Minutes 2024
Minutes of the Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo Held on Monday 15th July 2024 at 10.00 A.M. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, Quay Street, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Declan Bree
- Councillor Tom MacSharry
- Councillor Arthur Gibbons
- Councillor Gino O'Boyle
- Councillor Nessa Cosgrove
- Councillor Fergal Nealon
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services.
- Mr. Thomas Kerins, A/ Senior Executive Engineer.
- Ms. Sorcha Sheehy, Executive Engineer.
- Mr. Adrian Grandison, Executive Engineer.
- Ms. Orla Murrin, Staff Officer
MAYOR:
Mayor, Councillor Tom MacSharry presided.
APOLOGIES:
None.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE MEETING:
The Mayor welcomed all present to the meeting.
1. MINUTES OF MEETING OF THE BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON THE 20TH OF MAY 2024:
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
“To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo held on 20th May 2024”
AND AGREED.
2. MATTERS ARISING
Councillor D. Bree had tabled a motion at the previous meeting as to when the draft by-laws “as to prohibit heavy goods vehicles form using the road network though the Cranmore housing estate, Martin Savage Terrace and Doorly Park housing estates and Cleveragh Drive will be brought before the Council for consideration”.
Councillor D. Bree said that he asked for the council officials to implement the decision of the elected councillors and to take all necessary steps to have the draft byelaws prepared in advance of today’s meeting. The members of the council had unanimously voted in favour of the motion. Councillor Bree pointed out that the making of the byelaws is a reserved function that is strictly a matter for the elected councillors. Councillor Bree then asked for a date as to when they will be drafted.
The DoS in response, said that while she could not give a definitive date as to when they will be ready as the matter of the bye-laws fell under the Infrastructure directorate but she will however, bring the matter to their attention and will convey the discussion of the members of the MD on the bye-laws. Ms Clarke did indicate that the draft bye-laws may have to considered by the relevant SPC (when established) first as would be standard practice, before it can be considered by the MD. However, the Infrastructure directorate, will be asked to provide an update as to when the byelaws will be ready in the first instance and this will be conveyed back to members.
Councillor Bree emphasised his disappointment at the delay in the draft byelaws being prepared. He accepted the fact highlighted by Ms Clarke that it may have to be presented at the SPC and asked that it be addressed as soon as possible. He added that residents are concerned at the delay in the progressing of draft byelaws.
Councillor O’Boyle asked queried the policy relating to grass cutting and the inclusion of retaining some parts of green areas for wildflowers to grow for biodiversity reasons and asked if the policy could be forwarded to him for the information of some of the Residents Committees. Ms Clarke said that she would revert the matter.
3. UPDATE ON THE CROI CONAITHE TOWNS FUND (VACANT PROPERTY REFURBISHNENT GRANT)
Mr. Adrian Grandison (Vacant Homes Officer) took the members through the updated figures (circulated in advance). Total of 99 applications for the Borough District received to date, 80 initial site inspections carried out, 79 grants approved, and 6 grants rejected. Three withdrawn by the applicant, 93 applications in the urban area, 75 in Sligo City, 15 final inspections completed, and 6 applications paid to date.
Mayor MacSharry complemented the staff and the executive for being so efficient and effective in the implementation of the scheme.
4. UPGRADE TO TOP ROAD IN STRANDHILL AND TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED
“To ask the Road department of this local authority, as to what plans are being put in place to enhance and upgrade the top road in Strandhill village, part of The R292. The lack of continuous footpaths on the Eastern side of the road, lack of Traffic calming, to deal with vehicular speeding, these are major health and safety issues that are of concerns to the local community, and particularly those with young families who reside on the Eastern side of the R292”.
In Reply to the motion ‘Sligo County Council recently carried out some road resurfacing works on the Top Road at its junction with Buenos Aires Drive. SCC will investigate the possibility of installing traffic calming measures on the roadway in 2024.’
Councillor Gibbons said that the reply to the motion does not address the issue for residents on the top road, and that the issue had been highlighted many times. Councillor Gibbons stated that Strandhill village attracts a large number of tourists, and the businesses at the top road are not being served. He acknowledged the works previously done to improve the infrastructure. Councillor Gibbons said there are a large number of young families in the area and that the lack of continuous footpaths and traffic management is a safety issue.
All councillors supported the motion.
5. MOTIONS 5, 6, 9 & 17. TAKEN TOGETHER WITH AGREEMENT OF THE MAYOR & MEMBERS.
Proposed by Councillor O’Boyle, Councillor MacSharry, Councillor Gibbons, Councillor Nealon
Seconded by all Councillor’s.
AND AGREED.
