Comments from March to July 2001. You may find that the page loads slowly because of the volume of comments received.
Protect Kilmainham Jail
|
Comments from March to July 2001. You may find that the page loads slowly because of the volume of comments received. |
Protect Kilmainham Jail |
Home Kilmainham
Jail Proposed
Blocks Why
we object What
you can do Visual
Impact Architectural
Model
Sign Guestbook
View
Guestbook |
Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 159.134.169.251 Remote User: Date: 01 March 2001 Time: 21:23 Comments Kilmainham Jail is Ireland's Bastille - it should not be overshadowed! Username: Janet Miller UserEmail: JMiller2@hcfa.gov UserTel: 410-786-2157 UserFAX: Remote Name: 158.73.247.3 Remote User: Date: 02 March 2001 Time: 18:40 Comments I had the good fortune to travel through Ireland last summer, and although there are many truly lovely sights in your country, without a doubt my most moving and memorable experience was a tour through the Kolmainham Jail. The buldings resonate with the still palpable spirits of the brave men who lived and died there. Their hard won message of love of country and that "freedom has a cost" should not be diminished by this commercial venture. It seems as though all the crass dufuses (German for blockhead but not as polite) who tried to pave over the graves of the men at Gettysburg and Antetiem (yes, I am a Yank) emigrated to your side of the pond. I thought the Irish had a fine sense of history and of the poetic. Janet Miller Baltimore, Maryland USA Username: THE SONS OF ROISIN. UserEmail: March 2001. UserTel: 86th Anniversary of 1916 nearly apon us. UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.168.166.180 Remote User: Date: 03 March 2001 Time: 12:23 Comments DUBLIN CORPORATION GRANT FULL PERMISSION FOR THE OFFICE BLOCKS OPPOSITE KILMAINHAM GAOL. On 16th February 2001. The following played their part in the eternal ruination of this site 1) John Fitzgerald ( "City Manager"!!) 2) John Carey "Assistant" to the above. 3) James Barret "City Architect" - He must know that a proposal to build a hotel opposite St. John's Castle in his native Limerick was rejected by Limerick Corporation - how would they have reacted to speculative office blocks ?? -we know well, NO NO NO and he is now the City Architect for Dublin. Boy what a Legacy these Public Servants have feft us and the whole of Dublin / Ireland. Kiaran Rose senior planner - we heard good things about this man - but he must have caved in!! to the aforementioned city fathers. So Fitzgerald will retire to Tipperary and Barret to Limerick and the rest of us will have to explain who they were and their LEGACY for Kilmainham Gaol. Indeed for what died The Sons of Roisin as Luke Kelly sang over 20 years ago when Speculators had no interest in Kilmainham or Inchicore. The Integrated Area Plan for Inchicore / Kilmainham is only a official quango with a Corporation agenda to facilitate so called developers into the district under the disguise of "ECONOMIC REGENERATION". The IAP is a sham providing a few bollards opposite the Bank of Ireland, ramps on Bulfin Estate- o what wonderfull news- Office blocks at Kilmainham Jail and a brand new Jail in Inchicore to be sited on Jamestown Road- O what progress and integration. Not forgetting 7 floors of apartments opposite St. Michael's Church. 0 WHAT A WELL THOUGHT OUT AND MOST APPROPRIATE PLAN FOR THE MOST HISTORICAL DISTRICT IN DUBLIN CITY and where was it launched - in the East Wing of Kilmainham Gaol on November 2nd 1999. !!!! All the lads above stood in the Gaol and handed out their brouchers and much vaunted plans for us -and the speeches boy did they sound good. Clapping themselves on the back as they sipped their wine and saying we'll have no bother here with the sleepy working people of Inchicore and Kilmainham. Also it should be noted that when a motion to rezone the site opposite the Gaol was put to the City Council Councillors on the 7th of February- our local Fianna Fail (Goverment) councillors OPPOSED the motion. The founding father of FF- Eamon De Velera must be turning in his grave as he was a leader of the Irish Rebellion of 1916 and was the last Irish prisioner to leave Kilmainham Gaol in 1924. Indeed "For What Died the Sons of Roisin" ?? Username: Maria O'Toole UserEmail: mjot@ireland.com UserTel: 01 454 3056 UserFAX: Remote Name: 159.134.228.27 Remote User: Date: 03 March 2001 Time: 14:07 Comments I wish to register my objection to the proposed development on the site opposite Kilmainham Gaol. It is beyond my comprehension how this got approval in the first place. The area will be damaged irrevocably by the proposed development. It seems that Dublin will continue to destroy its architectural heritage and has not learned from the gross errors of the past. Aside from the architectural impact this community has major development needs, none of which are served by this development. I agree with the campaign that this has been a sell out to corporate money. As a local resident and somebody with a lot of history in this area I am disgusted by the Corporations lack of respect for local opinion. When is the likes of the Corporation going to be become accountable to the people it is supposed to serve. This community was built by the hards labours of the original residents many years ago, it continues to be a close community and I salute those who have taken up this issue. Username: Shinead Ni Chonarain UserEmail: sineadnichonarain@solaseireann.com UserTel: 01-2448415 UserFAX: Remote Name: 62.254.96.4 Remote User: Date: 04 March 2001 Time: 17:54 Comments As i'm a Dubliner i feel it is vital that Ireland protects memorial places like Kilmainham Gaol,it is our duty as Irish citizen's to protect what is rightfully ours.Kilmainham is a temple of history in which i will always worship as i am proud of this country,of it's history and determination to be a nation once again.I'm determined not for myself,not for my children ,not for the people of today but for those who died to achieve it :ERIN GO BRAGH,agus TIOCFAIDH AR LA!! Username: Michael Logan UserEmail: michael.logan@ireland.com UserTel: 4734597 UserFAX: Remote Name: 212.17.34.48 Remote User: Date: 05 March 2001 Time: 14:17 Comments I cannot understand why Dublin Corporation would wand to build a major office development in what is primarily a residental area of Dublin. Furthermore, the visual impact of the scheme on the Royal Hospital and the Kilmainham Gaol/Inchicore road area will be irreversible. I can't see what possible benifit the scheme can have for the local community since the retail element is small, and is the Corporation really asking us to believe that the jobs created in the office scheme would go to people in the local community? Yours, Michael Logan Tyrconnell Park Inchicore Username: Thomas Conneely UserEmail: tconneely@earthlink.net UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 63.178.233.131 Remote User: Date: 06 March 2001 Time: 02:43 Comments Please preserve a very important part of Irish history. Our forefathers endured many hardships and depravities at this place in the name of Ireland. The Goal in not only a symbol of Irelands past, but it could be a symbol of Irish foresight in preserving the past least the lessons history be forgotten. With proper protection and promotion it could become as famous as Alcatras which nothing more than a prison for common thiefs and murders. Thank you Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 193.120.149.234 Remote User: Date: 06 March 2001 Time: 12:16 Comments I would like to add my support to the campaign against the proposed office blocks which would overshadow this most historic gaol. Planning laws should be stricter and more enforced in this city, not just a case of build what you want where you want for financial reasons...but to make sure that the proposed buildings fit in with their surroundings which in this case they clearly do not. RN, Dublin. Username: Nigel Rolfe UserEmail: rolfeco@iol.ie UserTel: 4538523 UserFAX: 4546095 Remote Name: 194.125.2.129 Remote User: Date: 06 March 2001 Time: 12:48 Comments Greed in the contemporary climate is not unexpected and nothing is sacred in its pursuit. Dublin Corporation in its planning decisions and in other areas do not put the interests of its citizens first as is their moral and in deed legal obligation. This is a disgusting and disasterous turn of events.Please register my support and name to your campaign to protect this historic site and the local people from the ravages of developers greed. Professor Nigel Rolfe.Artist. Kilmainham. Dublin 8. Username: Anthony J. Roche UserEmail: ajroche@iol.ie UserTel: Dublin 6264884 UserFAX: Remote Name: 159.134.254.46 Remote User: Date: 06 March 2001 Time: 13:42 Comments The proposed development will interfere with the integrity of the area as it now stands. It will do nothing, commercially or architecturally to Kilmainham and its environs. To proceed with this development would be a crimminal act of national vandalism Anthony J. roche 60 Gurteen Park ballyfermot Dublin 10 Username: K.Murphy UserEmail: celtic.love@ireland.com UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.83.36.2 Remote User: Date: 06 March 2001 Time: 14:55 Comments I am from Stourbridge which is in the west midlands of england, and i would like to put across my anger at the proposed plans for these office blocks. I think it would ruin Kilmainham Gaol for what it is, it is an important irish monument and you should be doing everything you can to be savouring what you have and not maiming it by some office block. However I do know that Dublin is forever going and need to continue to grow to become the cosmopolitan city that it is known. But surely tourism being one of the main industries at the moment, you need to understand my concern. please find another place to build your block. Username: Sean Doyle UserEmail: sad@miltek.dk UserTel: 97326180 UserFAX: 96758100 Remote Name: 212.70.13.119 Remote User: Date: 07 March 2001 Time: 13:46 Comments My name is Sean Anthony Doyle. My father came from Inchicore and that is where I spent most of my childhood. I now live on the West Coast of Denmark, in a small town called Ringkøbing. It is terrible to think that a bunch of idiots, like the Dublin Corporation, have the power to decide on what may be classed as historical or what shall be demolished. Once there is a couple of quid in it for them, then that’s just fine. They should be ashamed of themselves. I wish the residents of Kilmainham & Inchicore all the best of luck. Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 193.120.127.220 Remote User: Date: 08 March 2001 Time: 11:16 Comments PUBLIC DEMONSTRATION SPECULATIVE OFFICE BLOCKS OPPOSITE KILMAINHAM JAIL Please attend outside the jail on Friday 16th March from 3pm to 5pm Posters, Banners, Musical Instruments all welcome We need a large turnout to get our message across to the Corporation and the Fat-Cat Developers Please contribute to An Bord Pleanala Appeal fund "Friends of Kilmainham Gaol" Bank of Ireland, Tyreconnell Rd., Inchicore Account No: 90-01-64 19339063 Visit www.kilmainham-gaol.com THE SELLOUT OF THE UNIQUE HERITAGE OF OUR DISTRICT HAS BEEN SANCTION BY DUBLIN CORPORATION Username: Brian Finegan UserEmail: brian_finegan@hotmail.com UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.2.129 Remote User: Date: 08 March 2001 Time: 15:48 Comments I am all for progressive architecture, but when a building such as this is placed alongside a building of such national importance, dwarfing it in the process, a stand must be taken. I urge the planners of Dublin Coprporation to reassess the Charmside Developments application and hopefully reject it. Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 62.60.56.141 Remote User: Date: 09 March 2001 Time: 00:24 Comments Username: Chris Yonts UserEmail: c_yonts@yahoo.com UserTel: 650-345-9925 UserFAX: 650-345-9925 Remote Name: 206.251.17.16 Remote User: Date: 09 March 2001 Time: 17:43 Comments Please don't ruin the significance of this important landmark. This is a very special place that deserves to be protected. I am from San Mateo, California. My wife and I visited Dublin and Kilmainham Gaol in 1997. Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 209.156.209.5 Remote User: Date: 10 March 2001 Time: 15:53 Comments I am an American who visited Kilmainham Jail in June, 2000. Kilmainham Jail to Ireland is a symbol of British tyranny to the people of Ireland whose character is shaped not only by the history of the institution but also by the neighborhood surrounding it. It would have been nice if there had been some sort of cafe or small restaurant built in the architectural style of the late 1700's that I could have visited after my tour, but I thank God that I did not have see an office development when I left. It would have destroyed my entire memory of the jail. Please do not try to build an office development within sight of Kilmainham Jail. Remember--this is a national treasure of Ireland! Username: Ciaran O Donohoe UserEmail: C.i@ireland.com UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 193.120.127.221 Remote User: Date: 12 March 2001 Time: 14:18 Comments Kilmainham Jail is one of the most important historical buildings on the island of Ireland and I would unreservedly oppose the building of an office block so close to such a fine building which is steeped in history. In fact, with the growing importance of our tourism industry, it would be more appropriate to consider the demolishion of buildings which obstruct the views of such buildings rather than building new ones. I vehemently oppose the construction of this proposed new office block, so close to Kilmainham Gaol. Username: Michael O'Flanagan UserEmail: riposte@gofree.indigo.ie UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.133.220 Remote User: Date: 12 March 2001 Time: 16:07 Comments congrats!..you're doing good work Username: Michael A. Clarke UserEmail: clrksville@aol.com UserTel: 209-543-9482 (USA) UserFAX: Remote Name: 209.142.8.102 Remote User: Date: 13 March 2001 Time: 17:18 Comments Please do not allow developers to ruin the setting of Kilmainham Gaol. Important parts of Irish history should be preserved. Michael & Jeanine Clarke California, U.S.A. Username: Ruth Martin UserEmail: rmartin@eircom.net UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 193.120.150.157 Remote User: Date: 14 March 2001 Time: 15:17 Comments As both a resident of the Kilmainham/Inchicore area and as a citizen of Ireland, I strongly object to the proposed business development in an area of such historic and cultural heritage. I hope that my concerns and those of many others are heeded and that we see the preservation of this unique architectural streetscape for all the people of Ireland and for the thousands of visitors who come to the area annually. Yours sincerely, Ruth Martin Username: Dermot Heneghan UserEmail: dermot_heneghan@mcl.ie UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 193.120.150.157 Remote User: Date: 14 March 2001 Time: 15:36 Comments Dermot HENEGHAN from Dublin says it's horrendous what there doing to this national heritage sight, and I'll be there on friday with my friends to demonstrate if I can make it Username: Niamh Byrne UserEmail: niamhb@altavista.com UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 193.120.150.157 Remote User: Date: 14 March 2001 Time: 15:56 Comments Unfortunately it's not a surprise anymore when someone proposes to build inappropriate structures at such important sights of heritage in our capital. But it is up to us to voice our objections to these plans. People are too apathetic in Ireland these days about important issues like this. It's time we all stood up to the so-called powers that be and let them know what a potential disgrace and embarrassment this building would be. Username: paul stuart UserEmail: pstuart@eircom.net UserTel: (01) 8550820 UserFAX: Remote Name: 159.134.229.159 Remote User: Date: 14 March 2001 Time: 19:26 Comments Re: Planning Reference: 2467/00 I am appalled by this proposed development beside Kilmainham jail. Why is there no importance placed on the architectural quality of so many developments in Dublin? Good design does not seem to be a factor when it comes to planning applications in Dublin. Username: Mairtin Breathnach UserEmail: mairtin.breatnach@ashville.ie UserTel: 086 8035883 UserFAX: 01 6727100 Remote Name: 194.125.221.161 Remote User: Date: 15 March 2001 Time: 12:12 Comments Another appallingly greedy, short-sighted, insensitive, ill-judged, non-inclusive and cowardly example of Irish corporate arrogance and their to quest to turn this country into a cublicle car park. Shame on all of those involved in this project and may it sit uneasy on all of your desktops. Username: Michael P. Flynn UserEmail: irishgolf@home.com UserTel: 410-465-7022 UserFAX: 410-465-3863 Remote Name: 24.4.252.24 Remote User: Date: 15 March 2001 Time: 13:00 Comments I think this could be a destruction of true Irish History. Why would any government want to destroy he fabric of a nation. The goal is a fugure of English tyranny and Irish struggle. Create a vistors reception area. I have visited four times over the last 14 years and I ams till moved every time I enter the area. Mike Flynn Ellicott City, Maryland US Username: Councillor Dermot Lacey UserEmail: dermot_lacey@labour.ie UserTel: 6612615 UserFAX: 6612640 Remote Name: 194.125.133.220 Remote User: Date: 15 March 2001 Time: 14:36 Comments I have been requested by the Labour Pary City Council Group to convey to you our support and to offer any assitance we can in oursuit of your campaign. On a personal level can I also congrtaulate you on this web page. Username: Ms. Jere Springer UserEmail: jerespring@hotmail.net UserTel: [626] 914-7776 UserFAX: Remote Name: 4.41.24.46 Remote User: Date: 15 March 2001 Time: 22:01 Comments I have had the pleasure of visiting Ireland. On a visit to Kilmiainham Gaol I was overwhelmed at the sight of so much suffering & history. It would be a desecreation to the memory to those who suffered & died there. I don't have to tell you how crowded Dublin is, wouldn't it be a better idea to move the office buildings to the suburbs? Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 193.120.205.131 Remote User: Date: 16 March 2001 Time: 11:52 Comments They must be thwarted in their sacrilegious intent -- without the sacifice of those who were therein immured, those who would now profit could not have thrived! Dublin resident, ex-Tyrone. Username: A.J.O'Donnell UserEmail: daligh@ihug.co.nz UserTel: +64 3 3774580 UserFAX: +64 3 3774587 Remote Name: 203.109.252.15 Remote User: Date: 18 March 2001 Time: 05:32 Comments As an Irish Desendant, 3rd Generation, from "Down Under", New Zealand, and a ChristChurch, Cantabrian Mainlander, we are extremly proud of our great heritage city, its buildings, the way it is laid out, and its many, many, parks and reserves, and the Council has known for years that it dear not touch anything that is slighty heritage or risk the wrath of its citizens. People are constantly outstanded from all parts of the globe just what an outstanding City this is. We might be a small country with a small population but Kiwi's are known worldwide we are "Doer's" not "Talkers", and you history is a lot older than ours, so what are you trying to ruin it for. Username: David Sherwin UserEmail: dsherwin@biosys.net UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 213.116.44.127 Remote User: Date: 18 March 2001 Time: 20:49 Comments Living as I do close to Kilmainham Gaol, I am incensed at the lack of consideration which is shown to this most historic of Dublin areas by the people charged with overseeing the development of this fine city. Once again, Dublin Corporation planning department has abandoned it's responsibilities to an Bord Pleanala, rather than risk incurring the wrath of the Corporate developers. There is presently an office block on the Nestle Site. It has stood empty for about two years now despite the fact that there is ample parking on the site at present. What hope is there for an office development which will accomodate 4,000 people and have parking for only 600 or so. Oh yes, the Corporation can issue compulsory purchase orders to facilitate the redevelopment of a horse trading square at Smithfield, home to a magnificient distillery which is renowned in Irish history for eh,.... But Inchicore and Kilmainham can make do with a monstrous office block opposite one of the most historically important buildings in the country. A development which if allowed to continue, will be half finished before the so-called Integrated Area Plan report is finished. Why not let Charmside and some of the other developers come up with an integrated plan for the area. At least they will ruin the area quickly!! Username: Tomas Blood UserEmail: tomblood@hfx.andara.com UserTel: 902-425-8895 (sorry don t know country code) UserFAX: Remote Name: 24.222.0.32 Remote User: Date: 23 March 2001 Time: 03:22 Comments I