Johnny Ronan’s proposed 17-storey, multi-purpose project in Dublin’s docklands is said to have a devastating effect and is considered excessively harsh on the local housing environment, according to an objection made by a management company representing 186 homeowners at Clarion Quay in Dublin 1.
The planning application by Ronan Real Estate Group (RGRE), owned by Mr. Ronan, is integral to the reformation of Citigroup’s current European headquarters at 1 North Wall Quay. The project entails the removal of a six-story office block and the establishment of four new buildings spanning from nine to 17 storeys high in its place.
The RGRE’s affiliate, NWQ Devco Limited, has applied for a 10-year planning permission. John Spain, a planning consultant involved with the application, stated in a report that the forthcoming project promises a beneficial transformation of the waterfront area through its first-rate design which is both reactive and cognizant of its riverside context.
Spain argues that the design aims to contribute significantly to the cityscape in terms of design quality, street vibrancy, social and cultural interests, and the creation of an outstanding modern workspace.
Nonetheless, John Bird, a planning consultant who objected on behalf of the homeowners, asserted that an approval could stifle future housing prospects in the city. Representing Clarion Quay Management Company (CQMC), Bird pointed out that the approval might create a precedent where no city resident feels that their housing amenities are considered or given protection, particularly in transitional areas.
His clients hold substantial concerns that the proposed project, due to inevitable overlooking and overshadowing, would have a considerable adverse effect on the shared spaces and the enjoyment of residential amenities. Bird further remarked that the idea of city living and the ’15-minute city’ initiative would also be negatively affected, arguing that the planned project will inflict a damaging and disproportionate impact on the environment, contradicting the aspiration for a human-scaled urban and city region.
David Ward, the secretary for the Clarion Quay Management Company, expressed his astonishment and concern over a certain proposal to the council. Underlining the glaring disregard for Clarion Quay and its 300-400 inhabitants in the proposal, he urged the Dublin City Council to dismiss it. According to Mr. Ward, the plans for the site were grossly disproportionate with the place, context, and era. Despite this, the representative for RGRE kept silent when asked for a response to the objection raised by the management company.