Proposed Strategic Housing Development
Kenelm, Deer Park, Howth, Co. Dublin

Introduction

This project comprises a Strategic Housing Development (SHD) proposal for the Kenelm site located in Deer Park, Howth, County Dublin. The development seeks to address the significant housing shortage in the Howth area while respecting the unique character and environmental considerations of this coastal peninsula.

Project Overview

The proposed development includes:

• 115 residential units comprising a mix of dwelling types:
• 42 one-bedroom apartments
• 48 two-bedroom apartments
• 25 three-bedroom duplex units
• Two multi-story blocks ranging from 4 to 6 stories in height
• Community facilities including:
• Community room (120m)
• Crche facility (150m)
• Underground parking facility with 125 spaces
• Landscaped open spaces and amenity areas

Location and Context

The Kenelm site is situated within the Deer Park area of Howth, approximately 1.2km southeast of Howth Village. The site is bounded by:

• Deer Park Hotel and Golf Course to the north
• Existing residential developments to the east and west
• Parkland and open spaces to the south

The location benefits from excellent connectivity to public transportation, with Howth DART station approximately 15 minutes walking distance. Several bus routes serve the area, providing direct connections to Dublin city center.

Design Approach

The architectural design for this development takes inspiration from the maritime and local architectural heritage of Howth while meeting contemporary design standards. Key design features include:

• Building massing stepped to reduce visual impact
• Use of natural materials complementing the surrounding context
• High-quality landscaping with native planting schemes
• Sustainable Design Approach achieving BER A3 rating for all units
• Incorporation of renewable energy sources including solar panels

140 spaces

Aspect	Detail
Total Site Area	2.8 hectares
Height of Buildings	4-6 stories (stepped design)
Density	41 units per hectare
Open Space Provision	30% of site area
Car Parking	125 underground spaces
Cycle Parking

Infrastructure and Services

The development includes comprehensive infrastructure improvements:

• Upgrades to local road network including junction improvements
• Enhanced pedestrian and cycling connections
• Upgraded utility services including water, drainage and electricity supply
• High-speed telecommunications infrastructure
• Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) including rainwater harvesting

Economic Benefits

The proposed development delivers significant benefits to the local community and wider economy:

• Provision of much-needed housing in an area with significant supply shortages
• Creation of approximately 120 jobs during construction phase
• Long-term employment opportunities through the crche and maintenance services
• Increase in local population supporting local businesses and services
• Contribution to local authority rates

Environmental Considerations

A comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) has been prepared to evaluate potential environmental impacts. Key environmental considerations include:

• Protection of existing trees and hedgerows
• Enhancement of biodiversity through carefully designed planting schemes
• Minimization of construction noise and dust impacts through carefully planned construction methodology
• Energy-efficient design exceeding current Building Regulations requirements
• Sustainable construction materials and methods

Traffic and Transportation Assessment

A comprehensive Traffic and Transportation Assessment has been undertaken to evaluate the impact of the development on the local transportation network. Key findings include:

• Parking provision complies with Dublin City Development Plan standards
• Adequate public transportation capacity to serve the development
• Implementation of traffic calming measures on Deer Park Road
• Enhanced pedestrian and cycling infrastructure connecting to Howth Village

Community Consultation

Prior to submission, the development team engaged in community consultation through:

• Virtual public information exhibition held in November 2020
• Meetings with local residents' associations
• Consultation with Howth Community Council
• Engagement with local elected representatives

A number of design amendments were made in response to feedback received, including reduction of building heights at certain elevations and enhancement of boundary treatments.

Statutory Planning Context

The development is prepared in accordance with:

• Dublin City Development Plan 2016-2022
• Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy 2019-2031
• Dublin City Housing Strategy 2016-2021
• Draft Howth / Sutton Local Area Plan
• National Planning Framework (Project Ireland 2040)

Next Steps

Following submission:

• The application will be assessed by An Bord Pleanla under the Strategic Housing Development process
• Submissions and observations may be made by members of the public within 5 weeks of receipt of the application
• Further information may be requested by the Board
• A decision is expected within 16 weeks of submission

Further Information

All planning documents, including the EIAR and Design Statement, are available for inspection:

• Online at www.plan.fingal.ie
• At the offices of Fingal County Council Planning Department
• At Howth Public Library during normal opening hours