think that it is atrocious that the Dublin Corp. would allow anything to detract from the significance of such a national historic building. It seems that the world, through big business and commercial interests, has lost its sense of history and purpose. This is sad indeed in a country that fought so valiantly and against such odds to be recognized as a country capable of ruling themselves. I think the soldiers of the republic who died, and those who came before them would be terribly disappointed at what has become of Eire. Tom Blood Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 195.212.29.195 Remote User: Date: 24 March 2001 Time: 11:50 Comments I am totally sickened by the plans to erect more eyesores in the capital,but this time the planning dept have really sunk to new lows. Please think of this country's heritage and history before demeaning one of our most important national monuments. Congratulations to the 'Protect Kilmainham Jail' campaign.I believe that if this bizzare development plan is made known to the public at large there will be outrage. I happened upon it by accident myself and did not read or hear of it from any of the media. Keep up the fight. Aodhan O' Deaghaidh Username: John J. McNamara UserEmail: jmcma.at.tor UserTel: 416 - 622-0258 UserFAX: n/a Remote Name: 137.15.245.4 Remote User: Date: 30 March 2001 Time: 17:17 Comments Preserve the integrity of this facility. Ireland is very fortunate indeed to have this building and grounds to display to the world. To build hi-rise anything opposite or for that matter in the immediate facinity of this fine memorial is terrible. My family and I from Toronto, Canada have visited this marvelous site and were deeply touch by the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.We support you in preserving the environment surrounding this site. We further think that it is a marvelous idea to develop the area across the street into perhaps low rise shops/restaurants etc. but not high rise buildings. GOOD LUCK and much success John and Beth McNamara Toronto Canada Username: Tomas O'Raghallaigh UserEmail: saoirse1972@yahoo.co.uk UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 213.122.60.247 Remote User: Date: 14 April 2001 Time: 10:13 Comments ACHARA, once again we are out to wreck Dublins history for the big buck, Iwould like to register my oppposition to these plans to erect office blocks around Kilmainham. Iam sending this e-mail from England Username: Colm Mc Anthony UserEmail: ocht@eircom.net UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 159.134.225.154 Remote User: Date: 15 April 2001 Time: 17:55 Comments I as a dubliner object profusely to this proposed monstosity that is to be built directly opposite one of our most historic buildings in dublin. Just how in Gods name it even got past its initial application is a very, very sad reflection on Dublin Corporation Username: Seán Mac Cann UserEmail: sean.mac.cann@vordel.com UserTel: 215 3366 UserFAX: Remote Name: 62.17.20.242 Remote User: Date: 17 April 2001 Time: 08:15 Comments Co Tyrone hi folks, some French friends over this weekend; they keen to see Kilmainham Jail; let's not mess it up the way (eg) Stonehenge in the UK has been ruined by commercial development nearby? - thanks ... Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.165.161.11 Remote User: Date: 19 April 2001 Time: 07:50 Comments This is no way for Ireland's heritage to be treated. Username: Nathan Bower,N.Y.,USA UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 143.239.128.38 Remote User: Date: 20 April 2001 Time: 11:35 Comments It is a shame that your authorities do not take into account the importance of historical heritage and the tourists that wish to go to Ireland and see such places. Username: Drew Brown UserEmail: drew_brown@lineone.net UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 213.122.21.225 Remote User: Date: 21 April 2001 Time: 09:37 Comments Dear All, My wife and I visted Dublin flying in frommour home city of glasgow during the Easter Weekend 2001. We were very impressed with the people the frindliness of those we met and with your architecture and heritage. Please contine to campaign to ensure that Kilmainham Gaol does not get obscured by a planning nightmare that will obscure what I found to be a very moving and interesting building from sight. I wish you all well with your campaign Drew Brown Username: Susan Smith UserEmail: Susan.Smith@attglobal.net UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 32.100.136.120 Remote User: Date: 29 April 2001 Time: 03:56 Comments Please please do not go through with the proposed plans to build these office blocks across from Kilmainham Jail. The historical significance for Ireland is too important to let this area be developed in a way that will do nothing to enhance it. Develop it, yes, but as a park or something that will "set off" this site. Do not lose any more of your history by physically diminishing the areas surrounding landmark buildings. Irish history needs to be told, both to Irish children and to the world. It needs to be honored and cherished. If you lose your history, your culture, you will no longer be Irish. Celebrate and revive this area. As a visitor from the US, it was one of the most significant places I went, although I had read a good deal about it first. The tour given there is excellent, and I would recommend it as a very important stop to any visitor interested in Ireland. Don't cheapen it--hold on to some class. It would be like putting up a MacDonald's on the Gettysburg Battlefield. Username: VR UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 193.120.171.177 Remote User: Date: 30 April 2001 Time: 17:55 Comments Attn:Planning Department of Dublin Corporation Re:Planning Reference - 2467/00 January 20, 2001 Dear Planning Department, I totally object to the proposed Charm side office development adjacent to Kilmainham Gaol. It is saddening to see that this type of development is still being considered in an area steeped in history. It should be undergoing rejuvenation befitting its historical status. As a resident of Old Kilmainham who wishes to preserve our nation's history and believe in our planning authorities, I sincerely hope that a suitable amenity will replace the current proposals. Username: Phil Robert UserEmail: philrobert@eircom.net UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 159.134.168.107 Remote User: Date: 13 May 2001 Time: 14:11 Comments I am a proud citizen of Dublin, Ireland. I have been teaching in Inchicore for the past nineteen years. I have taken numerous students to Kilmainham Jail during that period and I hope to continue doing so in the future. I am absolutely appalled at Dublin Corporation's attitude towards the Inchicore Kilmainham area and its people. They threw up high rise flats, and built a halting site in close proximity to each other. They have given planning permission for new apartments to be erected in the village of Inchicore without any consideration to the lack of amenities available for present and future residents of the area. The apartments built outside the gates of Goldenbridge Secondary School, although very pretty from an architectural point of view, are built in such a way that there is bound to be a fatal accident there sooner rather than later. There is no supermarket in Inchicore/Kilmainham, no hotel serving the area, and now we have Dublin Corporation granting planning permission to Charmside Developments to build office blocks opposite Kilmainham Jail. Charmside Developments is a most appropriate name. Charming indeed. There are other more appropriate sites available in Inchicore if it is so necessary to build in this area. What about the site of the old derelict cinema on Tyrconnel Road? That is an eye-sore and has been for many years. Maybe they could incorporate a supermarket to serve the local residents. There are numerous industrial estates dotted around the suburbs with infrastructure far more suited to office blocks than the Kilmainham area. Take Sanyford Industrial estate for instancein the Dublin 18 area. Imagine the centenary of 1916 Rising with Kilmainham Jail dwarfed by large ugly office blocks. At a time when Dublin cororation are priding themselves on giving back Dublin City to the pedestrian this disastrous decision is out of keeping with their promises and another indication that despite the numerous tribunals, Irish corporate arrogance is still alive and thriving and the fat cats of the cosy cartels are still scratching each others backs to the detriment of lcoal people, Irish heritage and culture, tourism and future generations. Yours sincerely, Phil Robert Username: Pat Mahon UserEmail: mahonp@wilton.k12.ct.us UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 209.4.168.150 Remote User: Date: 18 May 2001 Time: 14:54 Comments I am from Wilton, Connecticut, USA, and I truly hope that this site which is so important to Irish history, and to Irish and Iris-Americans will not be disturbed. As a teacher and lover of history, I beg you please do not build this office building in this place. Username: THIS POSTED ON THE FOLLOWING WEBSITE UserEmail: www.archeire.com UserTel: Join in the forums ( page 2) and leave your comments. UserFAX: Friends of Kilmainham. Remote Name: 194.125.148.89 Remote User: Date: 22 May 2001 Time: 12:42 Comments ADDITIONAL GENERATED IMAGES AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATI ON KILMAINHAM MACRO BLOCKS. View on www.kilmainham-gaol.com additional generated images on what Dublin Corporation, Treasury Holdings and Tony Reddy plan for to overlook “The Western Gateway into Dublin City”. Greg, you reckon the front elevation of this “adds substance” and gives Old Kilmainham (Dublin’s last urban village) “a city like quality”. I recall the same words being said about the office blocks of the late 60s that still stand 40 years later all over the city and are totally alien to the context as surely the flat roofed (profile steel panels) Macro Blocks are in 2001. Any opinions on the “back” of this landmark building ! which faces the Pheonix Park, the Western Gateway into Dublin City and the residents of the South Circular Road. Can you imagine the view of this from the Magazine Fort ! How would you like to live on St. John’s Terrace with this in your back garden ? These could be 3 blocks transplanted from Beaumont Hospital (minus the flues)- they will come later (on another layer) no doubt. Also as it states in the so called EIS “this development stems from detailed discussions