Minutes 2024
Minutes of the Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo Held on Monday 20th May 2024 at 10.00 A.M. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, Quay Street, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Declan Bree (Mayor)
- Councillor Sinead Maguire
- Councillor Tom Mac Sharry
- Councillor Arthur Gibbons
- Councillor Rosaleen O'Grady
- Councillor Gino O'Boyle
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services.
- Mr. Thomas Kerins, Acting Senior Executive Engineer.
- Mr. Adrian Grandison, Vacant Homes Officer.
- Ms. Ruth Hanniffy, Biodiversity Officer.
- Mr. Val Baynes, Senior Executive Engineer.
- Mr. Jude Mannion, Staff Officer.
MAYOR:
Mayor, Declan Bree presided and welcomed all present to the meeting.
1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON 25th MARCH 2024:
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo held on 25th March 2024
2. MATTERS ARISING
Mayor Bree advised that a minor amendment to the minutes was required, to replace the term Union Official with that of Union Member, under Item No. 21.
Also, in respect of Item No. 21, Mayor Bree also wished to have it noted that both he and the other members have received repeated expressions of concern from the public, that due to this staffing issue remaining unresolved, the grass is not being cut and this is upsetting to persons with loved ones buried there. Mayor Bree asked that action on this matter be taken. Director of Services, Ms. Dorothy Clarke replied that this will be bought to the attention of the Parks Department.
3. TO CONSIDER THE SLIGO BAY COASTAL EROSION RISK MANAGEMENT (CFERM) STUDY
Mr. Val Baynes, Senior Executive Engineer delivered a presentation on the coastal erosion study that was undertaken by RPS Consultants. This study covered both Easkey & Strandhill, but the presentation today deals with the Strandhill area only. The study followed the 9 step guidelines as set out by the OPW, and it was to quantify the extent of the issue rather than to prove its existence. Due to hurricanes in the Caribbean being effectively ‘sling shot’ further out into the Atlantic Ocean, the west coast of Ireland will experience greater frequency and intensity of storms in the coming years. The issue is more pronounced to the north of Strandhill village at the wastewater treatment plant and in fact to the south, there is evidence of sand build up or accretion. The projections to the north are for dunes retreat of up to 94 metres by 2100. Wave overtopping at the cannon will increase also. Partial, but significant loss of the caravan park is predicted. two options were arrived at to deal with the issue. The first provides for almost 1000 metres of rock armour, 875 along the wastewater plant and a further 175 at Killaspugbrone. The cost of this would be approximately 7.8 million euros. Assessment of any cost must be considered in the context of Benefit Cost Ratios. Mr Baynes highlighted that there are no fixed assets to the north of the village, so recreational cost benefits are to be factored in, instead. The second option provides for approximately 475 metres of rock armour and also provides for a proposed groyne. Overall cost for this would be approximately 5.6 million euros. The cost benefits figure of 11 million euros is considered against this, and it gives a ratio of 2. The OPW recommend a minimum of 1.5. Therefore, it is the second option that is recommended to be taken forward for a funding application.
The Mayor then opened it up to discussion and questions from the members. Councillor Mac Sharry welcomed the report and proposed its adoption with option 2 being that submitted in respect of funding and when would such an application be made.
Councillor Maguire advised that as a member of the coastal erosion committee in Strandhill, not everyone is in favour of option 2 and asked what other alternatives or a non-engineering nature were considered? Councillor Maguire also said that since the rock armour was put in place to protect the water treatment plant, erosion on the adjoining soft shoreline had increased. Councillor Maguire also asked in flood mitigation measures had been considered.
The Mayor declared that the projected loss of 94 metres was of grave concern and that Councillor Maguire has raised some very valid points, and that the fact this would impact negatively on surfing is very significant given the recent opening of the National Surfing Centre.
Councillor O’Grady felt that there should be a national plan to deal with the issue instead of being left to individual councils to deal with it on a local basis. She agreed that Councillor Maguire had posed very pertinent questions.
Mr. Val Baynes in response to Councillor Mac Sharry advised that the report is already with the OPW as they have to make sure it is in accordance with their technical guidelines, but that he would be hopeful that a further submission would be made by the end of summer, when staffing changes within the OPW have been completed. Mr. Baynes did again caution the members that the costs benefits ratio is not on the basis of any fixed assets.