“Can Sligo County Council put in place a speed survey in Jinks Avenue and Treacy avenue with the possibility of speed precautions in both areas”.
“Can Sligo County Council upgrade the footpaths in Tracey Avenue and the footpath through the alleyway”.
“That Sligo MD engineering staff would engage with a delegation of residents from Tracey Avenue in relation to remedial works, the need for traffic calming measures and issues relating to the alleyway to the steps”.
“That this local authority would seek funding for a Remedial Works enhancement Scheme to upgrade the footpaths, lights and Alleyway at Treacy Avenue similar to that carried out at Jinks Avenue and Garvogue Villas.”
Councillor O’Boyle spoke to motion 5 & 6. stating that although there are speed bumps in Jinks Avenue there are a lot of cars parked and drivers cannot see the children and that more signage may be needed. In Treacy Avenue similar problem with speeding in the estate, and that there are several elderly residents in the area. That some works to the footpaths have already been carried out but that there is still some work to be done.
Councillor Gibbons spoke to motion 6 highlighting that parking becomes an issue in the area. That some of the footpaths need refurbishment, and there are further resurfacing works required in the alleyway and ask if the lighting be upgraded in Treacy Avenue. He said that he understood that the roads department has limited funding.
Mayor MacSharry spoke to motion 9, complimenting the residents association in the area, he said that the residents are looking for a delegation to meet with them, with some of the engineers and the councillors.
Councillor Bree supported the motions, highlighting that the footpaths require upgrading but that it is necessary to have the resources to conduct the works.
Councillor Cosgrove said that the engineer staff, Councillor Nealon, and herself had agreed to attend a meeting with the residents today and extended the invitation to attend.
Councillor Nealon also emphasised the need for funding to facilitate the roads department to carry out the works. That the works need to be prioritised.
Councillor O’Boyle asked Mr Thomas Kerins to do a costing of the works.
In reply to motion 9 ‘SCC Roads Department can engage with a delegation of residents from Treacy Avenue to review the issues. Delivery of any such schemes will be dependent on the availability of adequate funding streams’. In reply to motion 17 ‘Delivery of any such schemes will be dependent on the availability of adequate funding streams’.
Mr Thomas Kerins in response asked Councillor O’Boyle to meet at Jinks Avenue to assess the works needed and engage with the residents to see what can be done. Regarding Treacy Avenue, he acknowledged that some of the footpaths are very old and that there are a few hundred meters of footpaths to be refurbished and that the funding last year was approximately €20,000 under the footpaths enhancement programme and this was insufficient to complete all the footpaths. That he was not aware of other funding sources but that he would look at other areas of funding. That costings for the alleyway would be required and that maybe the councillors could get together and action that in the short term after the meeting today. That they could look at the upgrade to the lightning during the meeting in Treacy Avenue.
All councillors supported the motions.
6. MOTION 6 TAKEN PREVIOUSLY, SEE ITEM NO.5.
“Can Sligo County Council upgrade the footpaths in Tracey Avenue and the footpath through the alleyway”.
AND AGREED
7. UPGRADE TO FOOTPATHS AT HAZEL GROVE MAUGHERABOY.
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree.
AND AGREED.
“Can Sligo County Council upgrade the footpaths in Hazel Grove Maugheraboy”.
Councillor O’Boyle stated that an upgrade to the footpaths at Hazle Grove was needed as there are many elderly residents in the area and it is a safety issue. Asked that if the council has any funding that they will prioritise the area.
Mr. Thomas Kerins said that some localised works had been carried out and that it would be considered for future enhancement programmes.
8. STRANDHILL VILLAGE FRAMEWORK PLAN
Proposed by Councillor F Nealon
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED.
“That this Council conducts a Strandhill Village Framework Plan', showcasing how the village plans for the future by appraising its zoning and the village in its current state to recognise how best to create new developments, public amenities, public space, traffic management, character of village.-How do we plan for and use public spaces, what is the village character, how does pedestrian and vehicle traffic flow work.”
Councillor Nealon stated that there is a need to look at the community needs in Strandhill village and how the village would develop overall. He has concerns about the growth of residential areas in Strandhill without proper consideration being given to having the necessary infrastructure in place to deal with any significant increase in population of the village.
Ms Clarke outlined that the draft CDP 2024-2030 which was nearing its final stages, incorporates a Strandhill Village Plan (Chapter 19 in Volume 2, Urban Development). The Village Plan outlines how the growth ambitions for Strandhill can be achieved. Both the current CDP and the provisions outlined in the new draft CDP for Strandhill contain appropriate zoning and development objectives on matters relating to the public realm of the village, including traffic management, open space and public amenities. The Village Plan included in the Draft CDP represents a “framework ” as requested in the motion, providing guidance on the protection of Strandhill’s outstanding natural heritage, built heritage, streetscape, residential and community facilities, transport/circulation, as well as economic development. Any consideration to a more detailed master plan for the village was premature until the Draft CDP was approved and adopted by the Council.
