Minutes 2021
Minutes of Meeting of The Borough District of Sligo held on Monday 19th July 2021 at 10.00 a.m. in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Sligo
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Arthur Gibbons (Mayor)
- Councillor Declan Bree
- Councillor Tom MacSharry
- Councillor Sinéad Maguire
- Councillor Gino O’Boyle
- Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Tom Kilfeather, Acting Chief Executive
- Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services (virtual via MS Teams)
- Emer Concannon, A/Director of Services
- John Moran, A/Director of Services
- Aine Carr, Staff Officer (Meetings Administrator)
- Geraldine Flanagan, Clerical Officer
- Jimmy O’Brien, Acting Head of IS
- Joe Gethin, Cranmore Regeneration (virtual via MS Teams)
MAYOR:
The Mayor, Councillor Arthur Gibbons, presided and welcomed all present to the meeting. The Mayor asked Mr. T. Kilfeather to outline the Covid19 compliance requirements for the meeting.
1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 17TH MAY 2021:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
econded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo held on 17th May 2021”.
2. MATTERS ARISING:
There were no matters arising.
3. GAMING & LOTTERIES ACT 1956-SHORE ROAD/TED NEALON ROAD:
To consider report and submissions received following publication of notice of the Borough District’s intention to commence the process of adopting Part III of the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 in respect of Shore Road, Strandhill, and Ted Nealon Road, Sligo.
Report of J. Moran, A/Director of Services dated 13th July 2021 was circulated which outlined the process to date and included copies of the 33 submissions received following publication of notice of this proposal in the local press in accordance with Part III of the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956.
Councillor D. Bree thanked all those who made submissions under the public consultation process, and felt that the revised proposals to curtail activity to the Shore Road, Strandhill, and Ted Nealon Road, Sligo, addressed many of the concerns previously expressed. He also stated that he has never received a complaint about the two businesses operating currently, and recommended adoption of the resolution.
The proposal was seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle.
Councillor T. MacSharry urged caution in legitimising current gambling entities trading outside the law. He stated that the proposal added value to all the properties on Ted Nealon Road. He added that he did not consider that residents were fully briefed. He mentioned a concern in relation to a legal challenge. He concluded by noting that he would be voting against the proposal.
The Mayor Councillor A. Gibbons felt that there has been some scaremongering on this matter, and that his main concern was to support jobs. He stated that the idea that new casinos would be established in these confined areas is not realistic. He enquired if there had been any other planning applications for new gaming businesses in the past decade, to which Mr. Moran replied that there were none.
A vote was taken on the resolution “to adopt Part III of the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 in respect of Shore Road, Strandhill, and Ted Nealon Road, Sligo
For: Councillor D. Bree, Councillor G. O’Boyle, Councillor A. Gibbons (3)
Against: Councillor T. MacSharry, Councillor R. O’Grady, Councillor S. Maguire (3)
The Mayor advised that he is using his casting vote in favour of the motion. Councillor T. MacSharry queried if this was allowable. Mr. J. Moran advised that this is permissible under Local Government legislation.
The resolution was carried on the casting vote of Councillor A. Gibbons.
4. DEVELOPMENT AT REAR OF RIVER ROAD, CARTRON
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
“That Sligo County Council would provide members with an update on what action Sligo County Council is taking on the development at the rear of River Road, Cartron”.
Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Service reported that on foot of the receipt of a number of complaints, the Enforcement Section have carried out a site inspection which found that a small number of planter beds have been made on lands adjacent to River Road in Cartron. On foot of this inspection, it is not considered that the works constitute works that require planning permission and, accordingly, no further enforcement action was warranted.
Councillor T. MacSharry asked if the ownership of the area could be confirmed by the executive in order to determine if this constituted unauthorised development.
Ms. D. Clarke, Director of Service, confirmed that where the area is in public ownership or if lands have been taken in charge, it is within the control of Sligo County Council.
Councillor T. MacSharry continued that this continues to be a grey area in relation to River Road, Cartron and the residents would like the ownership clarified. Ms. D. Clarke responded that she would reply on this matter by email to Councillor T. MacSharry.
