Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing in response to the public consultation on Proposed Variation No. 9 of the Dublin City Development Plan 2022–2028, which proposes to rezone lands within the Dublin Industrial Estate and surrounding areas from Z6 – Employment/Enterprise to Z14 – Strategic Development and Regeneration Areas (SDRA 18).

I am making this submission on behalf of Martin Packaging, a second-generation, family-owned business that has been operating in the Dublin Industrial Estate since 1981, having first been established in 1978. Our company currently employs 25 local residents, many of whom have worked with us for decades. We are proud to have contributed to the economic and social fabric of the Glasnevin area for over forty years.

Concerns Regarding the Proposed Rezoning

While we understand and respect the City Council’s long-term vision for regeneration and redevelopment, we are deeply concerned that insufficient consideration has been given to the existing businesses and landowners who form the backbone of the Dublin Industrial Estate today.

As a small-to-medium enterprise, our operations depend on the availability of suitable industrial premises. Unfortunately, industrial units of comparable scale are no longer being built in this area, and there are no viable alternative locations currently available that could accommodate our operations without significant disruption.

At present, we are not in a position to relocate, either logistically or financially. Any move of this nature would require substantial financial support from Dublin City Council and/or national government to ensure continuity of employment and business operations.

Lack of Engagement and Support

To date, there appears to have been no direct engagement or structured consultation with affected business owners to discuss the practical implications of this proposed rezoning. This lack of clarity and dialogue has caused significant uncertainty and stress for local employers and employees alike.

We respectfully submit that no rezoning of the Dublin Industrial Estate should proceed until:

A comprehensive relocation and support strategy for existing businesses is developed and communicated.
Adequate industrial alternatives are planned and zoned to accommodate displaced enterprises; and
Genuine engagement and consultation take place with current landowners and business operators to ensure that local employment and economic stability are protected.

Conclusion

Martin Packaging is, in principle, open to constructive discussion about future redevelopment of the area and to exploring potential relocation options in the long term. However, this would only be financially viable with clear, tangible support from Dublin City Council or relevant government departments—including assistance in identifying suitable alternative premises and funding mechanisms to cover relocation and setup costs.

The absence of communication, planning, or financial support mechanisms for affected businesses is causing significant uncertainty and stress for owners and employees alike. We strongly believe that no rezoning or redevelopment of Dublin Industrial Estate should proceed until a fair, transparent, and well-supported transition framework is put in place for existing enterprises.

We thank you for considering our submission and would welcome the opportunity to discuss our position in more detail as the process continues.

Kind regards,

_______________________________

Richie Martin

Martin Packaging

Proposed Variation No. 9 - Broombridge-Hamilton Masterplan - Submissions

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