The Land Development Agency (LDA) has launched the first phase of public engagement for the 11.3-hectare Dundrum Central development on the site of the Central Mental Hospital, which is moving location.

The LDA has commenced public engagement stage for the design of around 1,200 homes at Dundrum Central.

A planning application for the project is expected to be submitted in mid-2021 with construction to start in 2022, subject to An Bord Pleanála approval.

The first phase of public engagement, which has commenced, is aimed at gathering information from the local area. The LDA has sent information and a survey to over 5,000 homes within a 1km radius of the development, seeking residents' views.

Following this initial step, it is intended to hold a series of public events to outline design concepts for the site in late 2020. In early 2021, there will then be a subsequent series of events to discuss the detailed masterplan for the development. The listening and consultation elements of the project, which will take place over eight to ten months, will help to shape the final design, so that communities and stakeholders can have their say.

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Barry Chambers, Project Lead with the Land Development Agency said: "This marks another step forward in our plans for Dundrum Central. Commencing now and for the duration of the project, the LDA is reaching out to stakeholders to build on our understanding of the local community. It is imperative for the LDA that the community has its' say in the design of the scheme.

"This is an important project for the development of Dundrum. In addition to the potential to deliver around 1,200 new homes, this site offers an opportunity to strengthen the community infrastructure for existing residents and organisations.

"The site also includes some important heritage aspects. The grounds and buildings at Dundrum Central have been hidden from sight for nearly two centuries. This offers great opportunity in terms of unlocking a beautiful space, but it creates limitations on how much of the site we will ultimately be able to use. That envelope for development will emerge through the consultation phase. By engaging early and over a long period with the community, we are confident of developing a project which will enhance the Dundrum region both for existing residents and for those seeking much needed new homes."