Ardstone's Dublin 6 Housing Project Faces Third Appeal After Seven Years
Ardstone's €69 million Dublin 6 housing project, acquired in 2019, faces its third appeal. Despite three planning grants and two judicial reviews over seven years, no construction has begun. Residents continue to challenge the scale and impact of the proposed developments.
Real estate developer Ardstone purchased a 10-acre plot in Dublin 6 from the Jesuit Order in 2019 for approximately €69 million. The site, part of the larger 18-acre Milltown Park, has been the subject of multiple planning applications and legal challenges over seven years, with no construction yet commenced.
In 2021, Ardstone, through Sandford Living Ltd, sought permission for 667 homes. An Bord Pleanála granted approval, but local residents initiated High Court judicial review proceedings, citing concerns over scale, traffic, tree removal, and building height (up to 10 floors). In May 2024, An Bord Pleanála conceded issues, including a conflict of interest involving a former deputy chairman's brother, leading to a new decision request.
Ardstone submitted a modified plan for 636 homes in 2023, which Dublin City Council approved. This also faced judicial review by residents' associations, who argued the density contravened the Dublin City Development Plan 2022–2028, and raised issues with tree removal and environmental assessments. A High Court hearing is pending.
In January, Ardstone renewed its bid with a third scheme for 562 units, reducing the highest block from 10 to eight storeys. Dublin City Council granted permission last month, but An Coimisiún Pleanála confirmed a third-party appeal has been lodged by Cherryfield Avenue Residents’ Association, citing overbearing and overshadowing impacts. Norwood residents also appealed, citing excessive density and height. A decision on these appeals is expected later this year.