is being implemented by the county manager on this basis.”

Cllr. John Bailey (FG) Support 01/10/2006

2006-10-03T21:49:00.000+01:00

The residents greatly appreciate Cllr. John Bailey & his daughter and fellow Councilors, Maria Bailey continued support.

October 2006

Re: The Monkstown Ring Road - I promise to oppose it

Dear Resident,

I wish to write to you to state my position on the proposed Monkstown Ring Road Development.
I have listened to the views and concerns of residents in the locality, attended residents' meetings on the matter and read the Planning Inspector's Report to An Bord Pleanala.

I will be opposing the Monkstown Ring Road when it comes before the Council on Monday, 9th October and I will be voting to remove the proposal for the road from the County Development Plan.

This is my written guarantee to you that I will do that.
In addition to this I will also do my utmost to convince other County Councillors of the need to oppose this road.
Furthermore, my daughter and fellow Councillor, Maria Bailey has assured me that she will also oppose Ring Road and vote to remove it from the County Development Plan.

I believe the Planning Inspector's Report clearly outlines numerous grounds on which this road should not be given approval and it would be remiss of me as a public representative to ignore this expert advice and even more importantly the wishes of the public.

If I can be of any assistance to you at anytime then please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best Wishes.

Yours faithfully,

Councillor John Bailey
-Dail Candidate

TD Barry Andrews (FF) Support 07/09/2006

2006-10-03T21:26:00.000+01:00

The residents greatly appreciate TD Barry Andrews continued support.

Some of Barry Andrews TD letter to a concerned Fleurville resident.

“However, it seems now that the experts are divided since Mr. Jones’ report was so clear in saying that the road would not be in keeping with good planning”.

“I have spoken to some of the Fianna Fail public representatives, namely, Cllrs. Gerry Horkan, Barry Conway, Larry Butler and Cormac Devlin. I have verbal commitments from each of them not to support the measure through the Council chamber if the Manager puts the issue to the members of the Council.”

“I hope this clarifys the situation.”

Kind Regards,

Yours Sincerely.

Graeme Byrne has his own details on MRR

2006-10-03T01:00:00.000+01:00

Monday, July 24, 2006

The Monkstown Ring Road and Bord Pleanala

This road has been planned by Dunlaoghaire Rathdown County Council since the 1950's although they can't prove anything before 1972, as they lost their documentation.

Anyhow, the reason I have created this blog is because Bord Pleanala have approved the development, despite very strong recommendations from one of their senior officials to reject the planned development.

Here are some of his closing comments in his report following an oral hearing into the planned development:This is an extract from the Inspectors' report.
Graeme's full webPage can be read at http://monkstownringroad.blogspot.com/

Monkstown Ring Road Protest March Sept 30th

2006-10-03T00:48:00.000+01:00

http://www.dublin.ie/forums/showthread.php?p=86127#post86127

An Bord Pleanála, against the advise of it's own inspector, has granted permission for the building of the Monkstown Ring Road.

The local residents have organised a protest march in advance of a county council meeting where a motion will be put forward to have the Ring Road removed from the Development Plan.

The march will take place this Saturday, September 30th, starting at 2pm from the green at the entrance to Brookville Park, Blackrock.

This road does not only affect residents of Fluerville, Brookville and those of Yankee Terrace whos houses are to be compulsory purchased but this road is to extend to Bakers Corner (already a bottle neck) and on to Sallynoggin, Glenegeary and Killiney.

This road and further proprosed roads in the Development Plan 2004-2010 are going to bring further traffic congestion to already congested areas such as Deansgrange and Mountown.

One of the arguements given to An Bord Pleanála by the planners was that this road would provide a link between Stillorgan and Dun Laoghaire; as the road doesn't go to Dun Laoghaire and instead filters into smaller bottle necks this arguement is flawed in the extreme.

Pleanálas' own inspector argued this point and many others at the Oral Hearing earlier this year. The oral hearing went in favour of not building the road but the Bord choose to ignore both the inspectors report and the affected residents and granted the permission.

