An Bord Pleanála concedes in challenge to permission for 205 apartments in Phibsborough

An Bord Pleanála will not be contesting a challenge to permission for the development of 205 build-to-rent apartments in Phibsborough, Dublin, the High Court has been told.

Two residents’ groups brought legal actions aimed at overturning the May 2021 approval for the apartment blocks ranging from three to 12 storeys on a site on Phibsborough Road, near Cross Guns bridge.

The groups, representing residents of Leinster Street North and Shandon Park, claimed the proposal represents “significant over-development” of the Old Bakery site.

On Monday, their counsel, Neil Steen SC, instructed by FP Logue solicitor, Eoin Brady, told the court An Bord Pleanála had written to say it would not be defending the case. It is understood the concession comes in relation to the proposed build’s compliance with daylight and sunlight guidelines for urban buildings and new apartments.

Hilary Fannin: ‘You’re faced with something so mad – maybe you’re going to die’

---

Is it better to buy an electric car now or to wait? Conor Pope and Michael McAleer debate the options

---

Gifting to your children? Make sure you don’t leave them with a big tax bill

---

Fintan O'Toole: We are facing the terrifying result of the West’s three stupid mistakes in the Middle East

---

Mr Justice Richard Humphreys, with consent from the board, vacated the May hearing date for this case and another action, brought by Dundalk resident John Conway and Louth Environmental Group, challenging the same development.

The parties will return to court next week to provide an update about the proposed final orders.

[ Locals resist Kimmage apartment plans ]

In their action against An Bord Pleanála, with developer Bindford Ltd a notice party, Leinster Street North Residents Association and Shandon Residents Association said their members would be directly and significantly affected by the proposed strategic housing development.

The applicants said the higher “average daylight factor” standard of 2 per cent for kitchens should have been applied rather the 1.5 per cent figure the board accepted in the application.