In response to Councillor Maguire, Mr Baynes advised that it was the conclusion of the consultants that erosion would have taken place in the same manner and to the same degree even in the existing rock armour had not been put in place. As regards the impacts on surfing, Mr. Baynes advised that the consultants were mindful of this, but that the experience has been that the schools tend to operate mainly from the sandy shore to the south. Councillor Maguire replied that this is tide dependant.
Councillor Maguire asked if mitigated flooding (where you direct flooding can go it) was considered. Mr. Baynes said that non engineering solutions were not considered to be a satisfactory to this site-specific location. Mr. Baynes also advised the members that projections arrived in previous studies are now significantly outdated. Other engineering solution such as lateral lengths on rock to trap sand as it drifts were not considered suitable at Strandhill.
Councillor Maguire urged caution on the Council as she felt this report doesn’t address what impact these measures would have in later years. Councillor O’Boyle suggested an information day be organised in Strandhill. Councillor Bree noted that in some instances on the east coast of Ireland, some properties were not saved from coastal erosion as the cost benefit ratio did not allow for it.
Councillor Mac Sharry urged that an application be submitted as soon as possible and formally proposed adopting the report. Councillor Maguire again urged caution and that the scope of the study be broadened to look at alternatives to hard engineering solutions. In response, Director of Services, Ms. Dorothy Clarke advised that we must work within the OPW guidelines in looking at solutions. Councillor Gibbons expressed concern that delaying an application to look at alternatives might jeopardise funding.
Councillor Gibbons seconded approving the report, whilst Councillor Maguire abstained. She said she is pleased that the study was undertaken and was there when Minister O’Donovan approved its funding, but she feels there are alternatives.
4. UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A COUNTY SLIGO BIODIVERSITY PLAN
Ms. Ruth Hanniffy, Biodiversity Officer delivered a report and presentation on the development of the plan. Ms Hanniffy advised that she has been in situ since June 2023 and is working on the development of this plan which is funded by the Heritage Council, the CCMA, NPWS and the Dept of Heritage & Local Government. The plan will run for the period 2024 – 2030 and will be developed in collaboration with the County Sligo Biodiversity Working Group which had its inaugural meeting on May 1st, 2024. She outlined the process and how it will evolve and advised the members that a 6-week public consultation on the pre-draft will commence in the coming weeks and encouraged the members to ensure their constituents to contribute. Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services acknowledged the new focus that the appointment of Ms Hanniffy has bought and acknowledged the contribution of the Heritage Officer, Ms. Siobhan Ryan in carrying the role up to this point.
Councillor Maguire in welcoming the appointment sought clarity on two projects mentioned in the presentation, namely the Raptor Project and Killaspugbrone Dune Conservation. In response, Ms. Hanniffy outlined how the raptor project is being carried out in partnership with Bird Watch Ireland and how a similar project in relation to Barn Owls is being undertaken in County Clare. It seeks to identify the population and along with farmers to conserve numbers and improve breeding success rates. The Killaspugbrone project will be multi annual and will seek to establish what pressures exist presently and through land management will seek to enable better and more appropriate access.
5. UPDATE ON THE CROI CONAITHE TOWNS FUND (VACANT PROPERTY REFURBISHMENT GRANT
Mr. Adrian Grandison took the members through the updated figures (circulated in advance). A total of 86 applications for the Borough District have now been received with 67 approved. The Mayor welcomed the positive figures and Councillor O’Grady thanked Mr. Grandison for the assistance and support he has provided to applicants
6. GREEN AREA IN AVONDALE
Proposed by Councillor G O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council cleanup the green area in Avondale Park, removing trees, bushes and rubbish, and possibly have a look to put a dog bin in place. Also, to enquire if there is any grant available to put in an area for kids to play in”.
Councillor O’Boyle welcomed the report that the Environment Section will continue to monitor the area, having removed a significant quantity of rubbish in recent months. He also asked that the Council write to the owners of the former Cash & Carry bordering the site to ask that they clean up that side. Councillor Gibbons in seconding the motion suggested that the installation of ‘pop-up CCTV’ cameras would send out an appropriate message. Councillor Mac Sharry agreed and stated the evidence from elsewhere supports this. Both the Mayor and Councillor O’Grady felt that the residents should also be supported in the setting up of a Residents Association which would encourage them to take ownership of the area
7. STREAM AT RATHBRAUGHAN PARK
Proposed by Councillor G O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
” That Sligo County Council clean up the stream in Rathbraughan Park”.
