Until recently, Enniskerry has been the subject of a “Local Area Plan”, the latest of which was due to expire this year but was extended until 2016. Wicklow County Council (“WCC”) has advised that there will not be a new Local Area Plan for Enniskerry. Instead, it will be covered as part of the Wicklow County Development Plan.

WCC has commenced work on the new County Development Plan for the period 2016 to 2022. They have invited people to make submissions or observations regarding the review of the existing plan and preparation of the new plan. The closing date for these submissions or observation is 23rd December 2014.

This stage of the process is for the purpose of developing the policies to deliver the overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the county and for the purpose of developing the ‘core strategy’ of the plan. Therefore, submissions are required to be ‘strategic’ in nature. Proposals for zoning of particular land for any purpose will not be considered at this stage and should not be made.

This process is very important for the future of Enniskerry. Therefore, you are strongly encouraged to visit the relevant section of the WCC website (see www.wicklow.ie/wicklow-county-development-plan-2016-2022) and participate in the process. As you may know, it is understood that there may be very substantial housing developments close to Enniskerry during the period of the new plan, which could have a significant impact on the village and surrounds. Please do not miss this opportunity to have your voice heard.

In addition to individual submissions, Enniskerry Forum is willing aggregate submissions and make a submission on behalf of the community. Therefore, even if you have made a direct submission (which is encouraged) you can send details of your views/submission to enniskerryforum@gmail.com no later than Saturday 20th December and they will be considered where appropriate in the Enniskerry Forum submission.