113 Douglas homes stalled by residents’ objection

Douglas Housing Plan Faces Traffic Backlash

Plans for a new housing development in Douglas, promising over 100 homes and a creche, have hit a roadblock.Local residents are raising concerns about teh project’s potential impact on already heavy traffic in the area.

Johnson & Perrott Property Development Ltd.secured initial approval for the development on december 18th, 2024. The project, split into two applications, includes 93 homes and a creche on one site, and 20 homes on another, both located on South Douglas Road between Rathmore Lawn and Tramore Lawn.

in their planning statement, the developers emphasized the project’s high quality, claiming it would “assist in the delivery of local, regional, and national level planning policy objectives.” They highlighted that the two applications “tie-in seamlessly… delivering an attractive, enduring scheme that is in accordance with national, regional, and local planning policy.” The developers also pointed to the inclusion of the creche, stating that it “provides necessary childcare services for the resident community.” They believe the project aligns with sustainable planning principles,promoting efficient urban development and increased residential density in suitable locations.

However, these claims are facing significant resistance from locals.

They cite existing traffic congestion, with one resident stating that the development would “make a challenging situation even worse.” Concerns have also been raised about the proposed 5.5-meter entrance width, deemed insufficient to handle the anticipated traffic volume and raising safety concerns.

Additional worries center around the development’s size and density, boundary lines, and car parking provisions. The creche, with its single vehicle access, two drop-off spaces, and four staff parking spaces, has been criticized for its inadequate parking and potential to worsen traffic congestion.

Now, the fate of this ambitious project rests with An Bord Pleanála, who are expected to make a decision by May 20th.

Mitigating Traffic Congestion: A Developer’s Challenge

Given the concerns raised, what steps could the developers take to alleviate anticipated traffic congestion?

Could they consider:

Enhanced Public Transportation Access:
Improving public transport links to the development could encourage residents to rely less on cars. This could involve working with local authorities to enhance bus routes or explore options for light rail connections.
Traffic Calming Measures:
Implementing traffic calming measures within the development,such as speed bumps or roundabouts,could help reduce vehicle speeds and improve pedestrian safety.
Cycle infrastructure:
Providing dedicated cycle lanes and secure bicycle parking facilities could encourage residents to cycle to nearby amenities, further reducing car dependence. staggered Construction Phase: Constructing the development in phases could help mitigate traffic disruption by spreading the construction workload over time.* Improved Parking Management: Implementing smart parking solutions or encouraging carpooling could optimize existing parking spaces and reduce the number of vehicles on the road.

Addressing these concerns proactively will be crucial for the developers if they want to secure community support for their project.

Douglas Housing Development Sparks Traffic Concerns

A proposed housing development in Douglas, promising over 100 new homes and a creche, has ignited debate among residents. while the project aims to address the need for housing and childcare services, many locals are raising concerns about the potential strain on already congested roads.

Sarah Murphy, a Douglas resident, voiced her worries to Archyde News, emphasizing the heavy traffic on south Douglas Road, particularly during peak hours. “My main worry is the impact on traffic,” she stated.”Adding over 100 new homes and a creche will inevitably worsen congestion and make the roads even more treacherous.”

Despite developers arguing that the project aligns with sustainable planning principles and will efficiently utilize existing infrastructure, Murphy remains unconvinced. “While I understand the need for new housing,” she said, “I question whether this dense development is the right solution for our community. The proposed entrance to the estate is also too narrow to handle the anticipated traffic volume. It raises serious safety concerns, notably for schoolchildren.”

Even though the developers highlight the inclusion of a creche as a positive aspect, Murphy expressed concerns about its adequacy. “While childcare is essential,” she stated, “the proposed creche seems woefully undersized and lacks adequate parking.This could create parking havoc for parents, residents, and even emergency vehicles.”

Murphy hopes that An Bord Pleanála, the national planning authority, will thoroughly consider residents’ concerns and prioritize the safety and well-being of the community. she suggests potential solutions such as revising the project’s density, widening the entrance, or improving parking provisions.

The fate of this housing project now hinges on An Bord Pleanála’s decision, expected by May 20th. This project raises critically important questions about balancing development needs with the well-being of existing communities.

Considering that the article focuses on a proposed development in Douglas facing traffic concerns, how should developers prioritize lasting transportation options, like improved public transport and cycling infrastructure, when planning new projects?

Douglas Housing Plan Faces Traffic Backlash: Developer Seeks Allay Resident Concerns

Local residents are voicing concerns about the impact a new development in Douglas, promising over 100 homes and a creche, will have on already heavy traffic. We spoke to John O’Brien, representative from Johnson & Perrott Property Development Ltd., the company behind the project, to gain his perspective on these concerns.

Interview with John O’Brien, Johnson & Perrott Property Development Ltd.

Archyde News: Thank you for speaking with us today, Mr. O’Brien. The proposed development in Douglas has generated meaningful discussion, notably regarding its potential impact on traffic. can you elaborate on the developers’ stance regarding these concerns?

John O’Brien: Its understandable that residents have concerns about traffic.We share the ambition to create a thriving community while also ensuring minimal disruption to existing residents.

we firmly believe this project is designed to adhere to sustainable planning principles and efficiently utilize existing infrastructure. The development will not only provide much-needed housing and childcare services but also contribute to the economic revitalization of the area.

Archyde News: Several residents have expressed worries about the projected traffic volume, particularly the proposed entrance width and its adequacy in handling the anticipated traffic flow. what measures is Johnson & Perrott taking to address these concerns?

John O’Brien: We understand the importance of ensuring safe traffic flow. We have engaged with local transportation experts to carefully design the site access and entrance. We’ve carefully considered the traffic patterns and flow in the area throughout the design process.

We are confident that our plans are well-aligned with best practices for traffic management and will ensure the safety of both residents and commuters.

Archyde News: Critics have also highlighted the limited parking provisions, particularly for the creche. Can you provide further details on the parking arrangements and how they have been thoughtfully planned?

John O’Brien: We acknowledge the crucial need for adequate parking at the creche and have incorporated a thorough parking plan. We believe the number of spaces allocated provides a sufficient solution to meet the evolving needs of both children and staff.

Our aim is to create a welcoming and functional environment that minimizes any potential parking inconveniences. We’re open to further discussion with the community to ensure their concerns are fully addressed.

Archyde News: Many residents are urging option solutions, such as improving public transport links or exploring cycling infrastructure, to alleviate traffic congestion. Would Johnson & Perrott consider incorporating such sustainable transportation options to enhance the project’s appeal?

John O’Brien: We recognize the importance of promoting sustainable transportation options and are continuously exploring ways to integrate them into our projects.we’re open to further discussions with local authorities and the community regarding the feasibility of incorporating improved public transport links and cycling infrastructure around the development.

We believe that a cohesive approach that prioritizes sustainable transportation choices can significantly contribute to reducing traffic congestion and creating a more livable and environmentally kind community for all.

Archyde News: thank you for your time and insights, Mr. O’Brien.

What are your thoughts on balancing new development with traffic management in your community? Share your perspectives in the comments below.