Red Rock Donnybrook is set to launch another effort to redevelop a plot in Dublin 4, previously a Circle K petrol station at the crossroads of Donnybrook Road and Brookvale Road. This decision comes in light of the Keith Craddock owned company’s intention to submit a planning application for a 225-bed, 10-story student accommodation complex on this site. Offering 193 bedrooms purely for student lodgings, the ambitious plan also proposes a café and a retail unit.
Over the past three years, Red Rock has faced significant challenges, including legal and planning disputes with local residents, in its pursuit to develop this 0.131 hectare space. The company’s proposal for a 12-story 84-unit build-to-rent apartment complex was denied by the Dublin City Council in February 2021 after strong local objection. The An Bord Pleanála permits a downsized 10-story 68-unit scheme, overturning the rejection recommended by its own inspector.
However, this approved scheme encountered roadblocks after Eglinton Residents Association and Ramleh Villas tenant, David Clarke initiated High Court proceedings against the appeals board grant in January 2023.
With the formal planning notice now announced and the application set to be delivered to Dublin City Council imminently, it is likely a fresh dispute will flare between some local residents and Red Rock over this new student accommodation proposal.
According to the notice, the scheme incorporates 141 single rooms, eight accessible rooms, 24 double rooms, eight private studios, and eight dual bedrooms. The accommodation also boasts shared study zones, gaming areas, TV lounges, communal kitchens, laundry facilities and a gym. The inclusion of 185 bicycle spaces is another highlight of the proposal. The existing petrol station, and related structures on the site are slated for demolition.
Planning consultants John Spain & Associates, on behalf of Red Rock Donnybrook, first unveiled these plans of a student accommodation development in a submission to An Bord Pleanála last October, referencing the quality bus corridor scheme from Bray to city centre. Mr Spain confirmed that his client was supportive of the Bray to city centre premium bus corridor and the proposed design of the student accommodation bears this in mind. The submission from John Spain & Associates disclosed that the lands owned by Red Rock are likely to be acquired.