9. MOTION 9 TAKEN PREVIOUSLY, SEE ITEM NO.5.
“That Sligo MD engineering staff would engage with a delegation of residents from Tracey Avenue in relation to remedial works, the need for traffic calming measures and issues relating to the alleyway to the steps”.
AND AGREED.
10. SERVICES TO AYLESBURY PARK
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED.
“That Sligo MD would take in charge the Pumping station that services Aylesbury Park, Sligo”.
Councillor MacSharry asked Mr. Thomas Kerins that the council should write to U.E. about this matter.
In reply to motion 10 ‘Uisce Eireann are defined under current legislation (Section 7 of Water Services (NO. 2) Act 2013 Revised) as the Water Services Authority’.
Mr. Thomas Kerins confirmed that Aylesbury Park has not been taken charge and is under the ownership of the developer.
Councillor Bree said that Emer Concannon (DOS) informed him that contact had been made to U.E. However, Aylesbury Park is not taken in charge.
11. PRELIMINARY DESIGN FOR ENHANCED CONNECTIVITY BETWEEN BRIDGE ROAD (R292) & STRANDHILL VILLAGE
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED.
“That the meeting be provided with a progress report in regard to the provision of footpaths, cycle lanes and traffic calming measures on the R292 and R277 linking Strandhill village with Dorrins Strand estate and the Queen Meave Trail; the report to include details of the preliminary design which was submitted to the National Transport Authority (NTA), and when it is expected that the preliminary design will be approved by the NTA, and when it is expected that the Public Consultation phase of the project will commence.”
In reply to motion 11 ‘SCC is undertaking a preliminary design for enhanced connectivity between the junction with The Bridge Road / R292 and Strandhill Village (RC Church). SCC expects NTA approval within 6 to 8 weeks to proceed to Phase 4 Statutory Processes only. Subject to NTA approval public consultation will be carried out in Q4 2024’.
Councillor Bree welcomed the progress report and pleased that the council expects NTA approval in the next 6 to 8 weeks. Councillor Bree thanked the roads department for their work on progressing the project.
Councillor G. O’Boyle supported the motion.
12. RESTORATION OF THE BOROUGH & TOWN COUNCILS.
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“Aware that the decision by the Fine Gael/Labour government to abolish Sligo Borough Council and all the other Borough and Town Councils was a serious attack on local democracy; and recognising the importance of urban local government and the successful manner in which it delivered services to its citizens over the decades; this Borough District reiterates its call for the restoration of borough and town councils and further calls for a genuine devolution of powers to local government in addition to directly elected Mayors with executive powers.”
Councillor Bree spoke to the motion, stating that the Borough Council was of important historical significance to Sligo’s heritage and a centre of local democracy. That it was an effective and vibrant part of civic society and should be at the heart of local society. The decision to abolish Borough Council and the removal of directly elected mayor was an attack on local democracy. Called for support of the motion.
Councillor Nealon agreed with the motion in principle, however, expressed concern over the ability of the members of the MD to work together in the selection of mayor.
All councillors where in support of the motion.
13. CARPARK AT CARTRON VILLAGE.
Proposed by Councillor N Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“In the interest of Health & Safety that Sligo MD approach the owners of the carpark in Cartron Village regarding improving the condition of the road surface and crumbling wall.”
In reply to motion 13 ‘Cartron Village is a privately owned development and is not under the authority of Sligo County Council’.
Councillor Cosgrove the safety issues around the carpark and the wall, at Cartron Village and acknowledged that it is privately owned carpark.
Councillor O’Boyle, Councillor Gibbons and Councillor Nealon supported the motion.
Mr Thomas Kerrins agreed to assess the condition of the interface of the wall, stating that work to the footpaths and resurfacing works had been carried out. However, any issues within the carpark are the responsibility of the owner and not within SCC jurisdiction.
Mayor MacSharry highlighted the work of the residents and the businesses in improving the carpark.
14. PLAY EQUIPMENT IN SEAVIEW PARK
Proposed by Councillor N Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED.
“That Sligo MD source additional funding to upgrade and replace the play equipment in Seaview Park recreational area.”
Councillor Cosgrove acknowledged the limited funding available to the parks department, queried if there is any additional funding available for the upgrading to the equipment for younger children.
