€300m marina plan has taken over our town
Wednesday November 11 2009
Angry Greystones residents say a €300m development has "taken over" the town's beach and put wildlife at risk -- and have now protested to Europe.
The group, Concerned Citizens, say their voices were "not heard" on the marina development in the town, which is giving a facelift to the Victorian harbour.
The development will include a 230-berth marina, new retail facilities, including cafes and restaurants, 341 residential units and a new square with private parking.
Concerned Citizens say that they have now sent "hundreds" of signatures to the European Committee on Petitions voicing their concerns about the development, even though it was given approval by An Bord Pleanala last August 2007.
One citizen, who did not wish to be named, said: "People are going mad. We want it to be investigated and we have to bring it to Europe."
He added: "Various complaints and appeals have all fallen on deaf ears within Ireland, which is why we are making this petition to the European Parliament Committee.
Wicklow Co Council is adamant the development was granted approval after two rigorous oral hearings and a long period of deliberation by An Bord Pleanala.
But Concerned Citizens are calling for a public inquiry into An Bord Pleanala.
The group claims that the Greystones coastline is being subjected to destruction and is "being ripped apart" by mechanical diggers to make way for the residential units.
Their petition states that Greystones harbour and shoreline are "teeming with wildlife", all of which is seriously affected by the building projects.
However, Wicklow County Council says issues relating to the environment were dealt with at the hearings.
hnews@herald.ie
- Geraldine Gittens
