Dear all

If you have not already done so, I strongly urge you to complete the Council's survey regarding the future use of the stables and courtyards at Rathfarnham Castle.

Link to the survey: here

Please also encourage your family, friends and neighbours to complete the survey – it only takes 5 minutes.

THE CLOSING DATE FOR THE SURVEY IS THIS SUNDAY 26 MAY.

It's important that as many people as possible make submissions as each individual submission is given the same weight in the assessment process as a submission on behalf of a group like a Residents Association.

I recently met with Rathfarnham Castle Residents Association who have prepared a comprehensive alternative proposal for the redevelopment at the Castle. They have prepared the drawing above, which if adopted by the Council, would encompass much of what this petition was designed to achieve. I am happy to endorse the RCRA plan and encourage you to refer to it in your own submission to the Council.

The Council is giving us just 100 words at the end of their survey to make our own submissions and suggestions. I suggest the following 100 words: 

"I disagree with SDCC's proposed large new commercial development and the acquisition of Sean Keating Garden for car parking. I endorse the Rathfarnham Castle Residents' Association alternative plan as it meets both the Community & SDCC needs.

The RCRA plan will:  

• Drive development and tourism in Rathfarnham
• Retain Seán Keating Garden
• Create performance & cultural space in Cromwell’s Fort
• Provide new commercial & retail space
• Include an interpretative centre about Rathfarnham
• Include a renovation and historical exhibit at the original Seismograph House
• Provide for additional car parking
• Be environmentally sound by utilising old buildings over a large new build

Whatever you submit, please ensure your voice is heard by the Council before midnight on Sunday 26 May. 

Please also share this email as widely as possible, and feel free to email me if you have any queries.

Many thanks for your continued support.

Kind Regards

Ciarán Ahern