Protecting Knocksink Wood: A Community Meeting in Enniskerry

A well-attended public meeting took place recently to discuss the future of Knocksink Wood SAC (Special Area of Conservation) and its place in the wider planning landscape for Enniskerry. Residents turned out in strong numbers to listen and share their views.

A number of public representatives were present. I spoke, along with others, about planning in Enniskerry, the need for appropriate housing in the right locations (including options for downsizing), infrastructure, public transport, the stalled Fassoroe development, and the future of Knocksink Nature Reserve.

There was broad agreement among those in attendance that this land needs to be rezoned. This can only be pursued through the submission process for the next County Development Plan (CDP) in 2028. In the meantime, the community will need to maintain pressure through lobbying and remain vigilant to prevent further planning applications being lodged on this AA2-designated land.

If the rezoning effort is successful, the intention is for the community to work together to develop amenities for all stakeholders, while continuing to protect, and potentially expand Knocksink Wood SAC.

This sits alongside a recent ruling from the Planning Commissioner of An Coimisiún Pleanála:

"The Commission, therefore, cannot be satisfied beyond reasonable scientific doubt, that the proposed development, either individually or in combination with other plans and projects, would not adversely affect the integrity of Knocksink Wood Special Area of Conservation (Site Code 000725) in view of the site's conservation objectives."