A letter and email campaign, petition and also a march has been organised in the hope that the councillors will remove the road from the plan at their next meeting.

Such councillors as Barry Conway (FF) and Nessa Childers (Green) are against the Ring Road and Councillor Childers, I am led to believe, will be putting forward the motion to have it removed at the next meeting set for October 9th next.

I am appealing to all members and their families who live in the affected areas to come to the march on Saturday and to those who wouldn't be affected we would appreciate all your support.

The proposed development plan etc are on the councils website: www.dlrcoco.ie

Madness in Monkstown Sat. 30/09/2006

2006-10-03T00:34:00.000+01:00

October, 2006

Madness in Monkstown
It rained, it lashed, it poured, we marched through the downpour.
It seems crazy that in 2006 a Local Authority believes that throwing more roads at the traffic will solve our transport problems.
The amazing thing is that that it's not a road like the new road between the Glenageary Roundabout at Sallynoggin and Church Road in Killiney.
This thing is a monster.
It will bring tens of thousands of cars past people's driveways every day.
It will exceed the noise levels for National roads.
It'll have the same amount of traffic as the Arklow Bypass, but it'll bring them on to what is currently a series of cul-de-sacs.

Well, the inspector said in his report that:"...the proposed road development would represent an inappropriate form of development which would encourage increased car usage and would conflict with national, regional and local policies for the sustainable development of transport."He also stated that:"I am satisfied that the proposed road would be likely to lead to a modal shift away from walking towards short-hop use of cars, on grounds of safety.

This would, in my judgment, be particularly likely in relation to school children, who currently have safe routes to walk to the local schools within a 300m - 500m distance, being driven to school in the future.

This is totally contrary to the emphasis and policy direction of the Platform for Change Strategy (and indeed other Government policies in relation to health and children generally.

"The solution is for Government to provide more buses, and better routes in Dublin, instead of endless wrangling between Government partners; improve DART frequency; and extend the Luas to Bray, as well as providing Safe Routes to School at a local level.

After spending days at the Oral Hearing held by An Bord Pleanála in the Gresham Hotel last spring I was delighted with the Inspector's Report but bitterly disappointed that the Board itself over-ruled his decision.

Matters will come to a head on Monday week 09nd October in the Council Chamber of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, and it could turn nasty.

The Green Party councillors led by ward councillor Nessa Childers will be voting not to proceed with the works under section 139 of the Local Government Act, and it's up to the other groups on the Council to decide what to do.

There's a lot of lobbying going on, as there'll clearly be winners and losers in all this.

I've been receiving lots of texts and emails, and I do my best to win them over to my way of seeing things.
Text lobbying seems to have emerged over the last few months. It's invasive, but effective.

I just don't see the logic in spending €20 million plus on saving 30 seconds on a journey and reducing congestion by 1%, but as I said in my own evidence at the Inquiry even those figures are suspect.

If more kids are going to be driven to school, it simply doesn't make sense.

Well done to Sean Mulvihill (shaking hands with Nessa and myself in the pic) and Barry Troy of the Rowenbyrn and District Residents Association for the time and effort that they've put into all of this.

We'll see how it all pans out in the Council chamber on Monday week.

Pictures Of the A-MRR March Sat.30/09/2006

2006-10-02T23:30:00.000+01:00

Ciaran Cuffe's Information on the Monkstown Ring Road

2006-10-02T23:11:00.000+01:00

http://www.ciarancuffe.com/DunLaoghaire/BlackrockWard/Monkstown.htm

Information on the Monkstown Ring Road

27 June 2006 Monkstown Ring Road Decision by An Bord Pleanála

Dear Residents, An Bord Pleanála has approved the proposed Monkstown Ring Road with 13 conditions.
Most of these conditions ensure that the Council builds higher boundary walls adjacent to the road as well as some pedestrian facilities.

While these conditions do represent an improvement on Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council’s original plan I still believe this road project is a poorly planned piece of infrastructure.Having spent considerable time at the Oral Hearing arguing against the road I am disappointed at this outcome.

