An Bord Pleanála (ABP) has admitted it made an error in its decision to approve plans for a large-scale housing development at St Anne's Park in Raheny.

Earlier this year, the planning body granted permission for the over 500-unit scheme to go ahead at the North Dublin site.

However, ABP has now told the High Court it made an error by approving the scheme through its fast-track Strategic Housing Development system.

Sinn Féin Dublin Bay North TD, Denise Mitchell, welcomed the news.

"We in Sinn Féin have been on record expressing our serious concerns over the fast-track planning process that led to the initial decision to grant permission," she said.

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"We said at the time when the Bill was making its way through the Dáil that it undermines Local Authorities, exclude citizens and local communities from the planning process and impedes the building of sustainable communities. Today's news from the High Court has clearly vindicated that view.

"Sinn Féin is not against housing developments, and we want to see the creation and development of sustainable communities in our city. However, the initial decision by An Bord Pleanála to grant permission for such a large development flew in the face of Dublin City Council's Development Plan which clearly designated the lands for institutional and community use. ABP also accepted that it had made an error in an assessment it carried out under the EU Habitats Directive."

Clontarf ward Cllr, Ciarán O'Moore, added: "I want to commend the residents and the I Love St Anne's group who took this Judicial Review however they should not have had to do that. The new fast-track planning process totally disregards the views and concerns of local communities, and that is simply not acceptable."

(LM)