Councillor A. Gibbons stated that he had visited said area and did not understand why the matter of planting by one resident was coming before the council. He stated that the matter could be resolved at Resident’s Association level. Councillor T. MacSharry replied that there had been a complaint from the Residents Association and the this was the reason for the motion. Councillor T. MacSharry suggested that councillors write to the Residents Association informing them of all six councillors for the area.
5. UPDATE ON FOOTPATHS IN TONAPHUBBLE AREA:
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council would provide members with an update on the footpath programme in the Tonaphubble area”.
Councillor MacSharry welcomed the work to date and sought an update.
Ms. Emer Concannon, A/Director of Service confirmed that the works are now complete.
Councillor T. MacSharry concluded that the works were a good collaboration between the council and residents.
The Mayor concurred, having visited the area himself.
6. WORKS IN CARTRON:
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry:
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons:
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council engineering staff undertake the following works in Cartron in the interests of Health & Safety:
- Upgrade of the road markings at the crossing at Classiebawn Drive which is now faded and where children use this every day when crossing a busy road to St. Brendan's School.
- Replace the stop or yield signs in the estate that are practically gone.
- Before the entrance to Seafield Avenue on Mountain Close, put a sign or road markings "Careful, Children at Play" as requested by the residents there.
- Move the 30km speed sign further into the estate near the bus stop as a local survey showed over 80% of residents did not notice the sign”.
A/Director of Services, Ms. Emer Concannon, stated that the Area Engineer will review these proposals for the Cartron Area over the coming weeks and will schedule works as necessary.
Councillor MacSharry welcomed the response.
7. RATHEDMOND ESTATE /ROADS PROGRAMME:
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry:
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council include Rathedmond Estate in the next Roads Programme to deal with the urgent need for road resurfacing and footpath repairs in the Estate”
Councillors O’Boyle and Gibbons also supported the motion.
Acting Director of Service, Ms. Emer Concannon stated the Area Engineer will carry out an inspection of the roads and footpaths in Rathedmond Estate over the coming months. Should it be determined that improvement works are necessary, same can be considered during the preparation of the 3 year Multi-Annual Programme of Works.
Councillor MacSharry thanked Ms. Concannon for her response.
8. LARKHILL ROAD TRAFFIC CALMING:
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council would put speed ramps or traffic calming measures on Larkhill Road to deal with the serious issue of speeding in the area”.
Councillor O’Grady stated that she had representations from residents having difficulty entering and exiting properties in the area.
A/Director of Services, Ms. Emer Concannon, stated that over the coming months the Area Engineer will commission a survey of traffic speeds along the Larkhill Road. The results obtained will be used to determine if traffic calming measures are required at this location. Should traffic calming measures be deemed necessary, the matter will be referred to the Councils Road Design Section for development of design options. Public consultation will be necessary and a source of funding will also have to be identified.
Councillor MacSharry welcomed the report.
9. STREET LIGHTING CLASSIBAWN DRIVE:
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
"That Sligo County Council would provide an additional street light at Classibawn Drive, Cartron Point, between houses 317 and 322 in the interests of Health & Safety.”
A/Director of Services, Ms. Emer Concannon, reported that during a recent meeting with representatives of the Cartron Residents Association a number of priorities were identified including both footpath and public lighting improvements. In terms of the desired footpath improvements, same may be considered during the preparation of the 3 year Multi-Annual Programme of Works. Regarding the request for public lighting upgrades, the Area Engineer will commission a survey of existing lighting levels. The results of this survey will be used to ascertain if lighting upgrades are necessary and if so, these works would also have to be considered in the context of the 3 year Programme and a funding source secured
10. FOOTPATHS IN OAKFIELD PARK/OAKFIELD CRESCENT:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That the Footpaths at Oakfield Park and Oakfield Crescent be reviewed and upgraded where necessary
Councillor O’Grady acknowledged the work of Thomas Kerins, Engineer, residents and resident associations in Oakfield Park.
A/Director of Services, Ms. Emer Concannon, reported that the area engineer will carry out an inspection of the footpaths in Oakfield Estate over the coming months. Should it be determined that improvement works are necessary, same can be considered during the preparation of the 3 year Multi-Annual Programme of Works.
