CE Report on the Draft Plan Consultation Volume 1

Chapter 6

Green and Blue Infrastructure, Open Space and Biodiversity

Issues / Recommendations / Observations

Sub. No.

Chief Executive’s Respon se & Recommendation

(iii) Submission relates specifically to theMardyke area. It asks for protection and regeneration of the Mardyke area, with particular attention given to the tree lining on both sides of the walk.

398

This area is included in the Area of High Landscape Value designation. The GBI Study and Draft Plan include objectives for urban tree planting, and a tree management plan is being produced for Cork City. Recommendation: No change.

Areas of High Landscape Value

(i) Submission made in relation the green areas around the Lough and asks for protection of two green spaces close to the Lough, to protect biodiversity in the area: o What remains of the Priest's Field at the Lough Church, to be kept as habitat for bats, birds and other wildlife in the area. o Green area adjoining the Church car park next to The Spires development which provides invaluable habitat for the bats which control the insects at the Lough. Consideration should also be given to restricting the removal of green space in gardens and areas surrounding the Lough and any similar area in Cork City. Trees in this area should not be cut down without a specific application.

192

There are two parcels of land at this location. proposed to be zon ed “ ZO 1 Sustainable Residential Neighbourhoods ” in the Draft Plan . Land parcel 1 is located to the rear of the properties on Bandon Road. Parcel 2 is located within the grounds of the Church. These two sites are in private ownership it would be inappropriate to zone them “ ZO 16 Public Open Space ”. The lands at this location are bound by an existing Architectural Conservation Area within the Church grounds. Planning legislation currently provides certain exemptions to provide hard surfaces in gardens subject to restrictions. Other legislative codes regulate the removal of trees (other than trees protected by Tree Protection Orders). Recommendation: No change.

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