Rows of Aer Lingus planes on the stand at Dublin Airport. Photo: Rolling News
Fingal County Council has stalled plans by DAA, operator of Dublin Airport, to construct an observation point for aircraft spotters close to the airport.
The council has sought further information from DAA on its planning application across a range of issues, including DAA’s “disappointing” decision to omit toilet facilities from the new observation point facility.
The council planner’s report stated that the absence of toilet facilities is contrary to the ethos of universal design and quality placemaking. The report states that the consideration of alternatives such as “eco-toilets” or portaloos should be explored.
As part of the application, DAA had planned to put in place an elevated viewing platform with sheltered viewing structure, seating and tables and improved parking facilities with 22 car-parking spaces. A planning report lodged with the application said the proposal represented “an important investment in community facilities” at the airport and would contribute “to a safer, more comfortable and more inclusive plane-spotting experience by providing amenities for users”.
The council said that it welcomed the proposal ‘in principle’
The report said that the aircraft observation facility would formalise the position of the “airport viewing area” – known locally as “the Mound” – in its current informal location.
In its request for further information on the planning application, the council stated that it welcomes the proposal in principle “and is a welcome improvement from the existing baseline”.
The council said that in order to fully assess the development, further details are required – in relation to access and egress, public amenity, landscaping, tree protection, construction and the environment. The council also asked DAA to carry out a dedicated traffic survey of the adjacent road.
Rows of Aer Lingus planes on the stand at Dublin Airport. Photo: Rolling News
The council added that it remains to be satisfied that the issue of ad-hoc parking has been adequately dealt with, but said the planned provision of 22 car-parking spaces and 10 bicycle spaces was deemed sufficient.
In a comprehensive submission against the scheme, Liam O’Gradaigh of SMTW Environmental DAC told the council the application should be refused on the grounds that the airport should utilise Dublin Airport zoned grounds.
In a submission, Councillor Dean Mulligan commented on the absence of toilet facilities in the plan, stating that the lack of basic amenities was a critical flaw. The application will become “live” once more when further information has been provided.
