Coastal review criticised

There is mounting concern about the progress of the Booterstown to Sandycove Coastal Review currently being undertaken by D·n Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.

The review, which was to concentrate on the adoption of an appropriate development plan for the coastal strip, was first agreed at the council's annual general meeting in 2000.

But after more than 40 submissions from individuals and groups, some locals have complained about what they see as a slow pace of progress.

D·n Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council says the review of the coastal zone between Booterstown Marsh, the boundary with the Dublin Corporation area, and the Forty Foot is still being prepared, but Mr Stephen Devaney of the Monkstown Seapoint and Salthill Residents' Association claims locals have become frustrated that the review has not been completed and a plan for the preservation of the built architecture and marine environment has not been published.

The Monkstown, Seapoint and Salthill Resident's Association lodged a detailed report of what works the association felt needed to be done, and by which agency.

The submission is critical of a number of State and private agencies which it accuses of failing to maintain buildings.

It proposes the renewal of obsolete areas, sustainable development in the vicinity of DART stations, preservation of the harbour and granite sea walls, conservation of the Regency and Victorian terraces, maintenance of public parks, roads and paths, and makes recommendations on public transport.

It is critical of the council's stewardship in a number of areas, for example of the Martello Tower. Pointing out that it is a National Monument as well as being a Protected Structure the submission notes "the fact that it is in the council's control makes it even more reprehensible that it is in such a sorry, neglected and very unprotected state."

According to D·n Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the ultimate plan will be more detailed than the County Development Plan and will provide a framework for co-ordinated development "including the improvement of amenities and conservation of the coastal zone." It will also provide a context for planning applications and encourage renewal of derelict and under-used sites.