with the senior architects and planners of Dublin Corporation”. Then as result of objections from all sides on this development the Corporation responded with their “additional information”. In other words the following was not even taken seriously or discussed at these cosy “pre planning decision” consultations between developer and Corpo only. DUBLIN CORPORATION’S REQUESTED ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. In Dublin Corporation’s (very responsible) “additional information” Jim Barret and Kiaran Rose demanded and I quote – “This area formed by the junction of the South Circular Road, Inchicore Road and Kilmainham Lane contains an ensemble of buildings of the greatest architectural, historical and cultural importance. The area is also a gateway into Dublin City. Given the great importance and sensitivity of the site and all surroundings areas, a development of EXCELLENCE IS ESSENTIAL on this site. Aside: This is Dublin Corporation correctly saying this is mediocre and architecturally of little merit. Regarding the effect on the Protected Structures and other built environment, the EIS Architectural Heritage section states (p157, para. 22.5) that: “The proposed development does not physically impact on the buildings (nearby), but it will drive a wedge between the buildings and their physical and historical environment. Remedial and mitigation measures are therefore design issues and should be addressed accordingly”. To quote further: The critical issues arising in this development are as follows: · The effect of the proposed development on the ensemble of buildings of great architectural, historical and cultural merit and the related urban space and achieving a better architectural and urban design solution. · Achieving a better mix of uses. · Protecting adjoining residential amenity. · Providing for greater use of public transport also cycling, walking etc. Having regard to the National Importance of the site and surrounding area. (e.g. opposite a National Monument and the adjoining range of other protected structures all in juxtaposition), the proximity of the gaol alone which is of national significance in the history of the state, means that the immediate environs of the gaol is of greater significance in terms of the historical development of the nation than is the case with any other National Monument. Also regarding the extensive nature of the proposed development and para. 22.5 of the EIS, the applicant is requested to submit: (a) Alternative architectural proposals which would be more in character with and WOULD ENHANCE the nearby Protected Structures and in particular Kilmainham Gaol. Such proposals should be of ACHITECTURAL AND URBAN DESIGN EXCELLENCE and have a character of solidity (with a high solid to void ratio), simplicity and elegance which would compliment (and not compete) with the Protected Structures and related urban space. Aside: This is Dublin Corporation now saying that this proposal offers little architectural merit / urban design excellence ! yet it’s still permitted with minor modifications by the senior officials of Dublin Corporation. (b) Alternative proposals to be submitted which would provide for the proper integration of the proposed development with the adjoining public realm. Aside: The same development came back Christmas Eve 2000 and its density increased by 40,000 ft sq. Total “accommodation” now 650,000 ft sq. The applicant is requested to submit proposals for a greater mix of uses on site. Residential uses and / or a hotel should be considered. ……the result (after mitigating and remedial work)! of the above is what you can see… basically Dublin Corporation binned their own “additional information” along with 2000 objections and also went against the wishes of the elected representatives of the entire Dublin City Council who represent the people of Dublin City. They took out the original plans + an extra 40,000 ft.sq. and sanctioned this development. Incidentally, most of us in Kilmainham are aware of the great legacy Jim Barret (Dublin City Architect) left for Limerick and the nation in his tenure as Limerick City Architect when he oversaw the restoration and appropriate development of and surrounding King John’s Castle. Limerick Corporation refused planning permission for a hotel opposite King John’s Castle saying “the scheme as presented is too big and out of character with the historical context. Its ultra modern design is at odds with the mature historical setting surrounding the Castle” how would Limerick Corporation have reacted to the Macro Blocks right opposite King John’s Castle? Kilmainham would gladly swap the Macro Blocks for the much required tourism and local facility that a hotel would represent. Model flat roofed retro-fit office blocks are OK for Dublin’s Kilmainham Gaol but a tourism development that Kilmainham cries out for would not be permitted in Limerick. Username: Paul Clerkin UserEmail: paul@archeire.com UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 159.134.228.94 Remote User: Date: 22 May 2001 Time: 15:14 Comments If you're going to rip off my photographs, at least a) have the decentcy to ask permission b) credit tyhem to archeire.com c) dont do it Username: Beaconsfield Court Residents. UserEmail: Kilmainham. UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.205.132 Remote User: Date: 28 May 2001 Time: 08:29 Comments Inchicore Road Residences Association Beaconsfield Court, Inchicore Road, Kilmainham. The Inchicore Road Residences Association wish to lodge an objection to Dublin Corporation, against the revised plans submitted by Charmside Developments for their proposed development across from Kilmainham Gaol. (2467/00). The reasons for the objection are outlined below. The most important point is in relation to the zoning of the site. Other points raised are in relation to the proposed structure. Zoning: The zoning of this site as industrial in an area dominated by heritage buildings and protected structures is completely inappropriate. The site should be used as a heritage site with facilities for the public and tourists. New Public Space: The existing Nestle building is set back from the building line of the houses on the north side of Inchicore Road. This opens out the street at the entrance to Inchicore Road and gives a feeling of space in front of the Gaol. One can clearly visualise how this could be transformed into a public space if the current set back line of the Nestles office block is maintained. In contrast to this the curved wall of the proposed structure projects aggressively out beyond the existing building line of the houses on the north side of the Inchicore Road. In doing this it dominates all other buildings in the area. The building is to be built over the sunny side of the street and the space in front of it will be in shadow for most of the year and therefore will not be used as a public space. There is no public seating indicated in the proposed new space. To summarise this ‘public space’ as proposed in front of the Gaol is no more than a glorified Zebra crossing. Character of Inchicore Road: Inchicore Road is Kilmainham’s (“Unden den Liden”) it’s a most unique Tree Lined Avenue. Very mature trees ( 100 years +) line it on either side. The developers proposes to remove at least one of these trees opposite the Gaol. It’s also very clear from the plan that other existing mature trees will be in grave danger of being lost during construction considering their proximity to the proposed structure. The charming character of Inchicore Road is defined by this tree lined Avenue and under no circumstances should these trees be removed. Scale: The scale of the buildings is overpowering and dominates and dwarfs all surrounding structures. It clearly does not relate to the surrounding structures. Form and Mass: The form of the buildings is 3 DENCE MONOLITHIC BLOCKS and the proposed density on the site bears no relationship to the surrounding structures. In fact the revised scheme increases the size of the development by 3,351sq. metres thus increasing its density up to 57,000 sq. m ( 600,000 ft sq), nothing in the past on this site was comparable to this. This is nearly four times the size of the Gasometer site down the industrial docklands. Materials: The proposed use of Tecrete is totally alien to the context. Also we note the only recently Limerick Corporation refused permission for the development of a hotel / residential development opposite St. John’s Castle stating “ it was most inappropriate and in conflict with the historical context of the Castle”. How would they have reacted to speculative office blocks opposite their prime historical heritage site. Dublin Corporation and our City Architect should examine the Limerick application. Natural Ventilation: The developer proposes using natural ventilation. This will be impossible on two accounts. Firstly the depth of the building from window to atrium is up to 28 metres. This is too wide resulting in a large volumetric space which cannot be ventilated naturally. Secondly with a large density of lights / to service this computers and VDUs in the building mechanical cooling / air-conditioning plant will be required to counteract the heat being produced. The revised scheme shows no plant on the roof. In fact a very large plant area on the roof will be required to service this building thus raising the building by another storey. The developers obviously intend to apply for this at a later date. Public Transport: The proposed transport node of the LUAS on Davitt Road (in Drimnagh) that is to service these blocks is located at too great a distance to fulfil this role. The surrounding roads are already pushed at peak hours to cope with this proposed influx of traffic. The surrounding residential area (CIE houses / Bulfin estate) will be used as an overflow parking area for the transient tenants (4000+) of the new development. Conclusion: This development offers nothing to the community into which it is proposed to land other than to seriously damage and actually set back the development of tourism in Kilmainham. Also the integrity and existing historical ambience of Inchicore Road and in particular Kilmainham Gaol, the Old Courthouse and the Richmond Tower. Phil Donnelly. Username: DEVELOPE THIS SITE FOR TOURISM AND HERITAGE UserEmail: AS WOULD BE SEEN IN ANY OTHER EUROPEAN CAPITAL CITY. UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.220.189 Remote User: Date: 28 May 2001 Time: 08:59 Comments KILMAINHAM AND INCHICORE COMBINED RESIDENTS ASSOCIATIONS AND FRIENDS OF KILMAINHAM C/O John Callery, 2 The Paddocks, SCR, Kilmainham, Dublin 8. Ref: Macro Blocks at Kilmainham Gaol. We wish to state our following observations in relation to the “revised”!! submission by Treasury Holdings pertaining to the above. We object to this scheme as nothing has changed. 