The Green Party has welcomed the decision by Dublin City Council to refuse Planning Permission for the development of a hotel beside the Cobblestone Pub in Dublin’s Smithfield.Local Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan said:“It's very encouraging to see Dublin City Council recognise the cultural importance of the Cobblestone pub in the refusal of this project. Our city is made better by places to sing, play music, dance and tell our stories- we must protect them.”Green Party MEP Ciarán Cuffe said:“I am pleased with today’s decision. I hope that this decision is not appealed to An Bord Pleanála, as it would no doubt be turned down by the Board. Instead, I hope that the owners of this site come forward with a new Planning Application that will protect the Cobblestone pub and sensitively retain and regenerate the historic buildings on the site.”Local Green Party Councillor Janet Horner said:“This is great news for an important site for the community life of the North Inner City. The cobblestone is a hugely significant music venue but also a place where so many community, charity and informal events have been hosted. It holds a special place in the hearts of the communities of this area and its preservation is important for the future of the city.” ENDSNote: link to Dublin City Council’s planning decision: https://planning.agileapplications.ie/dublincity/application-details/146422