Dublin Family Left Homeless After Timber Cabin Demolition Over Planning Rules
A Dublin family faces homelessness after their timber cabin was demolished due to planning violations
Dublin, Ireland, Homelessness, Planning Rules, Timber Cabin, Brendan McDonagh
Dublin: A family is in a tough spot after losing their home. Brendan McDonagh, a dad of two, shared how they’ve been through a lot lately. They had to tear down their timber cabin on family land in south Dublin because it didn’t meet planning rules.
Brendan built the two-bedroom cabin back in 2017, but the local council said it wasn’t up to code. He fought hard to keep it, but after a long legal battle, the council decided it had to go. This whole mess has been dragging on since 2019, and it’s been really stressful for him and his family.
In court, the council’s lawyer mentioned that Brendan had one last chance to take the cabin down. Over the weekend, it was finally dismantled. The judge asked about the costs involved, which started at €2,000 but had ballooned to over €5,000 due to delays.
Brendan, supported by his wife Ewelina, explained how hard things have been. They’re now homeless and struggling to find a new place. He even had to quit his welding job of 30 years to focus on this situation. It’s been a real challenge, especially with kids aged six and nine to think about.
The judge acknowledged Brendan’s efforts and reduced the costs, giving him a year to pay. He also encouraged Brendan to return to court if he faced any more difficulties. The case will be revisited next January, but for now, the family is just trying to get back on their feet.