The Green Party felt that this road was inappropriate and would attract more traffic onto residential streets. We will continue to oppose the plan and press the Council to provide more support for improved bus, DART and Luas links as well as pedestrian and cycling facilities.

I believe that the new road will result in large volumes of commuter transport passing through quiet residential areas.
I also believed the destruction of the cottages on Yankee Terrace could have been avoided.My Green Party colleagues on the Council will now seek to have the road removed from the County Development Plan, but it is unlikely that we will receive support from the other political parties on the Council.
Some of you may also wish to seek a judicial review of the decision, but again I feel that this is unlikely to succeed.
I have attached a link to the Bord’s decision and the Inspector's Report, and my own submission to the hearing may be viewed below.

Link to An Bord Pleanála Website:

http://www.pleanala.ie/monk.html

I ask that the application from Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council for approval for the Monkstown Ring Road be rejected by the Board.It should be rejected for two reasons.
Firstly the Environmental Impact Statement is gravely deficient in its content.
Secondly, and more significantly it is a poor transport proposal.
The alternative of a do-nothing or a do-minimum should be considered. This could include enhanced public transport provision and traffic management and/or pedestrian and cycling linkages through the area.
Deficiencies Mr. Inspector the EIS is inadequate in content; it conceals the views of the County Architect that Yankee Terrace should be retained; it naively assumes that new roads are good for business.
It fails to take into account the tendency of new roads to create traffic and it under-estimates their tendency to attract traffic.InformationInsufficient information has not been made available in a timely manner for third parties to assess the proposal.

I understood that the ‘Monkstown Ring Road Environmental Impact Statement dated July 2005, with page number up to 101 and which included fold-out figures was the Local Authority’s application to the Board for approval.
I am happy for the Applicant to expand that information with the statements from a dozen witnesses to date. However I am concerned at the reference to additional folders of information that have been placed at the rear of this room, which I have not had the chance to study, and which have not been copied and circulated to those who have made observations.
I also note that an additional Report from the County Architect was submitted on day three of the hearing.
The mapping information made it difficult to differentiate buildings from open space, and the traffic model mapping was difficult to follow.
In addition it appears that different cordons were used for traffic modelling, building assessment, and the investigation of flora and fauna habitats.Amenities / ConservationI am concerned that three days into the hearing we were given a report by the County Architect Mr. Derek Jago that recommends that the sixteen buildings due for demolition should be retained. This is an extraordinary admission by one of the most senior officials in the County Management team.

During the Vietnam War the journalist Peter Arnett quoted an unnamed American General as stating: "We had to destroy the village in order to save it."Similar sentiments seem to be behind the proposal that we demolish sixteen homes and somehow rejuvenate Newtown Park Village.

The proposed road would lead to a significant loss of amenity for those living adjacent to the proposed route.

The plan proposes the acquisition and demolition of sixteen homes. It will bring high volumes of traffic onto Fleurville and Brookville Park. There will be a reduction of open space at Fleurville.

Up to eighty trees will be felled.
It will be very difficult for residents to cross the new road.I am concerned at the loss of built heritage, and particularly the loss of sixteen homes if the scheme proceeds.
Housing is in high demand in the County, and this is a significant loss.
I don’t believe that due consideration has been given to the worth of these buildings.
The Planning Act 2000 states:For the purpose of protecting structures, or parts of structures, which form part of the architectural heritage and which are of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest, every development plan shall include a record of protected structures, and shall include in that record every structure which is, in the opinion of the planning authority, of such interest within its functional area.
Planning and Development Act 2000 Section 51.— (1)I would expect an E.I.S. to at least examine the existing buildings under these headings yet I do not believe that this has occurred.

I also don’t believe that sufficient attention has been given to the intrinsic worth of these homes within the main EIS document.
The loss of all of these buildings amounts to more then their individual value.
It is the dramatic reduction in the quality of the built environment in the heart of the village.

