Dublin's new city plan

Central to the newly drafted city development plan is the proposal that no new lands in Dublin be rezoned for housing until after 2017. The plan, which has been released for public consultation, also proposes new regulations for building height and a greater emphasis on environmental standards.

City planners are satisfied that the current amount of residentially zoned land in Dublin is adequate, while undeveloped land which had previously been zoned for housing might now see its status changed to 'Z10A'. This newly created category allows for mixed use development of residential, commercial and retail in urban centres, but would concentrate on lower density building.

The plan focuses on improving inner-suburban centres such as Finglas, Ballymun and Phibsborough on the north-side, and Rathmines on the south-side. In addition it incorporates moves to make the city more pedestrian-friendly as well as promoting the renovation of the city's quays and elimination of all derelict buildings in the centre.

To view the city plan see: www.dublincitydevelopmentplan.ie.