Minutes 2024
Minutes of Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo Held on Monday 14th October 2024 at 10.00 A.M. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, Quay Street, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor Declan Bree
- Councillor Arthur Gibbons
- Councillor Tom Mac Sharry
- Councillor Nessa Cosgrove
- Councillor Fergal Nealon
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
- Ms. Dorothy Clarke, Director of Services.
- Mr. Thomas Kerins, A/ Senior Executive Engineer.
- Mr. Paul O'Rourke, A/ Senior Engineer.
- Mr. Adrian Grandison, Executive Engineer.
- Mr. Brendan Lynch, Senior Engineer.
- Ms. Orla Murrin, Staff Officer
MAYOR:
Mayor, Councillor Tom MacSharry presided.
APOLOGIES:
Councillor Gino O'Boyle
ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE MEETING:
The Mayor welcomed all present to the meeting.
1. MINUTES ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON THE 1ST JULY 2024:
Proposed by Councillor Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor Councillor A. Gibbons
“To confirm the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo held on 1th July 2024”
AND AGREED.
2. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO HELD ON THE 15TH JULY 2024:
Proposed by Councillor Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor Councillor A. Gibbons
“To confirm the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo held on 15thth July 2024”.
AND AGREED.
3. MATTERS ARISING
Councillor D. Bree at our July meeting we were told the Infrastructure Directorate would give an update on the by-laws to prohibit heavy goods vehicles from using the road network on the lower East Ward.
The DoS in response, said that verbal confirmation of the draft proposed by-laws are being considered and prepared for presentation at the first meeting of the appropriate SPC, which could be at the end of the year or early next year.
Councillor D. Bree said that at the last meeting he had pointed out that the members of the council had unanimously voted in favour of a motion, that he had submitted. That draft by-laws be prepared “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 with a permit system to be included to allow local deliveries”. That he had expressed his concern about the delay and to date there has been no indication as to when the draft by-laws will be produced and that these areas are largely residential excluding the retail park. Residents are concerned for pedestrian safety, noise and environment pollution and are concerned that these by-laws be in place prior to the Eastern Bridge being built. He said he is aware that draft by-laws would have to go out for public consultation before any final decision would be made by the council, and that he is aware that some council officials do not consider it appropriate to proceed with by-laws to prohibit heavy goods vehicles in the area. 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 she had replayed the decision from the last meeting to the infrastructure Directorate and that she was told they are under consideration.
Councillor Bree again iterated his concerns at the delay in the proposed draft by-laws being produced and that residents in the area are concerned that their concerns are not being heard.
4. 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 105 applications received for the Borough District received to date, There are 89 initial site inspections carried out, 88 grants approved, and 7 grants rejected. Four withdrawn by the applicant, 94 applications in the urban area, 81 in Sligo City, 25 final inspections completed, and 18 applications paid to date.
Councillor Cosgrove asked what was the reason that there is such a delay between the applications received and final payment. She commented that she was aware that there is an issue around staffing levels.
Mr. Adrian Grandison (Vacant Homes Officer) said that once he completes the inspection, there is a further process to be completed before final payment; he further outlined the steps taken in the process. That it is a two-to-three-month process.
Mayor MacSharry complemented the staff and the executive for being so efficient and effective in the implementation of the scheme. He asked if there is a big uptake on the scheme nationally.
Mr. Adrian Grandison (Vacant Homes Officer) said that there is a big uptake on the scheme and confirmed that Sligo are meeting National levels.
5. MINITURE WORLD PROJECT PRESENTATION FROM MR.SZNZIDER.
Postponed to the next meeting of the MD in November 2024.
6. PATHFINDER SCHEME- CARROROE TO CITY CENTRE ACTIVE TRAVEL SCHEME – PRESENTATION ON THE PROPOSED PROJECT.
Mr Paul O’Rourke gave a presentation on the Pathfinder Scheme outlining the proposed project and outlining the route to be considered under the proposed project. Clarifying and answering any questions by the Councillors on the proposed route and any changes to the flow of traffic and/or infrastructure. Mr O’Rourke went through the key benefits for the proposed project, stating that the project is at phase 3 of the NTA Approvals Process, preliminary design. He stated that it is a significant investment in active travel infostructure in Sligo City and a step towards compliance in Sligo with our climate action targets.
Members broadly welcomed the Pathfinder Scheme and thanked Mr O’Rourke for his presentation.
7. TO INSTALL FOOTPATHS AND CYCLE LANES ALONG THE R292 FROM STRANDHILL TO CULLEENAMORE.
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor N. Cosgrove
AND AGREED.
“That this local Authority calls on the roads Department / Active travel team to install footpaths and cycle lanes along the R292 from Strandhill village to Culleenamore beach and make safe the Junction at the entrance from Culleenamore onto R292”
Councillor Gibbons stated that there has been a problem with funding, however, but with funding under ‘Active Travel’ and that there is a lot of people using this road, and that there is an issue of safety for pedestrians with no footpaths and cycle lanes. The other aspect is the junction coming out of Culleenamore, that it is a safety issue.
Councillor Cosgrove also supported the motion and ask that Active Travel Scheme.
Mr Thomas Kerins said that it is not under the current portfolio of Active Travel Scheme and may potentially be considered under the Outdoor Recreation Scheme. That other locations in Strandhill are included in other roadwork programmes eg Burma Road under Active Travel Portfolio.
Councillor Nealon also supported the motion.
Mr Thomas Kerins also said that the National Speed Limit review will likely reduce the speed limit in the area to 30km in 2025.