Eugene Regan (FG) - MRR story from Nov. 2005

2006-10-02T22:07:00.000+01:00

Monkstown Ring Road Eugene Regan (FG)

http://www.finegael.ie/fine-gael-news.cfm/NewsID/28603/action/detail/year/2006/month/7/level/page/aid/186/

Thursday, 10 November 2005

“The Monkstown Ring Road will not involve any interference with Monkstown Avenue or other roads in the Monkstown Area despite recent claims.”
This was stated by Local Councillor Eugene Regan (FG), who raised the matter at a recent meeting in the Council.

Mr. Regan stated that “there have been widely inaccurate claims about the impact of the Monkstown Ring Road in the Monkstown area which need to be refuted.

Suggestions have been made that the Monkstown Ring Road would involve the cutting down of trees, the demolition of houses and the widening of the road at Monkstown Avenue.
These suggestions are unfounded,” Mr. Regan added.

Mr. Regan pointed out that “with a view to securing written confirmation of the position I put down some very specific questions to the County Manager on this matter at the last meeting of the Dun Laoghaire Area Committee of the Council.

In reply to these questions the Manager has confirmed that while there is an expected increase in traffic volume (16%), there is no impact on the structure of Monkstown Avenue and no intention on the part of the Council to widen the road, to cut down any tress or knock down any houses”.

Mr. Regan stated that the Manager confirmed that “the only work envisaged directly affecting Monkstown Avenue in the future, is the Development Plan objective of providing a cycleway on it. The cycleway is not proposed as part of the Monkstown Ring Road but has been included as a possible scheme in the 2006 Budget Estimates, ” Mr. Regan added.

Mr. Regan pointed out that “the Monkstown Ring Road was designed in 1972 to link Stillorgan and Dun Laoghaire via Stillorgan Park, cutting across Carysfort Avenue and Newtown Park Avenue, to a new roundabout at Deansgrange Road.

The extent of the proposed Monkstown Ring Road Scheme finishes on the Link Road close to the junction with Deansgrange Road.

No works east of this point are proposed under this project.
Accordingly the Ring Road does not involve any works on Monkstown Avenue, Mr. Regan added.

Red ribbons have been tied around all the trees that will be destroyed

2006-10-02T19:24:00.000+01:00

As part of the campaign to stop the proposed Monkstown Ring Road from running directly past your front door, red ribbons have been tied around all the trees that will be destroyed if it goes ahead.

We welcome you to help us (if you haven't already) in our effort to preserve the quality of life in our area for ourselves, our children, grandchildren, and the generations to come!

It is contended that no clear public need for the proposed road has been demonstrated

2006-10-01T23:15:00.000+01:00

Senior Planning Inspector wrote:

It is contended that no clear public need for the proposed road has been demonstrated by the Council, to justify its construction and the compulsory acquisition of the properties.

The traffic figures submitted in the EIS show a minimal reduction (1%) in congestion, and time savings on the journey between Dun Laoghaire and Stillorgan of only 30 seconds.

The proposal would not confer any clear public benefit, but would involve significant disruption, dislocation of families, community severance and severe environmental impacts.

It is submitted that there is no need for the proposed road scheme indicated in the submitted EIS. The current road network linking Stillorgan to Dun Laoghaire is satisfactory and there is no need for additional road capacity of this type in the area.

It is submitted that no clear and justifiable need for the proposed scheme has been put forward by the Council.

The proposal has been around since the 1970’s, which was a period of now discredited road planning.
Policy in relation to the provision of additional road capacity has changed in the interim, but the proposal is still being put forward, simply because it remains an objective of the roads authority.

Senior Planning Inspector wrote:

2006-10-01T22:54:00.000+01:00

It is submitted that the proposed ring road is a 30 year old proposal, which is out of date and has not taken into account changes since then, including the construction of the M50, and the DTO policies for model split, favouring public transport, including QBC’s.

It is noted that the EIS refers to the need to provide access to link the shopping centres of Stillorgan and Dun Laoghaire, but it is submitted that in reality each shopping centre serves its own catchment, and has mostly the same shopping offer.

There is no need to provide further vehicular links between these shopping centres.
No evidence has been put forward by the Council that such linkages would provide any benefit to the shopping centres – it is merely asserted to be the case.