Mr. Thomas Kerins advised that this is not the responsibility of Sligo County Council, but rather the onus lies with the riparian landowners. Councillor O’Boyle questioned this and said for a similar motion tabled some years ago, the Council did have a plan. Mr. Kerins said he would seek clarity from his colleagues and agreed with a suggestion from Councillor O’Boyle that there was merit in having the Tidy Towns involved. Councillor O’Boyle asked that it be kept on the agenda.
8. FOOTPATHS AT ST JOHNS HOSPITAL
Proposed by Councillor G O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council repair the footpaths outside St John’s Hospital”
Councillor O’Boyle asked that these be examined as he felt they are not suitable for wheelchair users in particular. Mr. Thomas Kerins in response advised that the location will be surveyed and considered for inclusion in future years Roads Programmes, if deemed appropriate.
9. WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE BUS STOPS
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council ensures that all Bus Stops are wheelchair accessible”.
Councillor O’Boyle in tabling the motion mentioned the new fleet of wheelchair accessible buses that are being rolled out and asked that all of our stops be compatible. He cited the ATU as an example. Councillor Gibbons in supporting the motion suggested that this be bought to the attention to the members of the Disability Consultative Committee of the incoming Council. Mr Thomas Kerins in response advised that the Roads Department will continue to liaise with the National Transport Authority and Bus Eireann in this regard but added that there are some town core locations where it is physically impossible to be compatible due to constraints with door thresholds.
10. JINKS AVENUE TRAFFIC CALMING
Proposed by Councillor G O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council put in a pedestrian crossing and/or traffic calming measures close to Jinks Avenue
Mr. Thomas Kerins in response advised that this location will be considered for the installation of a pedestrian crossing in future years Roads Programmes, but that the delivery will be dependent on the availability of adequate funding streams.
11. RESURFACING WORKS AT HOLBORN HILL
Proposed by Councillor G O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That an update be provided on when the remainder of resurfacing works at Holborn Hill will take place”.
Mr. Thomas Kerins in response advised that these outstanding works will be carried out in the coming months. Councillor O’Boyle thanked Mr Kerins and commended him for the works carried out to date, at for example St. Johns Terrace. Councillor Gibbons in supporting the motion, asked that the area outside the Rendezvous Bar be looked at, but accepted that this would form part of the proposed public realm project. Mr Kerins said this could be considered for routine maintenance.
12. DUNE MANAGEMENT & BOARDWALK, STRANDHILL
Proposed by Councillor S Maguire
Seconded by Councillor G O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That an update be provided on the proposal for a boardwalk in conjunction with the dune management plan in Strandhill”.
Councillor Maguire referred to the earlier presentation by the Biodiversity Officer and in the context of this motion welcomed the possibility of the inclusion of a boardwalk and thanked the Director of Services, Ms. Dorothy Clarke for the response to the motion which mentioned that this could be examined.
13. FOOTPATHS AT AVONDALE
Proposed by Councillor A Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this local authority direct the Roads Department to carry out a full inspection and replace the broken footpaths in Avondale Housing Estate
Councillor Gibbons in tabling the motion did concede that these are not the worst footpaths that he has bought to the Councils’ attention, but that there are some uneven areas that he feels require attention, similar to that in item No.11 tabled by Councillor O’Boyle. In response, Mr. Thomas Kerins advised that the location will be surveyed and considered for inclusion in future roads programmes, if appropriate.
14. SEA VIEW VILLAS HOUSING COMPLEX
Proposed by Councillor A Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D Bree
AND AGREED
“To call on the Local Authority to start the process to have the complete retrofitting and installation of Air-To-Water heating at Sea View Villas Complex
Councillor Gibbons welcomed the report by Mr. Jim Molloy, Director of Services which advised that the Council is developing a provisional list of properties for assessment in the Energy Retrofit Programmes for 2025 & 2026. Councillor Gibbons went on to say that the current storage heating system is very expensive for tenants and does not provide hot water. Councillor O’Boyle enquired as to who would be responsible for that annual service costs of any new system. Mr. Joe Murphy, Senior Executive Officer in attendance advised that it would be the Council that would be appointing a service contractor.
15. ROAD SURFACES AT CARTRON HEIGHTS
Proposed by Councillor A Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
“That this Local Authorities Roads Department carry out road resurfacing and footpath repairs in Cartron Heights
Councillor Gibbons in tabling this motion felt that this area has been neglected and he recalled how the members came together a number of years ago and put Councillors Contribution of €3,000ea towards the matter. He told the members that the residents were aware of this and wished to thank all the members for that. However, it requires attention now again. Mr Thomas Kerins in response advised that the area will be surveyed and considered for inclusion in future years programmes but went on to say most of the discretionary fund block grant is spent on regional roads and so the balance available for estates is often small. He suggested that a similar Councillors Contribution exercise might be the appropriate solution.
