UNION CAFÉ – some considerations

The proposed scheme has taken many of the residents’ concerns into consideration in this revised application.

The absence of a retail element is very welcome.

The layout and physical scale of development is a major improvement on the previous proposal.

That said, some serious issues of concern remain.

Parking

The parking provision is significantly short of what we this is necessary which if approved will almost certainly result in parking in nearby residential areas.

Traffic movements

There needs to be a specific traffic plan to deal with the additional traffic in an area already experiencing serious traffic congestion.

External finishes

The external cladding /finish is a matter of concern.

The architect’s covering letter to DLR says that the exterior of the apartments will have aluminium cladding panels, of pale gold colour. Our view is that granite is more appropriate in Mt. Merrion.

We can advocate using a “Wicklow” granite finish on both these developments, in the context of the granite character of Mt. Merrion.

Noise

Possible night time noise from the pub/restaurant – including from the terraces.

Pedestrian safety

The proposed traffic layout poses serious risks to pedestrians in the immediate vicinity.

Construction impacts

Excavation of granite bedrock – this matter should be clarified as far as possible.