[HOUSE NAME REDACTED]
Lee Road,
Cork
23/04/2022
Dear Sirs/Madam,
I wish to object in the strongest terms to the proposed amendment to the Cork City Development Plan in regard to the site referred to as “Lands at Lee Road”, 2,97 and2.98.
This proposal entails the loss of green belt which provides essential environmental protection to the area. This proposal would have a grave impact on sustainability, biodiversity and wildlife in this area. Additionally it will utterly change the landscape as viewed from the Lee Valley a designated scenic route.
Existing housing in Hollymount, the immediately adjacent area can be accurately described as rural in character with a limited number of low density units surrounded by green belt and farming fields. The proposal to build 137 housing units alongside is in conflict with best practice planning and will have a very adverse affect on the residents and the amenity that the green belt provides to their lives.
The Lee Road is a narrow road and has a speed limit of 80km/h and has already a high traffic density which makes it very unsuitable for the increase in traffic which would result with this type of development. The road is is narrow because it is bordered at one side by the river so that there is no room for a cycle lane and indeed in my view cycling is hazardous. To have new additional traffic will give rise to increase hazards. Bus service is almost non existent. There is no regular bus service except at the Western Road which is at least 30 minutes away from the site on foot. Despite what has been said this site is at least 45 minutes on foot from the city centre. So it certainly fails to meet the criteria of a “15 minute city”.
In conclusion, rezoning this site with loss of the green belt would be a great loss to people and families in the area and could turn out to be a first step in promoting further erosion of the Cork City hinterland. I am grateful for the opportunity to submit my objections for your consideration.
Philip Cleary.