A proposal by Niall Mellon's Knockrabo Developments to build over 360 units at the former Bank of Ireland sports ground in Goatstown, Dublin 14 has been appealed to An Bord Pleanála.

The planning board has received six appeals, including one from former finance minister Richie Ryan, who lives at nearby Ardilea and another from Ardilea Residents Association.

The proposal is for 369 apartments and townhouses laid out in eight blocks ranging from two to 12 storeys.

The development includes a crèche and fitness facility.

Among the concerns of locals is that the high rise blocks would dominate the neighbourhood and visually impair the landscape, and that the scheme would be premature pending the determination of a reservation for the St Helen's link road across Knockrabo.

Other issues cited were that the the proposed crèche entrance would cause a safety issue and that the increased traffic would exacerbate existing tail backs.

Some of the appeals requested an oral hearing.

Another proposed scheme by O'Malley Construction for a 159-unit residential development on another part of the site is also before An Bord Pleanála.