Judge approves demolition of 29 modular homes built without permission in Dublin

Judge Richard Humphreys of the High Court has approved the demolition of 29 unauthorized modular homes located near Brittas, Co Dublin, following a legal challenge by South Dublin County Council and a local resident, John O’Neill. The ruling confirms the need for the properties to be removed and the site fully restored in accordance with a detailed remediation plan. The development, undertaken by Branach Developments, which is registered at Thomastown, Caragh, Co Kildare, was constructed without proper planning permissions. The site is owned by Mullnassa and Threshford, whose registered addresses are at Rock Road, Blackrock, Dublin. Both parties have been ordered to cover the costs incurred during the legal proceedings. These include a payment of €60,000 to BKC Solicitors, representing O’Neill, by August 7th. The court's judgment, issued on Friday, outlines a structured timeline for the necessary actions. Demolition work is set to begin between July 6th and August 17th, with initial tasks involving the removal of windows, doors, roof tiles, and any salvageable materials. From August 17th to September 21st, all units must be completely demolished, including the excavation and removal of their foundations and the dismantling of new roads and footpaths. A post-clearance visual validation by a South Dublin County Council engineer is scheduled between September 21st and 28th to confirm the total removal of all structures, foundations, and any buried waste prior to the placement of topsoil. Following this phase, further steps from September 21st through November 2nd involve soil remediation and the restoration of the landscape, including the planting of hedgerows and trees. The entire process aims to return the site to its original condition, ensuring compliance with environmental and planning standards. The court had previously directed the removal of the 29 homes in June, emphasizing the need for thorough site remediation in line with a specified plan. In a subsequent order, the judge mandated a €150,000 bond from the developers. While acknowledging that this amount covers only a portion of the required costs, the judge stated it offers some assurance that the planned remediation will be executed. The case highlights ongoing challenges in enforcing planning regulations in Ireland, particularly concerning developments that bypass formal approvals. The involvement of both local authorities and residents underscores the community impact of such unauthorized constructions. As the demolition and restoration proceed according to the court’s schedule, the focus remains on ensuring the site meets all regulatory requirements and is returned to a suitable state for future use.