Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) has moved forward with plans to develop a new public viewing facility for aircraft enthusiasts after submitting additional information requested by Fingal County Council regarding its proposal.
The project aims to transform “The Mound” – a long-established but informal plane-spotting location on Old Airport Road that has been popular with aviation enthusiasts for over 40 years – into a purpose-built viewing area with modern amenities.
The free-to-access facility, which would be fully funded by DAA as part of its community engagement initiatives, is designed to provide visitors with clear views of the south runway (10R/28L) and cross-wind runway (16/34) at Dublin Airport.
Following initial planning application submitted last year, DAA has now addressed several queries from the planning authority, including agreements to relocate bicycle parking facilities, details of construction materials, and responses to questions about specific amenities included in the design.
The proposed development would replace the current muddy grass mound and informal parking area with:
- A dedicated car park offering 22 spaces, including accessible and family-designated parking
- Bicycle parking facilities
- An elevated, covered viewing platform with seating
- Full lighting powered by on-site solar panels
Gary McLean, managing director of Dublin Airport, emphasized the cultural significance of the location: “It’s a rite of passage for kids in Dublin to be taken to ‘The Mound’ to watch the planes landing and taking off at the airport. This new facility would make it safer and more enjoyable for users.”
McLean noted that aircraft observation areas are common features at airports worldwide, adding that “the public reaction to our proposal has been incredibly positive and people really want it.”
The project represents DAA’s attempt to formalize and improve what has been an informal plane-spotting tradition for generations of Dubliners, creating what McLean describes as “a facility that the local community will really enjoy” for “decades to come.”