1. Overall build of this “revised” development is now 56,786sq.m (611,245 ft. sq. ) Previous scheme = 53,388 sq. m.(574,668 sq.ft) So proposed new build of these blocks has increased by 3398 sq m.(36,576 sq.ft ). This is some RESPONCE to him being asked to consider the density of his proposal. 2. Let’s now examine each block: Block A = 25,311 sq m of which 24,788 sq m for office use Block A to contain a “restaurant”!! = 236 sq m. Also to contain “a tourist information unit”!! = 361 sq m. Total retail = 597 sq m So block A will provide “amenities” of 2.4% of “mixed use”. Further more this miniscule space that he calls a restaurant is nothing more than a tea room where the 4000 occupants of the blocks will cram in shifts for a smoke and cup of tea. It is a token tea shop that would not even serve the needs of the security staff of the Macro Blocks. Block B = 9,019 sq m of which 7,616 sq m for office use. Block B to contain 625 sq m of a “public gym”, 5 retail units = 417 sq m and “a private creche” of 361sq m. So block B will provide the much needed “local and tourist amenities” that this site cries out for, namely a gym and private creche !! All he is providing is some miniscule facilities for his tenants. Ratio here of offices to “mixed use”!! is 98% offices to 2% office worker facilities – we ask where is the local and tourist amenities that this site cries out for?? Block C = 2560 sq m, this remains at 100% office space. OVERALL RATIO FOR SCHEME IS 98% OFFICES TO 2% “MIXED USE”- which is for the benefit of the tenants. The second so called proposal is exactly the same animal as the first. This same proposal for this ancient and historic place is preposterous , architecturally of no merit for such a magnificent location just sub-urban Lego. The comments I have heard after viewing the photomontage vary from that these blocks look like a space station from opposite the Gaol, add a couple of flues and we see a power station from the Pheonix Park and hospital blocks from Con Colbert Road the Western Gateway into Dublin City. This just cannot be passed in any shape or form and be imposed on this ancient place. It’s like the O’ Flaherty case it will never be right. It was wrong last year, its wrong this year and it will never be right. A totally appropriate and well thought out design is required here- a classic hotel, heritage park and public plaza. 3. Public space / atrium : This charade is nothing more than an entrance foyer that “leads into the more private space of the office atrium” to use the planning agents exacts words. 4. “A hotel was considered but not progressed” : We wish to remind Dublin Corporation to read the 2000 very specific points as submitted by the residents stating what this site requires (copy enclosed). PROPOSED OFFICE BLOCKS OPPOSITE KILMAINHAM GAOL. Development by Charmside Developments at 34-38 Inchicore Road, Kilmainham Dublin 8. Planning Ref: 2467 /00 I :……………… Address : ……………… …………………………. ………………………… ………………………… August 29th 2000. I wish to object to the above on the following grounds: 1. The building of the above and its function (SPECULATIVE OFFICE BLOCKS) will diminish the integrity and national importance of Kilmainham Jail. 2. I wish for this site opposite the Kilmainham Gaol to be designated / zoned by Dublin Corporation as a HERITAGE / CULTURAL site. 3. I wish for appropriate amenities for locals and the many tourists who visit here. We require a classically designed hotel (and its associated amenities) restaurant and heritage village for our children and all the children of the nation which reflects the great history of the district. 4. This is Dublin’s Bastille District – let any new development reflect this as one will see surrounding Place de la Bastille in Paris. This site must have public access and be developed as “Plaza Kilmainham” Yours sincerely, …………………… 5. This proposed development DWARFS all the protected structures that surrounds this most unique site and cannot be imposed ON THE RESIDENTS of St.John’s Garden’s, Spencer Terrace and Charlton Terrace. This most imposing scheme will be a negative externality of major density and bulkness in the face of the Gaol and the district. Architecturally it is of no merit. It cannot be considered be Dublin Corporation in any shape or form as it’s apparent all the developer insists on developing is speculative office blocks. Dublin Corporation you’re here to serve the public not big business – you must respond to the total con of “additional information” as submitted by the developer in an appropriate manner. This most inappropriate (in every sense of the word) proposal deserves total rejection, no amount of requests to the developer will improve this scheme. It’s architecturally, historically and morally wrong to say nothing of its function and location. Dublin Corporation you know yourselves this totally fails the objectives of your own IAP for the area, the leading statement of which reads as follows- “ On the 2nd of November 1999 Dublin Corporation launched (in the East Wing of Kilmainham Gaol !!!) an exciting new Urban Renewal Plan for the Kilmainham / Inchicore area. The AIM is to bring about regeneration whilst enhancing both the built environment and the green space” This reads like a sick joke to us now. This proposed development has the potential to destroy the only site in the district where the aim of Dublin Corporation’s IAP can be realised – opposite Kilmainham Gaol. Just view the photomontages as submitted by the developer they do nothing to enhance his case quite the contrary they destroy his pathetic arguments to justify his most greedy speculative proposal for our most ancient and historical place. N.B. The so called EIS statement submitted with this application has totally failed to truthfully address the impact of this development on this historic district. The EIS failed to tell of the following 1) The water table in the vicinity of the Nestle site will drop by 9 metres causing subsequent destruction of residences foundations. 2) The ferrying of 15,000 trucks of earth from this site will do untold damage to local foundations and roads. The old spire of St. Jude’s church will be at risk by the constant transportation of this earth for 10 months. Dublin Corporation , we will hold you responsible for the consequences of allowing the above to happen. 3) The great possibility that old lead seams will be disturbed and enter the water source. 4) The destruction of the ancient source of water to St. John’s Well. We repeat the EIS statement as prepared by the developer is a total sham and fails to point out the above. We will judge your decision shortly, posterity will judge your decision for centuries – make the right decision for Kilmainham the consequences are so so serious. JOHN CALLERY - HY BREASAL, SCR, RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION. LEO BERTHISTLE – ST. JOHN’S GARDENS, ASSOCIATION KAY MOONEY – FOSTER TERRACE ,ASSOCIATION. RAL BRONKFORD – CHARLTON TERRACE, ASSOCIATION. PHIL DONNELLY – BEACONSFIELD COURT, ASSOCIATION SARSFIELD FOLEY – TYRECONNELL PARK, ASSOCIATION DENISE FOLEY – KICKHAM ROAD, ASSOCIATION. MARGARET HYLAND – SCR, RESIDENTS, ASSOCIATION. JOSEY FOX- JAMESTOWN ROAD, ASSOCIATION. DANIEL FOLEY – WOODFIELD, INCHICORE, ASSOCIATION. MARIE HEALY- ROTHE ABBEY,SCR,ASSOCIATION Username: Peter Couchman UserEmail: peter.couchman@co-operativefutures.org.uk UserTel: 01993 771 672 UserFAX: Remote Name: 62.254.128.4 Remote User: Date: 30 May 2001 Time: 09:05 Comments I recently visited Kilmainham Gaol from England. I found it an intensely moving experience. The plans to change the neighbourhood would have a detrimental effect on priceless historical treasure and I urge you, for the memories of all those whose fight for Irish freedom is so vividly recalled by the Gaol, to reject these plans. Username: Bill Nagle UserEmail: bnagle@gofree.indigo.ie UserTel: (01) 4551834 UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.133.220 Remote User: Date: 02 June 2001 Time: 20:36 Comments I am appalled at Dublin Corporation's approval of this massive speculative developement at such an historic and sensitive site. This large and high developement will overshadow the historic Kilmainham Gaol and courthouse, the Richmond Tower and adjacent Bully's Acre, the Royal Hospital and garden's, and the movingly beautiful War Memorial Garden. As this site is at the apex of a hill it will have the profound effect of ruining the view, and view's are important, of this area from several vantage points within the nearby Phoenix Park, views made famous by the well known print by James Malton, and by at least two large-scale paintings proudly displayed in the National Gallery of Ireland. I urge the Corporation to immediately reconsider the appropriatness of this high developement. Username: Jim McNally UserEmail: jmcnally@gpo.gov UserTel: 01-410-987-1636 UserFAX: Remote Name: 162.140.64.100 Remote User: Date: 13 June 2001 Time: 12:03 Comments I feel that construction of this project would seriously demean the historical importance of Kilmainham Gaol. It is one of the most moving experiences I have ever had and I feel that it should stay exactly as it was. I was even upset with the Asgard was removed. Username: Michael P. Flynn UserEmail: irishgolf@home.com UserTel: 410-465-7022 UserFAX: 410-465-3863 Remote Name: 24.4.252.24 Remote User: Date: 13 June 2001 Time: 12:24 Comments I object to the building of office blocks around such an historic site. My ancestors left Ireland in 1888, so some of them may have spent time in Kilmainhma Jail. It makes no sense to come to Dublin if the Dublin Corporation is going to do away with the historic sites. Username: Suzanne R. Whitmore UserEmail: swhitmore.league@erols.com UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 207.172.130.190 Remote User: Date: 13 June 2001 Time: 16:25 Comments Baltimore, MD, USA As a proud Irish-American, whose ancestors emigrated to the US in the 18th century, I oppose the current plans for developing the site across from Kilmainham Gaol. The proposed office buildings are out of character with the neighborhood. When I visited Dublin and Kilmainham in October, 2000, I was overwhelmed by the history of the site. I felt reconnected to my Irish heritage and would hate to see anything done that would alter my experience or the experiences of others. Username: Suzanne R. Whitmore UserEmail: swhitmore.league@erols.com (work); campfire@qis.net (home) UserTel: 410-323-0500(work); 410-730-3482(home) UserFAX: 410-323-3298 Remote Name: 207.172.130.190 Remote User: Date: 13 June 2001 Time: 16:26 Comments Baltimore, MD, USA As a proud Irish-American, whose ancestors emigrated to the US in the 18th century, I oppose the current plans for developing the site across from Kilmainham Gaol. The proposed office buildings are out of character with the neighborhood. When I visited Dublin and Kilmainham in October, 2000, I was overwhelmed by the history of the site. I felt reconnected to my Irish heritage and would hate to see anything done that would alter my experience or the experiences of others. Username: Kenneth Mc Carthy UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.177.142 Remote User: Date: 14 June 2001 Time: 12:59 Comments Username: Friends of Kilmainham. UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.205.102 Remote User: Date: 21 June 2001 Time: 08:52 Comments “Friends of Kilmainham” . C/O: John Callery, 2 The Paddocks, Hy Breasal House,SCR, Kilmainham, Dublin 8. May 22nd 2001. 