asked the Minister for Local Government if the Dublin Corporation have any power to restrain the Electricity Supply Board from demolishing Georgian houses in Lower Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin; and, if so, if he will ensure that it is enforced.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Demolition of Georgian Houses.
41.
Such of the houses in question as were not occupied by the Electricity Supply Board for the purposes of their undertaking prior to the passing of the planning resolution by Dublin Corporation are subject to planning control under which the Corporation as planning authority have power to prohibit the demolition or alteration of structures and to refuse permission for redevelopment proposals. I am informed that no proposals have been received by the planning authority in respect of any such houses. The matter is one for consideration by the planning authority in the first instance. There is statutory provision for appeal to the Minister for Local Government against decisions of the planning authority. Unless and until it comes before me by way of appeal I have no function in the matter.
Would it be correct to say that it is open to any citizen of Dublin to lodge an appeal with the Minister for Local Government against a decision of the planning authority or is it necessary to have some property interest in the plan to acquire status for the purpose of an appeal?
In theory, any citizen who feels aggrieved by what is proposed can appeal. In practice, it is usually some person with adjoining property. I do not imagine it would be impossible to have an appeal. In fact, I am sure there will be appeals.