Residents object to proposed location for new children's hospital

It has been established that resident groups in Dublin's south city intend to formally object to a planning application which involves the new National Children's Hospital.

Current plans to build the hospital in the grounds of St. James's Campus is being met with opposition by both resident groups and the New Children's Hospital Alliance.

Those objecting the plans argue that the hospital would be better suited to the Blanchardstown site on the grounds that the development is too large for a congested city area.

Disputing their argument and attempting to placate their concerns, projector director of the National Paediatric Hospital Board, John Pollock, insists that public transport links and medical criteria make the proposed site a suitable location for the development.

While those supporting the project have highlighted the employment opportunities which will present themselves in an area which has a 30% employment rate, those opposing the plans are concerned about traffic levels and effects of construction.

The development, which will combine the three existing children's hospitals, is set to cost €650 million and will provide specialist care.

According to reports, the planning applications is due for submission in the coming weeks.