087 6820278. Re: Treasury Holdings and Dublin Corporation's plans for Kilmainham. Dear Visitor, You may be aware that Dublin Corporation granted planning permission for three (3) monolithic office blocks rising to six (6) stories in Kilmainham, (the most ancient and historic district in the city of Dublin ) and of above all places right opposite Kilmainham Gaol the nation’s / Dublin’s foremost National Monument and most visited heritage site. The Old Gaol’s place and importance in Irish history and the birth of the nation is beyond question. What must be rigorously and relentlessly questioned is Dublin Corporation’s preposterous decision to grant permission and in doing so to have acted against the wishes of the entire city council. Dublin Corporation with one stroke ignored the wishes of this city’s democratically elected council. John Fitzgerald has totally ignored not only the wishes of the people of Kilmainham / Inchicore but also the entire city council which represents the people of Dublin City as a whole. As a result we a group are fighting the battle of our lives for the future quality of life of this community (and its growing number of tourists) for generations to come. Permission was granted to Treasury Holdings by Dublin Corporation despite 2000 local and international objections and the combined city council adopting the following resolution on 2nd October 2000. “This city Council views with concern the proposed developments adjacent to Kilmainham Gaol at Inchicore Road and agrees to work to achieve a different type of mixed use development which is sympathetic to the historical and heritage context of this location and which contributes to the development of cultural tourism in the Inchicore / Kilmainham district” Also the following resolution was adopted by the city council on 22nd September 2000. “Dublin City Council calls on the Minister for the Environment and the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands to acquire the site 34 – 38 Inchicore Road, Kilmainham with a view to developing a Heritage Village in consultation with local people and their public representatives” Fifty years ago Kilmainham Gaol and the Royal Hospital were in a state of near total decay and few in this district (or anywhere else) cared. The priority when Rowntree’s built their factory was employment of any source or sort. My father would have crawled in the gates of Rowntree’s if he was fortunate enough to have been offered a job in the late 40s and early 50s. The very benevolent Rowntree family (devout Quakers) and their factory was of immence community gain to this district and further afield. What Treasury Holdings and Dublin Corporation plan for this community (and the city) is the antithesis of the Rowntree working and community ethos. Employment is not the issue it was here 8 years ago never mind 50.These speculative blocks will not bring work, only shift office workers from Stephens Green etc. and actually destroy potential and existing tourism employment in this historic and ancient district. The mentality that existed for so long “is in this not better then what was there in the past” was only ever heard in working or rather non working areas. That attitude no longer applies here. This is the 21st century and the age of Dublin Corporation’s enlightened and much lauded (by themselves) Integrated Area Plans for Dublin urban renewal !! This is a most unique site, the proximity of the Gaol alone which is of national significance in the history of the state, means that the immediate environs of the Gaol is of greater significance in terms of the historical development of the nation than is the case with any other national monument. The Nestle site is also surrounded on all sides by some of Dublin’s most famous listed and protected historical and architectural stone icons. It deserves (and our tourists) better than model LEGO six storey office blocks providing no community gain and actually destroying the great potential appropriate tourism related development of Kilmainham. We have the thousands of tourists visiting the Gaol, the Royal Hospital and the Great War Memorial Park and not as much as a phone box of much needed facilities /amenities for them our ourselves as residents. This site opposite the Gaol has the potential to become a most magnificent tourist related site / public plaza to enhance and develop tourism in Kilmainham / Dublin City. Dublin tour buses no longer include Kilmainham Gaol (a national monument) on their city tour itinerary as there is no parking facilities or tourist related amenities at the Gaol. This the most historic and ancient district in the city is being bypassed and tourists denied access to the abundant history of the area due to a total lack of proper planning and tourism development. All this could change if an appropriate and well thought out design was planned opposite Kilmainham Gaol (the only site in the district that this plan could be developed). The building (or rather dumping upon us and the city’s heritage) of six storey blocks in the year 2001 on this site is preposterous to say the least. The immediate population of Kilmainham is 5000 residents who possess a great pride in living in the last urban village in the city. What will the building of 3 office blocks bring to the area ? · 4000 transient office workers (entering and leaving the district ) the vast majority in private cars. · The resulting parking mayhem over the entire district as Treasury have only allowed for 598 parking places for the above 4000 transient office workers. Eleven (11) places have been allocated for visitors to this massive complex. · It will irrevocably damage and set in decline tourism to the Gaol and the district as a whole. It will totally dwarf and diminish the Gaol , Papworth’s old Courthouse and Johnston’s Richmond Tower and rob them of their rightful architectural and historical dominance on Inchicore Road and the South Circular Road. · Absolutely no community gain will result from this so inappropriate, greedy scheme, quite the contrary this district will suffer for generations if these Macro Blocks are built. To quote the great contemporary Italian architect Renzo Piano “Office blocks are the most selfish buildings one can impose on a community and only provide facilities for enclosed communities” To quote the British Architect (the wall of silence from Irish architects here is deafening) Hugh Pearman who visited Kilmainham via our website (www.kilmainham-gaol.com) on 31st January: “This is the horribly familiar story of a developer trying to squeeze the maximum possible floorspace out of a site, and to hell with the surroundings. There comes a point when basically bad and inappropriate proposals such as this one cannot be improved any more. If it’s overscaled (and it is, grossly) then no amount of fiddling about with the elevations is going to helpmuch. At which point, it is time to wave goodbye to whoever is proposing the bad scheme and invite new approaches from less greedy people better architects, capable of producing a suitable lower-density scheme. Preferably mixed-use. You know homes, shops, cafes as well as offices. That way it doesn’t go dead at 5pm”. In Kilmainham we all (from 4 year old to 84) agree with these eminent international architects and wish to add some thoughts of our own. These blocks will stand sterile and empty over weekends, holiday periods when facilities are most required and in demand. This plan totally contradicts Dublin Corporation’s own Integrated Area Plan for Kilmainham the leading statement of which reads as follows- The Vision: “To bring about the regeneration of Kilmainham-Inchicore, an area of significant historical importance, while protecting and enhancing the built environment”. This famous IAP of ours was launched on the 2nd of November 1999 by John Fitzgerald the City Manager in John Mc Curdy’s East Wing of Kilmainham Gaol !! What is the first great plan of renewal for Kilmainham – speculative office blocks in our face and the face of Kilmainham Gaol and the Royal Hospital !! This development has been planned as if it were a field of the M50 or the Nass Road (where it belongs). It personifies development in Dublin today. It manifests a total lack of attention and respect to its receiving environment both architecturally and historically. Over 2000 objections where lodged with Dublin Corporation on this development last September and they replied (only after the local campaign) in a quite responsible and professional manner with their so called “additional information” (copy enclosed). Treasury Holdings came back Christmas Eve with a “revised scheme” and they increased the development by 40,000 ft.sq. It has to be the only development in the history of planning that after they were asked to consider the developments intense density – it actually increased and this was passed by John Fitzgerald on the 16th February 2001. Dublin Corporation binned their own “additional information” / our 2000 objections and passed the revised more intense scheme!! Welcome to the new era of planning ? We intend fighting this tooth and nail. But we as local residents are up against the GIANTS of this city. 1. Treasury Holdings and their billions. 