Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 31 March 2021
489. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will ensure financial support to develop the graving docks Ringsend, Dublin 4 as a heritage site and that could be used to develop apprenticeships on boat repair; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17045/21]
View answerCity Block 19 is designated within the North Lotts and Grand Canal Dock Strategic Development Zone Planning Scheme (SDZ) to deliver a 40% residential, 30% commercial and 30% community, cultural and or/recreational development mix on the site. The site is identified as significant within the scheme for its 'unique setting, heritage value and potential for development that includes community uses.’
Furthermore, the Dublin Docklands Social Infrastructure Audit which was commissioned as part of the North Lotts & Grand Canal Dock Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) Planning Scheme to align the roll out of City Block development with social and community infrastructure needs recommended 'That provision be made for the development of a maritime museum or heritage centre in Dublin Docklands, considering feasibility, potential cross cutting measures with other heritage initiatives, and the wider development plans of Dublin Port.'
Cognisant of the heritage importance of the site, and in compliance with the requirements of the SDZ, Waterways Ireland commissioned a Conservation Report in 2018, which acknowledged that Waterways Ireland had already opened up two of the graving docks enhancing this culturally important site. It suggested that these remain open, and maintained, as part of any future development.