The road is put forward on the basis that it will provide access to Dun Laoghaire Port. However, there is an existing port access route, using the N31, and it would be inappropriate and dangerous to bring large numbers of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV’s) through residential areas.

The EIS refers to the need for the road on the basis that it will connect the west of the county with Dun Laoghaire. However, it is submitted that this connection is now in place with the completion of the M50, and its junction with the N11 at Wyattville.
The need for a connection through existing housing estates, as originally envisaged in the 1970’s, when the proposed Monkstown Ring Road was originally planned, is not longer necessary.

Interesting what Barry Andrews said regarding MRR in 2004

2006-10-01T22:42:00.000+01:00

Interesting what Barry Andrews said in 2004

News Focus: IssuesDeansgrange Local Area Plan 10.12.2004

The following is the submission made by Deputy Andrews regarding the future of Deansgrange.

Submission Re Deansgrange Local Area PlanCouncillors and local residents requested this Plan on the basis that development in the area was placing an intolerable burden on the local road network.
As such, the plan should focus on ways to alleviate this problem.

1. Residential Development. The future of the grounds of the National Rehabilitation Hospital should be a consideration in this plan. This is an opportunity to consider the future of this site. There is already provision for Traveller Accommodation at the site and there are suggestions that there might be a Garda Station at the site.I would strongly recommend that this LAP considers the future of Deansgrange in the context of any proposals that may be in existence at this time for that area, especially considering its zoning.I would also recommend that in-fill development be encouraged in most cases, subject to the requirements of planning and sustainability.

2. Traffic Management. The purpose of the plan was to ensure better management of the crossroads in the context of future development in the area.As an example, the work on the roundabout at Glenageary has left the area dangerous for cyclists and pedestrians and seems to be entirely car-focussed.

The impact of a possible future Monkstown Ring Road (a six year road objective) should be considered in terms of relief of the Deansgrange Road traffic – it would be my view that the Ring Road may even add further traffic to the area.
Many people that would have accessed the Clonkeen (to the south of Deansgrange) area from the N11 via Kill Lane or the Cabinteely cross-roads may come down Stillorgan Park instead thus adding traffic volumes to the Deasngrange Cross Roads.Only larger developments are required to produce traffic management studies.

It might be appropriate to insist on smaller developments providing such reports given the sensitive nature of the area.3. Industrial development.

There is a clear reference to retaining Yankee Terrace in the MRR scheme

2006-10-01T22:41:00.000+01:00

Here is a snippit from refusal of planning permission in Annaville Avenue
There is a clear reference to retaining Yankee Terrace in the MRR scheme.
Link below will take you to the full refusal document….

http://www.pleanala.ie/REP/211/R211839.DOC

9.0 PLANNING ASSESSMENT

9.1 This assessment considers:

· The policy context

· The reasons for refusal

· Other issues

· The fallback position (D04A/0549)

The policy context

9.2 In the Plan, Transportation (11) is a central to the policy context.

The Monkstown Ring Road is a “six-year roads objective” (T 23).

While the authority states that no plans have been adopted, the Plan indicates that the proposed design shall seek to retain Yankee Terrace (p168).

A proposed Quality Bus Route passes some 300 metres to the south of the site (T19).

The Green Party strongly opposes MRR

2006-10-01T22:38:00.000+01:00

http://www.eamonryan.ie/local.shtm

An Bord Pleanala has approved the proposed Monsktown Ringroad.

The Green Party strongly opposes this decision as we believe that the plan is extremely flawed.

I feel that the road would be inappropriate and would attract large volumes of traffic on to residential roads.

Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council are currently preparing a new local area plan for Stillorgan, and the central objective of this is to reduce the volume of through traffic in the centre of the village.
The building of this road will do nothing but hinder this central objective.

I believe that the County Council should consider the negative comments from the An Bord Pleanal Inspector, who said that the road was an inappropriate form of development, which would have adverse effect on the environment and people and would not offer any significant benefit to the community.

In this regard Green Party councillors are seeking to have the road removed from the County Development Plan.