2. Dublin City Manager and his American type so called “development” at any cost agenda. 3. Minister for Arts and Heritage who has ignored us and all the international objections on www.kilmainham-gaol.com We have only one shot at this to try and protect national heritage and develop tourism for this district and Dublin City. If this development is built then it’s open season for developers in this city - nowhere will be safe. After your visit to us via www.kilmainham-gaol.com we are very confident you can see this development as a potential major “negative externality” not only for Kilmainham but also for Dublin tourism and its presence not only dwarfing and diminishing Kilmainham Gaol but dominating Con Colbert Road the Western Gateway into Dublin City Hoping you are now more informed on this so important issue and its planning implications for Inchicore and Kilmainham / Dublin City, Regards , JOHN CALLERY. On behalf of the “Friends of Kilmainham”. Username: Donoughue's, Emmet Road, Inchicore. UserEmail: A real Dublin booser and "Friend of Kilmainham" UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.205.102 Remote User: Date: 21 June 2001 Time: 12:53 Comments Raffle June 8th 2001 Donoughue’s, Emmet Road, Inchicore. Father Bert Ladies and Gentlemen and fellow “Friends of Kilmainham Gaol ”. If I may commence on a personal note. Most people here tonight have been my neighbours since my parents (John and Rose Callery) moved into Kickham Road from the Ranch in 1969 and over that period of over 30 years this great family house has being a meeting place for friends and relations (of families in all of the distrct) in days of joy and sadness and a most welcome refuge to ponder and gather ones thoughts and above all to keep abreast of local and international news. So I think its very appropriate that we hold our raffle here tonight in aid of our campaign fund our case and to hire professional expert witnesses to help us to argue against at what has being permitted to loom over the very building Kilmainham Gaol of which its finest view can be seen from the garden of this very pub. So before I hand over to Sar Foley who will act as MC for our raffle tonight I just wish to update briefly local residents / and friends present here tonight on our efforts and our appeal to An Bord Plenala (on behalf of the residents of Inchicore and Kilmainham) on what Dublin Corporation consider appropriate for our district. Its nearly a year now since Treasury Holdings first pinned their planning application opposite Kilmainham Gaol for permission to build three office blocks rising to six stories in the face of the Gaol and to loom over our old district as a whole. Our residents group (“The Friends of Kilmainham Gaol”) evolved into what has being called by the developer on national radio as “a small highly organised group of individuals”. In that we are highly organised we wish to agree and as we represent over 2000 local objections on this speculative development for our ancient and historic district he and Dublin Corporation now knows that we represent large and growing local opposition to his speculative plans offering zero community gain for ourselves or our tourism development. Our developing tourism base which must evolve around our most unique tourism sites which will be reversed by this development of 100% rent a space office blocks and its total lack of local and tourism amenities considering the historical and architectural context that surround the Nestle site on all sides. We all know the top of Luby Road or as its locally known “Luby Hill” where it meets Emmet Road. A most magnificent view of the Old Gaol the Courthouse and the Richmond Tower can be observed from this vantage point. If this development is built one will observe the top 3 stories of this speculative scheme rising above the East Wing of the Gaol and running the length of Spencer Terrace, the Gaol and the Old Courthouse. It will dwarf and banish a most magnificent view that we have enjoyed all our lives and deny future generations of Inchicore and Kilmainham what we have taken for granted for so long as we assumed it very presence would ensure its rightfull priority over the new and especially the banal and the ordinary. This most alien development in function and architectural style was sanctioned by Dublin Corporation on the 16th February past. So that is why we are here tonight. An information leaflet has being distributed and also computer images of what this thing will look like. We have not only appealed this grant of permission by Dublin Corporation but we have also requested an oral hearing on this preposterous scheme and that is where you and other residents can help by attending the hearing and making your feelings known. It will be very important that a large local audience is present when our case is put before the inspectors of An Bord Plenala. We will inform the district when we have dates and further details. Finally before I hand over to Father Bert and Sar Foley “the best of luck to everyone who has participated in our raffle” thanks to all the committee and associates who have worked so hard in distributing, collecting and the general chasing that’s involved in such an enterprise and especially to Celia Clifford who for two months now has practically worked night and day on the case – thanks very much Celia for your energy and enthusiasm. Last and not least we wish to thank the new owner Joe Guiney and his wife Carmel for facilitating us here tonight. We where all somewhat apprehensive on hearing of The Glen changing hands earlier this year but as is very evident The Glen sails on under the excellent and friendly stewardship of Joe and Carmel Guiney and as a consequence we know for certain the Old Jack Donoughue is a happy soul tonight – Thank You all. Sorry, not forgetting the much travelled and renown musicians Brian Malone from Drimnagh and all over the USA and John “The Australian” from Ballyfermot – these great lads and musicians play in Bakers on Thomas Street / Meath St every Sunday morning – thanks for your music and support lads. Username: Kilmainham Gaol compareed to Debtor's Gaol Green St. UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.134.24 Remote User: Date: 22 June 2001 Time: 08:42 Comments Green Street Development. · Halston St. Park – former site of Newgate Prison. · Stone finish and nice amenity for children / residents. · Green Street, ground floor of your average apartment block incorporates retail units along its entire ground floor = amenities for old and new residents. · Mostly apartments on both sides of Park. Halston Street. · ST Mary’s Church with its stepped tower has character its presence and varied shapes not dominated by 6 storey office blocks. · Surrounded on all sides with varied buildings all in scale with each other. · New office extension facing North King Street onto The Debtor’s Gaol. I’m glad to see does not imitate the old building and is in scale with the old building. But it is really banal and quite an ordinary block and devoid of any shape other than as flat as a mirror on its northern elevation. Office block on Green Street (again run of the mill) but not rising to diminish this old district. Nothing remarkable but in scale with it’s surroundings. · Unlike Kilmainham Gaol the Debtor’s Gaol is not a National Monument surrounded on all sides by protected structures and visited by thousands of tourists all seeking amenities and facilities which are so lacking opposite Kilmainham’s unique national / international heritage sites. · General topography around Green Street is the same and extension to Debtor’s Gaol is insignificant in its built environment when compared to development opposite Kilmainham Gaol which is proposed to sit on the highest naturally elevated site in Dublin West- consisting of 3 purely speculative blocks - 100% rent a space office blocks of 650,000 ft sq. and rising to 6 stories. No comparison exists here with the tiny Green Street scheme which is in scale and tacked neatly onto the Debtors Gaol. Some comments answered on Treasury’s Plans for Kilmainham. “An apartment scheme sounds fine” There is no ( ZERO) residential element within the 650,000 ft sq. Macro Blocks. “the city must develop” Old Kilmainham’s tourism must develop and have priority over office blocks that could be built up the road on Goldenbridge or Jamestown Road Industrial estates. “the city must live” What is proposed for Kilmainham is dead office blocks after 5pm and over weekends and holiday periods when the tourists are here in abundance to face these empty dead spaces on leaving the Gaol and the Royal Hospital. With only people having business (9-5) in the blocks availing of its magnificent location and panoramic views. Office blocks are not an appropriate development for Kilmainham considering its vast tourism potential presented by all its heritage sites and parks and zero amenities / appropriate development. If the function of this work planned for here had substantial community / tourism gain (as Kilmainham cries out for) then its architectural merits would be of secondary importance – this has neither. · The Corporation and Treasury only envisage rates and rent respectively. In the mid 60s nearly 100% local voluntary labour (of all political persuasions) restored the Gaol and saved it from it from becoming a national ruin-when the entire roof had fallen in. A similar fate faced The Royal Hospital when all it was, was an abandoned playground / wonderland for us to play as kids. · All this was done when no developer or government agency was even remotely interested in the preservation of either architectural or historical icon. And now when the district is so popular with visitors, it’s to be dominated by 3 monolithic office blocks- it just does not make sense. · This scheme opposite the Gaol is nothing less then a new version of “Park House” multiplied by 3 that stands on the North Circular Road above Stoneybatter. It’s devoid of any character other then its monolithic proportions and simple monetary function – rent a space office blocks. “The proposed site is a field” But not just any old field in any old place. What’s planned is just not good enough (in purpose and architectural style) considering the context into which it’s proposed to land and not on a short visit but to stay for generations like Park House on the NCR. “Anything would be better than what’s there already” Can this be a serious comment. ??ANYTHING?? considering the unique architectural and historical stone icons that surround this site on all sides. “Our architectural heritage is precious the bit we have” Very true, and a substantial amount of it stands in Kilmainham and all in the vicinity of the Gaol. “ A zealous streak of anti development running through everyone today (read the visitors book on the site).” The following (among many) have visited www.Kilmainham-gaol.com and have commented publicly as follows. 