An appeal by local residents against a proposed waste facility in a north Dublin park has concluded at an oral hearing of An Bord Pleanála.
Dublin City Council is seeking approval for a green waste and civic amenity recycling facility on a 1.02 hectare site in St Anne's Park, Raheny. Over the three-day hearing, residents voiced their opposition on grounds of health hazard from emissions, increased traffic and noise.
An Bord Pleanála inspector Mr Kevin Moore indicated that a decision would be made on or before December 16th. Concluding submissions were made yesterday by representatives of both sides.
Mr Brian Cummins, for St Anne's Residents Association, said the park was still zoned as an amenity area and there were genuine concerns about the operation of the plant as the council had an appalling record in carrying out proper procedures. Residents had also raised serious questions about the presence of airborne spores and the effects on health. These had not been properly addressed by the council which had a dismissive attitude, Mr Cummins contended.
Ms Carol O'Farrell, for Dublin City Council, said the proposal was consistent with the waste-management plan. A licence had to be obtained from the Environmental Protection Agency before the facility could operate, she said. "A waste licence will not be granted unless the EPA is satisfied that emissions comply with accepted standards."
The application to the EPA related to disposal and recovery activities, and the council's view was that the facility was acceptable, she added.
On Tuesday, Mr Tom Loftus, head of waste-management services at the council, said composting would not be taking place so potential spores would be reduced. The shredding facility would be inside.