16. HGV BY-LAWS
Proposed by Councillor D Bree
Seconded by Councillor G O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To ask when it is expected that the draft bye laws to prohibit Heavy Goods Vehicles from using the road network through the Cranmore Housing Estate, Martin Savage Terrace & Doorly Park Housing Estates and Cleveragh Drive; will be brought before the Council for consideration”.
Councillor Bree in tabling the motion said he felt that this motion is straight forward, specific and direct, but that the response received ignores the question and is unacceptable as the members previously unanimously supported and voted in favour of such a motion. The response prepared by Director of Services, Ms. Emer Concannon stated that the Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets (DMURS) defines these roads as ‘streets that provide access within communities. The Department of Transport Circular 1 RS 01/2024 defines that the default speed limit for urban roads will be 30km/h and that these roads are being designed accordingly. It concluded that it is therefore no considered appropriate to proceed with byelaws to prohibit heavy goods vehicles in this area.
Councillor Bree said that it is a reserved function of the members to consider what is appropriate. His previous motion called for the drafting of such bye laws with a permit system to allow for Heavy Goods deliveries. He stated that the members had been advised previously that the delay in drafting same was due to the Council seeking clarity and legal opinion on certain issues, but that he felt these have now been addressed. Councillor Bree feels that Councillors have been misled and is now insisting that the Council take all necessary steps to bring such draft byelaws before the members at the July meeting. Councillor Mac Sharry agreed with what Councillor Bree had said and advised that the residents in the area have expressed their concerns.
Director of Services, Ms. Dorothy Clarke agreed that the matter had been raised previously but feels that the introduction of the new circular providing for DMURS may have influenced matters. However, she will bring the members concerns back to the Executive.
17. SPEED SURVEY KEAVENEYS LANE
Proposed by Councillor D Bree
Seconded by Councillor T Mac Sharry
AND AGREED
“That the necessary speed survey on Keaveneys Lane, Tonaphubble be carried out at the soonest possible time so as necessary traffic calming measures can be introduced on the road’.
Councillor Bree asked that this motion and that of Councillor Mac Sharry (Item No. 19) be taken together. Councillor Mac Sharry agreed.
Councillor Bree advised members that although there is 30km/h signage on the road, he feels that some drivers are ignoring this and family pets have been killed and he feels it is only a matter of time before there is an accidents concerning persons. Councillor Mac Sharry mentioned the residents petition that was collected locally in relation to the matter and also asked that resurfacing of the road be considered also. Mr. Thomas Kerins in response advised that the Roads Department will carry out a speed survey on Keaveney’s Lane over the coming period and that the results of this will inform the decision as regards to what traffic calming measures are required, if deemed appropriate.
18. PUBLIC SEATING O’CONNELL STREET
Proposed by Councillor D Bree
Seconded by Councillor G O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To ask what progress has been made regarding proposals to provide public seating in O’Connell Street and other appropriate areas/streets in the town centre”.
Councillor Bree in tabling this motion declared that such a provision can greatly enhance quality of life for elderly persons and/or persons with mobility issues when placed in appropriate and strategic locations. Councillor Bree enquired as to an update on the development of a strategy. Mr. Thomas Kerins in response, advised that the Roads Department is currently finalising the detailed design stage for furniture installation (including seating) on O’Connell Street. Consultation with nearby businesses is also ongoing. He added that the roll out maybe on a phased basis, dependent on funding. Councillor Mac Sharry commended the work to date as regards O’Connell Street.
19. SPEED SURVEY AT KEAVENEYS LANE
Proposed by Councillor T Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor D Bree
AND AGREED
“That Sligo Municipal District Engineering Staff would put in traffic calming measures at Keaveneys Lane, Tonaphubble, Sligo as requested by all of the residents from the area in the interests of Health & Safety
See Item No. 17
20. STRANDHILL TRAFFIC PLAN
Proposed by Councillor T Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor A Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Sligo Municipal District Engineering Staff would conduct a traffic plan for the entire village of Strandhill, to deal with urgently needed traffic calming and speed reduction, pedestrian crossing points in the interest of Health & Safety.