1. Liam O’Brien, California. “As a film producer for Discovery Channel, I have featured Kilmainham Gaol in our serious “Invisible Places” which has been seen by over 30 million people and is still aired worldwide. Fortunately I did not have to then and when I film at Kilmainham in the future I hope I will not have to include these oversized, out of perspective, dreadfully lumpy and monumental office blocks in any exterior shot of the Gaol. In my opinion these buildings as drawn, ruin the experience that is Kilmainham. Liam O Brien Los Angeles, California.” 2. Michael Chretien , (Neatherlands). “In my capacity of an University professor dealing with heritage and inner city revitalisation, I am convinced that such so-called “modern” development near Kilmainham Gaol would simply be a crime against intelligence, against the environment, against the very basic principles of urban development and Irish identity. After the bunker already committed along the Liffey, this would definitely promote Dublin Corporation as the champion of the worse urban projects worldwide.” 3. Hugh Pearman . London Times Architectural critic. “This is the horrible story of a developer trying to squeeze the maximum possible floorspace out of a site, and to hell with the surroundings. There comes a point when basically bad and inappropriate proposals such as this one cannot be “improved” any more. If it’s overscaled (and it is, grossly) then no amount of fiddling about with the elevations is going to help much. At which point it is time to wave goodbye to whoever is proposing the bad scheme and invite new approaches from less greedy people fielding better architects, capable of producing a suitable lower density scheme. Preferably mixed-use. You know, homes shops,cafes, etc as well as offices. That way it doesn’t go all dead at 5pm” 4 Suzanne Barret (USA). “I have visited Kilmainham Gaol four times over the last 12 years, twice to gather information for a novel set during Ireland’s War of Independence, and a fourth time to write an in depth feature for my travel website IRELAND FOR VISITORS. I think it is a misuse of land to develop across from a National Monument with a high-rise office complex and parking garage. Surely the property could be better be used to benefit the huge number of visitors to the Gaol and the nearby art museum by providing visitor related resources” And to conclude with comments by Renzo Piano on office blocks in general: “Office blocks have a bad reputation because they are selfish, they are totally enclosed worlds” Username: Joseph Kelly UserEmail: newgate_99@yahoo.com UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 66.120.233.50 Remote User: Date: 22 June 2001 Time: 22:13 Comments Dear Sir: I am writing to you from Los Angeles, California and am very concerned about the proposed buildings across the street from Kilmainham Gaol. I am a former guide at the gaol prior to emigrating to America. The Kilmainham area including the Gaol, Courthouse and War Memorial should be preserved as is. Please do not allow this development to proceed. Sincerely Joseph Kelly Username: St John's Eve Kilmainham June 23rd 2001. UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.168.166.180 Remote User: Date: 23 June 2001 Time: 14:53 Comments This evening 23rd of June is the Eve Of St. John. Until 1795 in the grounds of The Royal Hospital Kilmainham this evening was celebrated around the Well of St. John, where thousands gathered until its suppression in 1795. This evening thanks to Betty Frrell of Rialto a small group wiill meet at 7pm outside of Kilmainham Courthouse and celebrate this the Eve of St. John for the first time in 2 centuries. What has prompted this spiritual renewal is the selfish and greedy scheme planned across the road from Kilmainham Gaol which if built will divert and destroy the ancient flow of water to St. John's Well. So not only are the Corporation and Treasury Holdings ignoring the unique architecture around this site but ancient history and ancient traditions are being built upon and turned into a parking garage. Username: OLD KILMAINHAM. UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.125.205.165 Remote User: Date: 28 June 2001 Time: 12:31 Comments OLD KILMAINHAM SAYS NO TO ALIEN OFFICE BLOCKS AND YES TO TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AS ONE WOULD SEE IN ANY OTHER EUROPEAN COUNTRY ON A SITE SURROUNDED BY CONSERVATION AREAS AND ARCHITECTURAL AND HISTORICAL STONE ICONS. Username: Dorn simon UserEmail: newdorn@hotmail.com UserTel: 00353 1 4912481 UserFAX: same as above Remote Name: 159.134.227.77 Remote User: Date: 28 June 2001 Time: 23:48 Comments I think it is appalling that Dublin Corporation and that successful career minded people could turn thier backs so brashly on Irelands history, and ancient and historical sites, is there not enough of these sites being bought up and sold off for planning permission, or simply bulldozed already in Ireland? I would of thought, being English myself that this site especially would hold some glow in Irish hearts, due to the patriotic nature of the site. Discusted, and willing to take part in the fight. Dorn Simon Dublin Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 140.212.204.26 Remote User: Date: 03 July 2001 Time: 19:41 Comments Consider the Irish economy and the parttourism plays before you make a final decision. Kilmainham is a major tourist attraction as well as a historical site for Irish history Username: Tom Geoghegan UserEmail: tgeoghegan@blueyonder.co.uk UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 213.48.141.127 Remote User: Date: 07 July 2001 Time: 20:19 Comments Once you destroy your History(and Buildings are History)then you destroy the soul of your country. Don't make the same mistakes that other Cities in other countries have done---office blocks are souless,ugly structures of steel and concrete. Once you have taken the WRONG step their is no turning back! Think wisely, and leave Kilmainham ALONE! Tom Geoghegan Scotland Username: Patrick mc Mahon UserEmail: patmcmahon@hotmail.com UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 194.165.173.84 Remote User: Date: 12 July 2001 Time: 18:41 Comments on my way home from work I seen your billboard. I am just curious but what do you mean by alien office blocks?. Does this have anything to do do with the department of justice and immigration moving to new premises or is just a term you use to discribe the office building. Are you against the whole project or just the size of it. rsvp thank you. Pat Username: Pupillo Paolo UserEmail: zebramasher@libero.it UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 151.14.19.68 Remote User: Date: 14 July 2001 Time: 15:23 Comments Dear Sirs, I am writing to let You know that even here in Italy, we know about the importance of Kilmainham Gaol. I think Your country is growing more and more but You should never lose contact with Your huge past times. In 1996, when i first went to Ireland, I left Your country after visiting Kilmainham and NOT the Guinness Museum and Brewery!!! I came to know that the area in front of Kilmainham should undergo massive care but I think not THE KIND You decided. I hope You will change Your advice for the sake of Your country. Best regards. Username: Dr. Dara Fitzpatrick UserEmail: dfitzpat@tcd.ie UserTel: 4531136 UserFAX: +353-1-6712826 Remote Name: 134.226.1.194 Remote User: Date: 17 July 2001 Time: 11:46 Comments To all concerned, Try to visualise these office blocks 60 ft away from Newgrange, Clonmacnoise or Dun Aongus. The country would be outraged and the international community would think we have lost the plot. Why has "the corpo" in its wise capacity chosen to make an exception to such a ludicrous venture. The building I'm sure would look well in Tallaghts new town centre or another artificial "civic" type setting but to place it in the proposed location is beyond desecration. As a tenant of Inchicore road I am ashamed I have not taken a more active role opposing this development. Having seen the sketches on this website I am greatly disturbed by this affront to the local community. In brief I can only echo the sentiments expressed so eloquently by John Callerey and others who have contibuted the web site. This proposal needs to be communicated to the wider public if it is to be successfully opposed. As for those in Dublin Corporation who have let this project reach this stage it is jus a reflection of their professional incompetences of which I hope we will not have to live with. Best regards, Dr. Dara Fitzpatrick Research Fellow, Dept. of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin Username: Evelyn D'Arcy UserEmail: edarcy@tramway.ie UserTel: 01-4975716 UserFAX: 01-4975886 Remote Name: 193.120.44.33 Remote User: Date: 18 July 2001 Time: 13:22 Comments Please don't destroy another area of Old Dublin with another oversized office block, which will congest the area during the day and leave it empty and dark by night. Money and greed seems to be the guiding light when it comes to planning - is it any wonder people have no belief in politicans today? Please think of the future and to the past and have respect for your heritage. Evelyn D'Arcy Dublin. Username: UserEmail: UserTel: UserFAX: Remote Name: 159.134.224.87 Remote User: Date: 25 July 2001 Time: 12:11 Comments i live in dublin i pass by kilmainham jail most days and i would not like to see these office blocks go up the proposed height as i feel they would overshadow the jail and they would be an eyesore to the area.maybe a compromise could be reached to build them at a lower level and not over shadow one of the countries most treasured histroical buildings. Username: Karen Byrne UserEmail: byrne_karen@hotmail.com UserTel: 0875217721 UserFAX: Remote Name: 147.252.161.239 Remote User: Date: 30 July 2001 Time: 15:18 Comments I would agree with the residents of the Kilmainham area, that these offices would be an eye sore in an historical area. having spent many weeks some years back trying to save St. Judes Church from being knocked down I think that they should stand there ground, although only the |