Month: January 2026

Central government has brought in Section 28 of the National Planning Framework (NPF), which demands that Fingal County Council rezones up to 50% extra land.

There’s already a large surplus of residential (RA) zoned land in Fingal, so this new policy will not help solve the housing crisis. Unfortunately, under this revised policy some Greenbelts in Fingal have been proposed for rezoning. Therefore, we need to act fast. (See sample submisson the end of this post).

Fingal County Council have launched a public consultation process with a 29th January deadline, inviting submissions from the community.

It’s important that we get as many submissions from our community calling for the Greenbelt to be protected. Please ensure you include your complete name and address, otherwise your submission won’t be accepted. If completed by hand please print your name and address in block letters, to ensure the submission is fully legible. Ideally, include your Eircode too.

Please share with friends and family and ask them to make a submission also. Please note: its one submission per person.

You can make a submission either (see sample submission below);

1.Online by visiting Fingal County Council website and clicking “Proposed Variation No.1 to Fingal Development Plan 2023 -2029” (see image below) and following the necessary steps.

2. By completing a hard copy and either posting or deliver in person to Fingal County Council (you can use the sample submission below if you wish)

*** SAMPLE SUBMISSION***

Senior Executive Officer,

Planning and Strategic Infrastructure Department,

Fingal County Council,

County Hall,Main Street,

Swords,

Co. Dublin,

K67 X8Y2.

Proposed Variation No. 1 Fingal County Development Plan 2023 – 2029.

Ref: Greenbelt Swords/Maps Sheet 8: Swords/Retention of Brackenstown and Forest Great Greenbelt (Greenbelt between Rivervalley, Ashfield, Ridgewood and Knocksedan).

I welcome that the proposed Variation Plan 1 retains and protects the above named Greenbelt in its entirety.

I urge Fingal County Council to maintain this strategy in future Development Plans.

The Greenbelt helps offset the impact of worsening climate change, prevents urban sprawl and promotes sustainable community building. It also safeguards against the destruction of wildlife habitat and remaining natural areas. 

The Greenbelt is the “lungs” of our community, providing a noise free buffer and aids in the provision of clean air.

Name: __________________________________________________

Address:_________________________________________________