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Belmayne bombshell sparks angry reaction

Wednesday, 29 October 2008

PUBLIC representatives in Dublin North East have reacted angrily to news that a major development proposed for their area has been plunged into doubt. There was huge disappointment last week when it was announced that the future of Belmayne in Dublin 13 is now in doubt after a deal between Dublin City Council and the development company had fallen through. Developers Stanley Holdings have told the city council that they are unable to proceed with the e60 million deal to purchase 23 acres at the site for the construction of a town square opposite the Hilton Hotel at the N32. Belmayne was launched as ‘Dublin's most stylish new address’ in 2007, with showhouses designed by celebrity interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen and gardens by Diarmuid Gavin. A spokesman for Dublin City Council told Northside People that despite this setback they will continue to work with the developers with a view to finding the best solution to the situation. “Since August 2006 we have been working on an agreement to sell the 23 acres at Belmayne to the developers for the construction of the town square,” he said. “We have had to renegotiate a number of times since and the price rose to e60.4 million in our ongoing talks.” The spokesman said that unfortunately things became tight in the economy and the developers found it harder to meet the terms of the agreement. “They were not contractually bound but now wish to stay involved and help draw up plans,” he added.  “The city council will be examining how best to proceed at its next meeting.” Public representatives have roundly criticised the announcement, claiming that people who have already purchased properties have been left stranded in an unfinished development. Donaghmede ward councillor Tom Brabazon (FF) said the town square amenity had been a factor in purchasers deciding to buy their properties. "I am devastated by this announcement as so much positive planning and community gain was to come from this,” stated Cllr Brabazon. “I am calling on the Minister for the Environment, John Gormley, to intervene to ensure that this area is completed as soon as possible." Dublin North East TD Tommy Broughan (Lab) along with Donaghmede ward councillors Anne Carter (Lab) and Sean Kenny (Lab) have called for a full report from Dublin City Manager John Tierney on the aborted deal. Deputy Broughan has also vowed to raise the matter in Dáil Eireann with Minister Gormley. Dublin North East TD Terence Flanagan (FG) appealed to the Dublin City Manager to enter into negotiations with the developer to ensure that the promised town centre gets the go ahead. When contacted by Northside People, Stanley Holdings were unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.