A campaign to save a community pitch in Dublin’s north inner city has been given a major boost after An Comisúin Pleanála refused permission for the development.
An appeal was then lodged by a number of people, including Olympic Gold Medalist Kellie Harrington and Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald.
Local councillors Janice Boylan, Nial Ring, and Malachy Steensen were also part of the group who took the appeal, while the campaign to save the pitch had received vocal support from a number of local sporting figures such as Troy Parrott, Olivia O’Toole, Keith Tracey, and Wes Hoolahan.
An Comisúin Pleanála today confirmed that permission for the development was refused yesterday, and that the parties involved were notified.
It said that documents detailing the reason for the decision will be published in the coming days.
In a post on Instagram, Ms Harrington said that “today we are taking the win”.
“Just to let everyone know that we have managed to save the pitch, I’m sure the fight will continue after this but so far so good,” she said.
Ms McDonald also welcomed the news, calling it a “huge victory” for the local community.
“Communities should never be forced to choose between housing and spaces like this for our young people to play.
“Now that the pitch is saved, we need to see a plan from Dublin City Council to develop it to its full potential for generations of children from this community,” Ms McDonald added.
Tuath Housing Association has been contacted for comment.