The Green Party has welcomed the approval by An Bord Pleanala for a Special Development Zone (SDZ) for Cherrywood, Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown.

The plan which has been five years in the making, has been with An Bord Pleanala for the last 15 months, and a final decision for the go-ahead was given yesterday.

The project promises a new urban centre for the South Dublin region, and will provide housing for approximately 20,000 people, employment in the technology park and town centre for approximately 18,000, and will create a much needed stimulus to the economy of Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown.

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Green Party local election candidate, former Councillor for Dun Laoghaire - Rathdown, and Cherrywood resident, Tom Kivlehan, has welcomed the announcement.

He said: "The SDZ plan, which puts a priority on delivering social infrastructure like public transport, schools and local amenities, in tandem with much needed housing, is a great result for the wider South Dublin community.

"As a Councillor I fought to make sure that a sustainable plan, one which provided the facilities for the community alongside housing, was implemented. After all the mistakes of the past, this is an important step towards creating a vibrant South Dublin community.

"Responsible planning is key to ensuring that residents have the necessary educational, recreational and employment opportunities in their area, which will contribute to their overall quality of life."

(CD/JP)