Lord Mayor objects to shared living plan on the site of famous pub
THE Lord Mayor of Dublin, Hazel Chu, has claimed a developer’s plan to construct a 100-bed shared living space on the site of Dublin’s old Kiely’s pub in Donnybrook “poses serious health concerns” in the context of the Covid pandemic.
The Green Party politician’s objection is one of more than 100 lodged against Westridge Real Estate’s contentious plan, which involves the demolition of the former public house in Dublin 4 to make way for the seven-storey development.
The pub was a popular watering hole for rugby fans due to its proximity to the Donnybrook and RDS sports stadiums.
The planning application follows Westridge acquiring the property for more than €5m last year. The 100 bedrooms on offer will range from 18.2 sq m to 27 sq m and all rooms are to have twin beds, a bathroom and a closet. Most will have a kitchenette as well.
“In the midst of a dangerous pandemic where we are being asked to socially distance ourselves, the planned proposal is also unduly hasty and poses serious health concerns,” said Lord Mayor Chu in her objection.
“This number of people living in such close proximity creates conditions that spread disease, which will become further exacerbated if someone becomes ill and can’t self-isolate because they share kitchens, bedrooms and lifts.”
The Lord Mayor is one of a number of politicians to express Covid-19 concerns over the plan.
“It would not be right for Dublin City Council to approve a development that may threaten public health,” wrote Labour Senator Ivana Bacik in her objection.
Documents lodged with the planning application say the applicants are preparing Covid-related policies for residents.
The planning consultants for the applicants, John Spain and Associates, has said the site is eminently suitable for shared accommodation as it is in the centre of Donnybook village.
A spokesman for Westridge Real Estate declined to give a response, saying they cannot comment on live applications.
The city council is due to make a decision on the application later this month.