Concerns over new Newbridge housing development

CONCERNS have been raised about the location of a proposed mixed tenure housing development at Rickardstown, Newbridge.

The proposal includes 136 homes, 40 of which are affordable housing and 96 social housing, a creche, and pedestrian links to Roseberry Hill estate.

While the addition of housing is welcome, many worry about the proposed development’s location which has estates such as Rosberry Hill and Rosconnell around its perimeter.

An information meeting about the development is set to take place on Thursday 27 March.

Cllr Chris Pender said: “Housing is a real issue in Newbridge, and we absolutely need more homes—but development must be done right.

“It has to be sustainable, well-planned, and in the best interest of the community—both for those who already live here and those who will move in.”

“The current proposal for Rickardstown raises significant concerns that I believe need to be addressed before it can be considered a suitable development for this area.”

Many in the area are concerned about the proposed development, and the stresses it will add onto pre-existing problems in the area such as traffic, anti-social behaviour and a pressure on local services.

Cllr Pender calls the area at Rickardstown an “over-gentrified area” and said that every issue across Newbridge is “compounded in the area,” mentioning that it can take over a half an hour for residents to leave their housing estates by car in the morning on the way to work or school.

He said: “It’s a fantastic idea and absolutely needed, but there needs to be large-scale developments such as a playground and a community centre down the end of the town.”

Cllr Pender added: “This is really important – this will have to go to Part 8 and your cllrs are the ones that have the final say.”

The community of Newbridge and especially in the area of the proposed development are encouraged to head to the information event on 27 March from 4pm to 7pm in Newbridge Town Hall.

Cllr Pender said: “This is your chance to review the plans, ask tough questions, and push for a better approach. If you have concerns, now is the time to make your voice heard before decisions are finalised.”

He urged anyone that is attending to bring ideas on how to improve the plan for the residents and the wider community.