Councillor Gibbons asked that enhancement of the parks as an amenity to the local families. He suggested the possibility of fundraising by the resident’s association, noting that once the facilities are in place, there is no further funding.
The DoS outlined that there are limited levels of funding available for this activity within the Parks Dept and highlighted that there are other grants for community owned park facilities. She would discuss the possibility of funds being available next year with the parks department.
15. SIGNAGE AT SEAVILLE ESTATE.
Proposed by Councillor N Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED.
“That Sligo MD erect a 'Seaville Estate' name sign and 'Children at play' signage at the entrance to Seaville Estate.”
Councillor Cosgrove asked for a sign ‘Seaville Estate’ to the estate to indicate to drivers that there is an estate there. Also, requesting a children at play sign as a priority due to parking at the school during drop off and pick time being a safety issue.
Councillor Gibbons asked for other traffic calming measures within the estate, as well as signage, acknowledging that the estate is still owned by a private developer.
Mr Thomas Kerins said that the estate is still under construction and has not been taken into charge. That the traffic calming in the design is to modern standards and that it can be assessed once the entire development is completed.
16. REPLACEMENT SIGNAGE AT DARTY VIEW
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED.
“That new street name signage be provided at both entrances to Darty view estate Connaughton Rd, and that the entrance to the estate be tidied up, IE hedges cut back.”
In reply to motion 16 ‘SCC Roads Department will assess the requirement for new road signage and maintenance works at the entrance to Dartry View Estate’.
Councillor Gibbons said that the signage at Darty View is worn and needs replacement. As it is no longer visible from the roadway. Requesting that the hedges be cut back so that the signage can be seen.
Councillor O’Boyle in supporting the motion requested additional signage for O’Boyle Park.
Councillor Cosgrove also asked for additional signage at O’Boyle Park.
17. MOTION 17 TAKEN PREVIOUSLY, SEE ITEM NO.5.
“That this local authority would seek funding for a Remedial Works enhancement Scheme to upgrade the footpaths, lights and Alleyway at Treacy Avenue similar to that carried out at Jinks Avenue and Garvogue Villas.”
AND AGREED.
18. ROLE OF MAYOR (for discussion by the members).
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor N. Cosgrove
“That this council considers a fair, open and equitable means of sharing the role of mayor and deputy mayor in forthcoming years . Giving the opportunity to all elected members to share the honour of office”.
Councillor Nealon asked for a new and more inclusive council, asked for an opportunity to for all council members to share in the office of mayor.
Councillor Cosgrove asked for more discussion among the MD members in the decision making around the appointment of the mayor.
19. TIDAL POOL AT STRANDHILL
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
RESOLUTION: ALL IN FAVOUR.
AND AGREED.
“That this council supports the building of a Tidal pool in Strandhill”
Councillor Nealon stressed that the seas around Strandhill are extremely dangerous, and asked that a tidal pool be considered, at the time of rock armour being put in place. Councillor Bree and Councillor Cosgrove supported the motion. It was suggested that it may be necessary for a feasibility study to be undertaken first to ascertain if such a facility could be provided safely in Strandhill. Councillor Gibbons supported the motion and highlighted the danger posed to both adults and children when they ignore the signage prohibiting swimming.
20. PROGRESS REPORT ON PHASE 1 OF PROPOSED REINSTATEMENT OF ACCESS TO GIBRALTAR.
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That the meeting be provided with a progress report relating to Phase 1 of the proposed footpath construction/ reinstatement and provision of access steps at Gibraltar and when it is expected that works will commence on the project”.
In reply to motion 20 ‘The Phase 1 footpath / access enhancement works at Gibraltar are expected to commence by the end of July 2024’.
Councillor Bree welcomed the news that phase 1 of footpath/access enhancement works at Gibraltar are expected to commence shortly. Particularly, after the contractor who won the tender for the works pulled out in March and another contractor who had tendered had to be engaged. Highlighting the complexity of the project, as the area is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Special Protection Area (SPA) and the number of surveys undertaken by the engineering staff of SCC. Thanking Thomas Kerins and Brian Flynn for their work. Councillor Bree agreed that Phase 2 of the project to restore the tidal pool at Gibraltar would incur significant cost. Funding streams will need to be investigated.
All Councillors supported the motion.
21. CORRESPONDENCE
- Correspondence with the Dept of Education – March – SET Funding Model.
22. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Ms Dorothy Clarke mentioned upcoming painting in City Hall for further discussion with the Mayor.
Dates for next meeting, to be agreed at the CPG and to be notified.
AND AGREED.
The business of the meeting concluded at 10.55 a.m.
Meeting Date 15/07/2024