The Green Party has welcomed plans to include an extra 500 homes in development proposals for the Poolbeg SDZ in Dublin.

The party also secured agreement for 5% of the development to be designated for cultural and artistic purposes, for the Dublin Bikes to be installed and for room for a Luas expansion to be catered for.

Green Party Councillor Claire Byrne said: "We are very pleased that we have secured a commitment that 5% of the development will be guaranteed for arts, cultural and community purposes. This is unprecedented, and will go a long way in addressing the deficit in studio space for artists and creatives in the city, as well as providing the vital cultural and community space for both local residents and the wider city. Poolbeg is a unique opportunity to get sustainable urban development right. We must build vibrant communities, not just developments."

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Councillor Patrick Costello said: "While the reduction in Part V requirements from 20% to 10% meant we had to fight for more social and affordable homes, we welcome the fact that 30% of the development will now be allocated for social and affordable homes. It was vital for the Green Party that, in the midst of a housing and homelessness crisis, that this development catered for all sections of the population – not just those who can afford to buy."

(CD/LM)