Councillor Mac Sharry welcomed the report that stated that under the Active Travel Programme, funding was granted to carry out a Feasibility and Options Assessment for Strandhill Village and that the NTA having examined this report, have committed to funding the first intervention, this being from the Rugby Club to St. Patricks Church
Councillor Mac Sharry said that on the doorsteps of his canvass, this is a very significant issue for all of Strandhill, but that the Top Road in particular is one of concern. Councillor Maguire welcomed the news in particular as regard the road from the Rugby Club to the roundabout as there have been a number of near misses at the roundabout. Both Councillor Gibbons and Councillor O’Grady also referred to the Top Road and Councillor O’Grady said it in one which all members have raised at on occasion.
21. GRASS CUTTING
Proposed by Councillor T Mac Sharry
Seconded by Councillor G O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That Sligo Municipal District would consider a process to employ one contractor to deal with the seasonal grass cutting in all estates within the Borough area”.
Councillor Mac Sharry in tabling this motion advised that it is something that all members have raised in the past, often on an annual basis. He agreed with the value of Residents Associations and the role they can play but feels they must be properly supported and funded. He gave an example of one such Residents Association where one of the committee members has himself personally being making up the shortfall in costs.
Councillor Mac Sharry accepted the report that stated where estates have been taken in charge, the policy does not provide for grass cutting, but that the issue is complicated in locations where the Council itself owns a number of properties in such estates.
Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services, in response added that a new policy for Local Authority Estates is being developed which may involve the participation of residents, and as regards private developments, she reminded members of the grant scheme that operates annually to assist Residents Associations.
In relation to this new policy, Councillor O’Boyle expressed the view that this may take some months to develop, but in the interim he enquired as to what is to be done with 3 new Local Authority Estates, namely.
Knappaghbeg
Seaview
Harbour View
Councillor O’Boyle also referred back to when he raised a similar motion in 2023, where he asked that better public communication be given as to the reasons why grass was not being cut as frequently as previously due to Biodiversity reasons.
Ms. Dorothy Clarke that she would raise the issue of the above 3 new estates with the Housing Directorate.
Councillor O’Grady again referred to the importance of developing Residents Associations to tenants a sense of ownership and empowerment.
Councillor Bree wished to full endorse Councillor O’Grady’s comments and suggested that it become part of the pre-tenancy course. Councillor Maguire wished to add that there is some confusion out there as regards the Councils responsibility when an estate is Taken in Charge. She recently received representations in relation to one such example where the enquirer wished to know when the landscaping would commence. There is therefore Councillor Maguire stated, a belief amongst some of the public that this is the Councils responsibility. She advised therefore that a public information exercise on the matter be organised.
22. CORRESPONDENCE
The members were particularly pleased that a response had finally been received from the National Transport Authority. Councillor Mac Sharry felt that it is the members of this Local Authority that are exerting the pressure on this issue, whereas it should be the Minister. Councillor Bree said the members should be proud of their efforts in lobbying for the extension of the town bus service and did commend the NTA for their previous engagement. He agreed with Councillor Mac Sharry in that the delays lie with the Minister.
23. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
The Mayor referred to the last meeting of the plenary, held on Monday May 12th, and again wished to pay tribute to retiring Councillors Maguire and O’Grady, who he said have served with distinction for 10 and 25 years respectively. He also welcomed members of Councillor Maguires family to the chamber.
Councillor Maguire in her address thanked the staff and her Councillor colleagues and wished the Councillors who are seeking re-election her best wishes. Councillor Maguire also referred to her family and the bedrock of support that they have been. Councillor Maguire referred to her tenure as chair of the LCDC which saw millions of Euros divested to community groups across the County. Councillor Maguire also proudly recalled her role in other initiatives such as the Breast-Feeding Friendly Programme.
Councillor O’Grady spoke of pride of her election as Mayor in 1999 and how her late parents, who meet in City Hall were present to witness that. She also wished to acknowledge the late Mr. John Mc Nabola, Town Clerk and the support he gave to the members.
Both Councillors Maguire & O’Grady spoke of the importance of diversity and balance on the Council and the contribution that female members make.
Ms. Dorothy Clarke, on behalf of the Executive wished both Councillors Maguire & O’Grady her best wishes, and described them both as strong, intelligent and knowledgeable women and who bought a lot to the table. Ms. Clarke also wished the members seeking re-election her best wishes.
In conclusion, Councillor O’Grady wished to acknowledge and compliment Councillor Bree on his successful Mayoralty year. She expressed a wish that the incoming Council would elect him as Cathaoirleach in recognition of his 50 years as an elected representative.
The business of the meeting concluded at 12:55pm.
Meeting Date 20/05/2024