Councillor O’Grady welcomed the report. Councillor MacSharry noted the trees and shrub work of Lucy Brennan. Councillor Gibbons highlighted the active Residents Associations in Sligo and how helpful it is as they alert councillors promptly of issues.
11. RATHEDMOND ROAD FOOTPATHS:
Proposed by Councillor R. O’Grady
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That the Footpaths at Rathedmond Road adjacent to the Industrial Estate be upgraded”
A/Director of Services, Ms. Emer Concannon, reported the area engineer will carry out an inspection of public footpaths along Rathedmond Road over the coming months. Should it be determined that improvement works are necessary, same can be considered during the preparation of the 3 year Multi-Annual Programme of Works.
12. GATE LODGE, DOORLY PARK:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That a progress report be provided in regard to the refurbishment and opening of the Gate Lodge at Doorly Park for tourism and community purposes.”
Councillor Bree requested an update on completion of works and plans for community consultation. He also noted the activity in Doorly Park due to operation of the Rose of Innisfree cruise. He referred to local historian Dr Fiona Gallagher’s assessment of it as an important example of vernacular housing in an industrial seaport. Councillor Bree requested that the necessary action be taken.
A/Director of Services, Mr. John Moran said that a significant portion of the refurbishment works on the Gate Lodge were completed prior to the lockdown of non-essential construction due to COVID-19 restrictions. Following the re-opening of construction, the refurbishment recommenced in July 2021 and it is anticipated that works will be completed in August 2021.
Sligo Tourist Development Association (STDA) secured additional funding under the Rural Development Leader Programme in May 2020 for the internal fit out of the building along with paved external seating areas and works to the boundary wall.
Due to the extended lockdown, construction cost increases and modifications to the scope of works, discussions are currently taking place with the preferred contractor to re-evaluate the project. Subject to tender review and the funding already allocated being adequate, it is hoped works can commence in Q4 2021 with the building operational for the tourist season in 2022.Exhibition display boards, on local history topics will be developed and consultation with Doorly Park Community is planned for Q3 2021.
STDA have been in discussions with Sligo LEADER Partnership CLG (SLPC) who have expressed an interest in operating the Gate Lodge. SLPC are proposing to operate a Social enterprise project to support the tourist and amenity industries.
The meeting adjourned for 5 minutes as there was a breakdown in the Teams link.
Councillor Bree thanked Mr. Moran for his report and looked forward to the opening in 2022. He queried the use of the social enterprise model for operation of the Lodge and requested a response from Sligo Leader on how this would operate. Councillor Maguire while supporting the motion also sought clarity of the social enterprise model. Councillor MacSharry applauded Councillor Bree on his support of the project and concluded that the project has excellent tourism potential. Councillor O’Grady also commended Councillor Bree’s work. While she welcomed Sligo Leader’s involvement, she also would like to receive the report. Joe Gethin explained that the operational model was at a proposal stage and that he would ask Sligo Leader for a response.
13. RESTORATION OF TOWN & BOROUGH COUNCILS:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this Borough District reiterates its call for the restoration of town and borough councils and we further call for a genuine devolution of powers to local government”.
Councillor Bree stated that the Borough Council was the most efficient element of local government and should be at the heart of local government and adequately funded. He calls for the re-instatement of the borough and town councils. Councillor O’Boyle who seconded the motion called for all parties to support. Councillor O’Grady stated that she wholeheartedly supported the motion and the removal of the borough was a retrograde step. Councillor MacSharry also added his full support and stated that there was now less funding available to Resident Associations where boroughs existed before. Councillor Gibbons stated that the Borough had given an additional status that assisted in attracting jobs and industry.
14. CALL FOR FUNDING FOR S3 BUS SERVICE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor R. O’Grady
AND AGREED
“That we request the Minister for the Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, to allocate the necessary funding to the National Transport Authority so as to allow for the introduction of a new S3 bus service in Sligo town.”
Councillor Bree outlined the lack of a bus service to the Maugheraboy area and noted the positive response from the National Transport Authority to the introduction of an S3 bus route. The proposed route would run every 30 mins covering route of Finisklin Road, Maugheraboy, Wine St, Sligo University Hospital, Sligo IT and the MSLETB training centre. He commended the NTA on their work to date. He called on the Minister to allocate the necessary funding.