Local Government will question the board over the overriding of the inspectors’ report

2006-10-01T22:36:00.000+01:00

http://www.irishtrucker.com/news/news_detail.asp?nid=205

TDs not happy with ring-road approval Growing local opposition to the Monkstown ring-road in Dublin has prompted a Dail committee to invite An Bord Pleanala to meet with them.

The Dail Committee on Environment and Local Government will question the board over the overriding of the inspectors’ report on the controversial road.

The 15 million euros road, connecting the Stillorgan Park/Carysfort Avenue junction with Deansgrange Road via Newtown Park, will require the demolition of Yankee Terrace, a row of 11 late 19th century cottages, and five properties on Newtownpark Avenue and Annaville Terrace.

In his report, senior inspector Philip Jones recommended that the work by rejected saying he could not find any "convincing or credible evidence" to justify the construction of the road.

Story filed on September 5, 2006

Owen Keegan the opposition has really had an effect.

2006-10-01T22:35:00.000+01:00

http://www.archiseek.com/content/showthread.php?t=5253

It's getting close though, the council are meeting in 2 weeks time to vote on this.

The opposition has really had an effect.
The representatives were unaware of the depth and breadth of the opposition to this scheme.

They were under the impression that this was a good scheme, but it has no merits whatsoever, unless you count a 30 second reduction in travel time from Dun Laoghaire to Stillorgan (figure from the EIS would you believe!!!) as worth demolishing 17 homes, felling 40 trees and mutilating an entire suburban block with 30,000 cars.

As with many things, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown have got this one wildly wrong.

The only obstacles to a proper resolution to this are oafish management allied to wilful political neglect... once that's sorted out we'll save Monkstown, Deansgrange and Blackrock from destruction.... not too big a job then eh?"£$"£$%?

An Interesting change of heart by Owen Keegan

2006-10-01T22:26:00.000+01:00

http://www.archiseek.com/content/showthread.php?t=5253

Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council intend to go ahead and construct the controversial Monkstown Ring Road after receiving the go ahead in the summer by An Bord Pleanala against the recommendations of the Senior Inspector, Philip Jones.

This road will involve punching a highway through a number of residential streets and necessitates the demolition of Yankee Terrace, a late 19th Century row of cottages.

In the course of the Oral Hearing the Council's engineers disowned their own traffic figures and abandoned their own objective of improving congestion due to objectors exposing them as flawed and without foundation in reality.

Mr. Jones, in his report, described the scheme as follows:
"The proposed Monkstown Ring Road originated in the 1970’s... It is considered that the proposed road development would represent an inappropriate form of development which would encourage increased car usage and would conflict with national, regional and local policies for the sustainable development of transport"
"The proposed road development would not confer significant benefits to the community""The proposed road development would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area
"Thankfully the Members of the Council are to debate a motion at the October meeting to have this ridiculous scheme removed from the Development Plan.

However the County Manager, one Owen Keegan, has stated in his report to the Councillors that he believes the scheme should go ahead and rubbished the advice of the experienced and qualified Inspector, who throughout his thorough report utterly damned every element of this scheme.

Some Councillors may vote according to the managers advice, as would be common practice, and we would be left with vast swathes of suburbia in ruins.

Maybe the manager should read his own statements from his ample back catalogue of soundbites, some of which are laid out below: (sourced from ireland.com archive)

The new Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown county manager Owen Keegan said

"Commuting by car, in Mr. Keegan's words, is a sunset industry."

"it would be one of his aims to achieve a better balance between conservation and development."

"Commuting motorists impose significant costs on everyone else"

"We have given up trying to cater for the private car and if people haven't worked that out yet then there is a serious problem with IQ"

"The argument that private car capacity should be increased was lost a long time ago"

The point of this post is to ask those who care about the proper planning and sustainable development of Dublin, and in particular areas such as Blackrock, Stillorgan, Monkstown and Dun Laoghaire that will be severely adversely affected by this truly horrific scheme, to get in touch with the County councillors and demand that they vote in favour of the Green Party motion to have this removed from the Development Plan. We've come a long way, generally, from the transport planning philosophies of the 1970's which advocated ripping the heart out of towns to cater for motorists. However, out in Dun Laoghaire, between the mountains and the sea, these philosophies still remain.

