Labour Cllr John McDonagh has strongly criticized An Bord Pleanála for approving student accommodation at Westside Shopping Centre, calling it the wrong location and a decision that disregards the needs of the local community.
“This development will take over 50% of the car park spaces, creating major difficulties for local businesses and residents,” he told the Advertiser.
“The university has 250 acres of land in Dangan, some of this land should be used for student accommodation like other universities in Ireland and Europe do to provide student accommodation on campus — yet this is being built in a commercial area instead,” said Cllr McDonagh.
He also highlighted concerns about the negative impact on the shopping centre, saying that one shop has already closed.
“An Bord Pleanála should never have given planning permission for this development. They had no consideration for the local community, and this is a bad planning decision that will have long-term consequences,” he added.
Cllr McDonagh expressed disappointment at seeing fencing go up this week, saying it brings home the reality of what is happening.
“This project is moving forward despite the clear objections from the community. It’s frustrating to see such disregard for the people who live and work here,” he said.
Cllr McDonagh is calling for more responsible planning decisions that balance student housing needs with the interests of the wider community.