Councillor O’Grady acknowledged the NTA for its engagement. She urged members to contact their TDs in relation to the matter. She highlighted the lack of services for the areas of Maugheraboy and Oakfield estates where the expense of taxis to hospital appointments can be difficult for pensioners.
Councillor MacSharry agreed with the other members and said the service would be a game changer.
The Mayor supported the motion and was adamant that the entire elected members of Sligo County Council would support the service.
15. HISTORICAL INFO BOARDS/CRANMORE:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this District council of Sligo / Strandhill should plan for the erection of historical information boards at the entrances of the different estates in the Cranmore Area particularly considering the significance of the individuals who have been recognised by Sligo local authority and whose names live on in our everyday lives.”
Acting Director of Services, Mr. John Moran outlined groups/organisations that would need to be consulted prior to undertaking any work on historical information plaques. These include the Council’s Decade of Centenaries Steering Group together with community groups such as the Abbeyquarter Men’s Group, Sligo East City History and Heritage Group. The Cranmore Community Co-op would have a key role in consultation and community engagement on the initiative.
Collaborative actions will need to be identified in partnership with all these community groups/organisations, and a funding source would have to be identified and funding secured for such an initiative to proceed.
16. REQUEST FOR TRAFFIC CALMING GALLOWS HILL/SUMMERHILL:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this District council of Sligo / Strandhill calls on the road department of this local authority to install speed cushions or other forms of traffic calming measures on the upper part of the road known as Gallows-hill upper St Joseph's Terrace and provide a yellow box outside of the entrance into Summerhill village Cul De Sac on the same Road.”
The Mayor highlighted the issue of residents from the cul-de-sac accessing the Road.
A/Director of Service, Ms. Emer Concannon replied that we trust this motion relates to the southern-most part of Gallows Hill as traffic calming interventions are already in place along the northern section of this roadway. The Roads Department are currently developing plans for the provision of a controlled pedestrian crossing adjacent to the junction of Circular Road/Gallows Hill. This will include for a narrowing of the roadway either side of the proposed pedestrian crossing thereby having a traffic calming effect. Monitoring of traffic speeds/volumes will be carried out pre and post works.
17. RECYCLING FACILITES AT SHOWGROUNDS:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council indicate when will full time access to the recycling facilities located at Sligo Show Grounds will recommence as was enjoyed by the wider Maugheraboy Community pre pandemic.”
A/Director of Services, Ms. Emer Concannon, reported that as a result of the pandemic, access to Sligo Showgrounds had been limited and there are times now when the car park has to be closed off for health and safety reasons, for example when there are summer camps taking place. When academy games are taking place, as a result of the restricted numbers allowed to attend, the gates are also locked during the game and are also locked when training is taking place.
However aside from these occasions the main gate at the Showgrounds is generally left open and this entrance can be used for accessing the recycling facilities. Councillor O’Grady stated that Sligo Rovers have always been community champions facilitating such services and the current limitations were understandable. Councillor Bree also supported the motion.
18. CORRESPONDENCE:
Correspondence from Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media regarding query in relation to Sports Capital funding for the Sligo Leitrim Soccer League was noted. Councillor Bree said that he would send a copy of the letter to the Soccer League.
19. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
The Mayor raised the issue of the upkeep of the graves in the Old Cemetery and shared photos of graves. He requested a report by the next meeting. He queried if a scheme could be set up for the upkeep of the cemetery.
A/Chief Executive, Mr. Tom Kilfeather noted that a report had issued two weeks earlier (to the Ordinary meeting). He stated that the executive were continuing to deal with the matter.
Councillor O’Grady complimented the Mayor on raising the issue. She queried the operational arrangements for the cemetery upkeep.
A/Director of Services, Ms. Emer Concannon clarified that there is a private contractor in place alongside the Parks Department. However the Park’s Department does not have the capacity to cut all the landscaped areas. The Parks Department ensure that the work that is contracted out is done correctly.
The Mayor concluded that the setting up a Cemetery Committee may be an option and the issue could be a motion for the next meeting.
The Mayor thanked Members for their co-operation during the meeting.
The business of the meeting concluded at 11.48 a.m.
Meeting Date 19/07/2021