HSE oxygen supplier hits out at 1,102-unit apartment scheme
THE main supplier of medical oxygen to the HSE in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic is objecting to plans for a large-scale ‘build to rent’ apartment complex on the outskirts of Dublin.
Shorevale Investments Ltd is seeking a 10-year planning permission for 1,102 residential units made up of 992 build to rent apartments and 110 apartments. The plan also includes a 203-unit build-to-rent shared accommodation scheme.
The overall proposal comprises nine buildings ranging in height from seven storeys to an 18-storey building that will accommodate offices on a site at the Royal Liver Assurance Retail Park on the Old Naas
Road, Dublin 12. However, BOC Gases has its Irish production HQ on a site adjacent to the proposed development and is objecting to the residential component so close to an industrial site.
In recent months, BOC Gases has been ramping up its operations to build stocks of medical gases to ensure the company’s supply chain is in the best position to respond to customer requirements in dealing with Covid-19.
A HSE spokeswoman said last month there is an extensive programme of up-scaling supply with BOC Gases to ensure ample supply in all facilities, saying BOC Gases is the primary supplier of medical oxygen in Ireland.
The spokeswoman said medical oxygen is a critical element as people will require ventilation and other prescribed oxygen treatments in dealing with Covid-19.
In an objection against the residential development, BOC Gases has told Dublin City Council that it has no intention of relocating from the site and claims the planning application contravenes the local area plan.
BOC Gases has told the council the planned residential development along its western boundary is not a suitable environment for residential use due to human health concerns generated by the existing major industrial production facilities.
Shorevale recently lodged revised plans and BOC Gases says it maintains its original objection to the proposal.
Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has also objected to the plan.
The most recent accounts show BOC Gases Ireland Ltd – which also supplies industrial gases – recorded pre-tax profits of €44.66m in 2018 as revenues increased to €128.44m.
BOC Gases has built its stocks to help fight against the virus