Owen Keegan former traffic Tsar at Dublin City Council.

2006-10-01T22:22:00.000+01:00

Now he is now in your area and he is going to drive a highway through Monkstown, Brookville, Rowanbyrn and Stillorgan.

….more bad road decisions.…more gridlock….more pollution….

No consideration whatsoever for the long standing residents and established communities.

Just slap in a CPO and bulldoze people out of their houses (16 if I am not mistaken).

Fracture established communities and run the old reliable couple of miles of BLACKTOP right thro the heart of your community.

Just what we need more routes to run even more Trucks from Stenaline RORO and more vehicles 30,000 daily on year one (that’s 1 vehicle every 2.8 seconds).

What about the idea of cutting down on traffic and going down the decent public transport route??

Is it time to name and shame all those public officials that vote with Owen Keegans error of judgement for this un-necessary ring road.

No body wants this road not even An Bord Pleanala’s Inspector.

Don’t let the government squander any more of your money.

2006-10-01T22:12:00.000+01:00

Now late in 2006 we are fast approaching the cusp of a fresh election process, yet it would appear that no lessons have been learnt over the years regarding public spending, infrastructure projects and much more.

Some that just roll off the tongue are:

Hospital Beds (the lack of)
The health service’s (downhill slalom)
The tribunals (billions wasted)
The brown envelopes (see above)
The apparent cash for favours (see above)
The port tunnel (was built the wrong size)
The Luas (not meeting in the middle)
The lack of decent public transport
The lack of park and ride facilities
The lack of safe school transport
The traffic gridlock situation (Thanks Owen Keegan)
The red cow roundabout
The toll bridge
The M50
The indirect taxation (ever increasing)
The unfair treatment of our elderly (they built the country)
The deaths on our roads (ever increasing)
The lack of Garda (everywhere)
The closing of rural Garda stations
The judicial system (unable to let the Garda convict)
The Yellow Pack Garda (forced upon us)

I could go on and on, but I think you are starting to get the picture and can piece this shambles together yourself.

With all this behind them the people in power are planning yet another huge waste of Tax payer’s money right literally on your very doorstep.
The Monkstown Ring Road (MRR)

Already 300,000 Euro of your money has gone into an oral hearing, not to mention any other consultant’s fees to date.
The findings of this oral hearing were…that the MRR is not necessary, and was a legacy plan for the entire area prior to the conception and eventual building of the M50 and its Wyatville junction.
These findings have been totally ignored by An Bord Pleanala.
By the way An Bord Pleanala are an autonomous body answerable to no one. Not even you the tax payer (how did that ever happen).
An Bord Pleanala should not have this power to run roughshod over the findings.

Just think about all these issues and draw your own conclusion.
The sole purpose of this communiqué is to make you sit up and see what is going on right under your very nose.

Don’t let bulldozers destroy your home and run the couple of miles of Blacktop through your neighbourhood.

Don’t let the government squander any more of your money.

What The Proposed Ring Road Will Add To YOUR Life

2006-10-01T22:01:00.000+01:00

***News Flash***
Anti-Monkstown Ring Road (A-MRR)

What The Proposed Ring Road Will Add To YOUR Life

30,000+ Vehicles Per Day (1 Vehicle Every 2.8 Seconds)

Noise - 24/7!

Pollution.

Dirt and litter.

Fumes.

Collisions.

Health Hazards.

Danger for Pedestrians and Cyclists.

Danger for our Children.

Danger to Pets.

Peak Time Traffic Jams.

Long queues to drive out of the estate.

Easier and much faster access and escape routes for Criminals.

SAY NO TO THE RING ROAD!

PEOPLE POWER WORKS!!!

