The public inquiry into the compulsory purchase of the Donore Avenue and Crumlin (Old County Road) areas continued this morning at City Hall, Dublin, presided over by Mr. E. O’Maille, B.E., Assistant Chief Engineering Inspector.

The cross-examination of Mr. H. G. Simms, Housing Architect to the Corporation, was resumed. In response to Mr. Brian Moran—representing Thomas Joseph Bray, Timothy John Bray, and Dermot Bray, owners of 20 Dolphin’s Barn Street, and Thomas Joseph Bray, owner of 21-22 Dolphin’s Barn Street—Mr. Simms stated that omitting the properties in question would not interfere with the Corporation’s plans but would curtail the scheme.

Mr. Moran: How many flats would have to be removed from the scheme?
Mr. Simms: Four.

Mr. Simms further testified that he was aware Mr. Moran’s clients had submitted plans to the Corporation in February for a proposed building scheme. Approval for the plans, initially granted, was withdrawn a week later.

Mr. Moran: Why was the approval withdrawn?
Mr. Simms: Because it would have interfered with our plans.
Mr. Moran: Were your plans finalized at the time?
Mr. Simms: No, but we had tentative plans.

Too Many Shops

When asked about a proposal to build two shops, Mr. Simms remarked:
“In my opinion, Dublin is already over-supplied with shops. There is no necessity for additional ones.”

He noted that the proposed flats would accommodate approximately 2,500 people and that existing shops in the area were sufficient. He did not consider the addition of further shops advisable. He also stated that Messrs. Bray would be compensated for their properties.

Responding to Mr. Moran, Mr. Simms asserted that the scheme would not be rendered uneconomic by the compensation payments. The site was described as an “in-between” area, not virgin land nor prime city property. He explained that the Corporation paid £200 per acre for virgin sites in Crumlin and £500 per acre for city sites. The flats to be constructed would be four-storey buildings with provisions for open spaces and playgrounds for children.

No Schools Needed

Regarding schools, Mr. Simms argued that additional facilities were unnecessary, as Syng Street School was only a quarter-mile away, and Rialto Schools were within 300 yards of the site.

Boys’ Brigade Recreation Ground

Mr. Simms addressed concerns about the Boys’ Brigade recreation ground, stating that the Corporation had reached an agreement with the Brigade’s trustees. Under the arrangement, the Corporation would lease a small piece of land to the Brigade in exchange for a portion of the Brigade’s ground necessary for the housing scheme. This adjustment would not affect the Brigade’s football pitch. Mr. G. W. Shannon, representing the Brigade’s trustees, confirmed their satisfaction with the adjusted boundaries.

Matter of Urgency

Dr. M. J. Russell, City Medical Officer of Health, described the site as well-suited for working-class housing and emphasized the urgency of securing alternative accommodation to replace insanitary housing. He noted that the area included old cottages unsuitable for modern families and that relocating a dairy premises, while a hardship for some, was necessary for overall improvement.

Objection by Mr. O’Toole

Mr. J. J. Shiel, solicitor for Mr. James O’Toole, a dairy proprietor, objected to the Corporation’s acquisition of his client’s land at the corner of Sundrive Road and Old County Road, Crumlin. He argued there was no connection between acquiring the site and housing development. Mr. O’Toole had always been willing to develop the property in a manner similar to the Corporation’s plans.

In response, Mr. Simms stated that acquiring the site was essential for the scheme. Mr. Shiel countered that his client had already developed 26 houses in the area, which formed part of his estate’s broader development.

Conclusion

The inquiry concluded with Mr. Rice, the Corporation’s Law Agent, thanking Mr. O’Maille for his courtesy and professionalism. Mr. Brian Moran also extended his gratitude on behalf of his clients.