Even In Torrential Rain A Great Success.
Over 400+ concerned residents from Brookville, Rowanbyrn, Fleurville, Monkstown and Stillorgan support the A-MRR Protest

Owen Keegan is circling the wagons

2006-10-01T21:46:00.000+01:00

Owen Keegan was aware of the growing local opposition to DLRCOCO proposed Monkstown Ring Road (MRR).
Owen Keegan took the unprecedented action of removing the DLRCOCO vote for the proposed MRR from September 11th meeting and moving the vote on to October 09th
Owens Keegans sole purpose in doing that was to gain sufficient time to reinforce his case to have the October 09th vote passed.
Owens Keegan is hoping to reinforce his case for DLRCOCO councillors to pass the vote October 09th.
Owens Keegans is to try to convince DLRCOCO councillors of the validity of this road, the positive impact it will have to traffic in the area and how urgent is to do this right now.
Owen Keegan will try in no uncertain terms to rubbish An Bord Pleanala’s Inspector’s decision that the road should not go ahead.
Owen Keegan is unlikely to mention that the true figure for vehicle usage in year 1 will be 30,000 vehicles per day (1 vehicle every 2.8 seconds)
Owen Keegan is unlikely to mention the danger to the children and the community by allowing 30,000 vehicles cut thro the settled suburban estates.
Owen Keegan is unlikely to mention the Air pollution churned out by 30,000 vehicles per day.
Owen Keegan is unlikely to mention the impact to local health by such pollution.

Owen Keegan is unlikely to mention that An Bord Pleanala’s Inspector said “ I consider that the EIS was significantly deficient in terms of its analysis of the impacts of the proposed road scheme on human beings….the claimed benefits for the proposed scheme are not proven, while the dis-benefits to the community are evident”.

Owen Keegan is unlikely to mention that An Bord Pleanala’s Inspector said “having considered the entirety of the documentation I am fully satisfied that the proposed scheme would lead to severe and adverse impacts on the residential amenities of the residential communities alongside it”.

Owen Keegan is unlikely to mention that An Bord Pleanala’s Inspector said “I conclude that the examination of alternatives in the EIS was inadequate, and inconsistent with the overall analysis of the impacts of the development as a whole. This of itself is sufficient reason for the Bord to refuse approval of the proposed scheme”.

A-MRR March Saturday September 30 2006 @14h00

2006-10-01T21:20:00.000+01:00

Monkstown Residents Plan March To Stop Controversial €15m Ring Road.

Residents of Monkstown, Brookville, Rowanbyrn, Fleurville and Stillorgan in south Dublin are to stage a protest march Saturday 30th September and lobby councillors in a campaign to get the proposed €15 million Monkstown Ring Road scrapped.

The road, which has been proposed since the 1970s, was earlier this year approved by An Bord Pleanala and is designed to carry up to 30,000 Vehicles a day (1 vehicle every 2.8 seconds).
It would link Stillorgan Park with the Stradbrook area of Blackrock.

At 30,000 vehicles a day, (1 vehicle every 2.8 seconds) the traffic volumes would be higher than levels on the Dublin to Sligo road at the toll motorway.

It will require the demolition of Yankee Terrace, a row of eleven 19th-centurv cottages, and five properties on Newtownpark Avenue and Annaville Terrace.Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said the road would cater for the transportation requirements of the county, promote and strengthen Dun Laoghaire and Stillorgan, attract traffic from less suitable roads and make Newtown Park village (which is a figment of some urban planners colourful imagination) more accessible.

Locals along the route claim the bypass is being put in place to facilitate large-scale redevelopment at Stillorgan Shopping Centre, the Stillorgan Bowl and the Blakes site, via Stillorgan Park with other large-scale Hi-density Hi-rise developments by Cosgrave’s at Dun Laoghaire Golf Club.

They also claim the bypass would become another access route between Dun Laoghaire Port and the N11 for Stenaline RORO traffic to the M50

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown county manager Owen Keegan has scheduled Monday October 11th for a council debate on the bypass, at which he will seek approval to start construction.
Opponents have written to all members of the council urging them not to support the plan.

They are also planning a protest march for Saturday next 30th September, at Brookville Park & Rowanbyrn Junction, to march the entire route of the proposed road.

A spokesman for opponents of the scheme, Sean Mulvihill, said he hoped to see 250 to 300 people on Saturday's protest march to send a message to councillors.