8. MOTION 8 & MOTION 10 TAKEN TOGETHER; TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES ON CAIRNS ROAD
Proposed by Councillor F Nealon
Seconded by Councillor N. Cosgrove
AND AGREED.
“That this council provides urgently needed traffic calming measures on Cairns Road and also a much needed pedestrian crossings at the bus stop”
“That Sligo MD engineering staff deal with the following as requested by the Residents of Markievicz Heights. Provide Speed ramps or traffic calming measures at Cairns Road”.
Councillor Nealon spoke about the increased traffic on Cairns Road, due to new housing developments in the area and increased traffic on the stretch of road. He highlighted the optional danger to pedestrians crossing the road, particularly the elderly. He asked for consideration to be given to putting in a pedestrian crossing at the point of the road that cuts across to the ‘short cut’ alleyway to Greenfort. He asked that traffic calming measures and pedestrian crossings be considered.
Councillor MacSharry commented that this has been brought up a number of times and that Mr Thomas Kerins had visited the area on a number of occasions. He agreed with Councillor Nealon that there are a number of new housing developments in the area that is increasing traffic. Councillor MacSharry noted the response to the motion that “There is currently no funding to provide these schemes”. Councillor MacSharry asked that signage or traffic calming measures such as speed cushions be considered in the meantime.
Mr Thomas Kerins said that the main issue is at the junction at Markeivz Heights and that pre planning discussions had taken place on that site in the last twelve months and that if that scheme did come to fruition that road alignment would be addressed, as part of the planning discussions. In the short term, if there was allocation of funds, that in Q1 of next year the input of traffic calming measures such as a speed cushion.
They can be considered for future Roads Programmes, if deemed appropriate. It should be noted that the upcoming Speed Limits Review will reduce the speed limit of Cairns Road (urban section) to 30kM/HR from next year.
Councillor MacSharry, said that speed cushions can be affective, and asked Mr Thomas Kerins to do come back with a costing on putting in a speed cushion for the Councillors to consider.
Mr Thomas Kerins asked that it be noted that speeding is a matter for An Garda Siochana and does not fall within the remit of the Local Authority.
Mr Paul O’Rourke commented on the wider general issue of speeding and traffic management, in Estates and on our local roads. He said the Roads Department are currently at the early stages of formulating a Road Safety Strategy ‘Working Together Group’, that brings stakeholders together, and that the Roads Department are working on a strategy to improve safety. That the Local Authority are responsible for maintaining roads, and that the provision of ramps is the last strategy to be used, under government guidelines. That speed cushions can be a problem for bus routes and that the Road Safety Audit has highlighted that it can cause issues for passengers.
Councillor MacSharry asked Mr Thomas Kerins to get a costing on the speed cushion.
9. REPAIR TO THE FOOTPATHS AND RESURFACE THE ROADS IN MARKIEVICZ HEIGHTS ESTATE.
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor a. Gibbons
AND AGREED.
“That Sligo MD engineering staff deal with the following as requested by the Residents of Markievicz Heights. Repair the footpaths and resurface the roads in the Estate”
Councillor MacSharry welcomed the report that footpath repairs in Markievicz Heights will be carried out under the 2024 Footpath Enhancement Programme. He asked that the resurfacing of the roadways within the estate, be put into future roads programmes.
Councillor MacSharry asked for a costing to be done for consideration by the Councillors.
Councillor Gibbons supported the motion and said that other Estates are also in need of maintenance works, that due to costs increasing nationally it makes it more difficult.
Councillor Nealon also supported the motion.
10. TAKEN TOGETHER WITH MOTION 8.
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED.
“That Sligo MD engineering staff deal with the following as requested by the Residents of Markievicz Heights. Provide Speed ramps or traffic calming measures at Cairns Road”.
11. THAT THE COUNCIL PRIORITIES THE PURCHASE OF LAND AT CAIRNS HILL NEOLITHIC PASSAGE TOMB.
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor N. Cosgrove
AND AGREED.
“That this Council prioritises the purchase of land at Carns Hill Neolithic passage tomb and writes to the Minister of Nature, Heritage and Electoral reform and the Minister of state for the Office of Public works requesting a meeting to discuss this urgent matter”.
Councillor Nealon highlighted the importance of Carins Hill, as a significant part of our bid for the UNESCO World Heritage. Yet the public cannot access the site, that the issue of ownership needs to be looked at, he stated that the one third owner was open to discussing the site and that the other two third owner had previously offered the site for sale.
Councillor Bree also supported the motion and had highlighted the importance of purchasing the site on many previous occasions. That he has a motion on the Plenary Council meeting agenda in this regard. Councillor Bree said that it was disappointing that the OPW and the Department have not managed to purchase enough land in the area to allow access to the site and monument. Apart from its significance as an archaeological site, that the site offers a panoramic view of the town and the bay. That it would be a significant tourist attraction if there was an access path to the monument. Councillor Bree said that the OPW had made attempts to purchase land in the past and that it was important that the executive continue to talk to the OPW.
DoS Clarke clarified that in the context of State ownership it would be the Minister or the Department of HLGH that would purchase the land with the OPW acting on their behalf. Therefore, all our discussions have been with the NMS in DHLGH and they are aware of the significance of the site from an archaeological perspective. There is public access to one of the cairns on Cairns Hill, which is located right beside this second cairn, part of which is now up for sale. DoS Clarke said it is important to note that whether a cairn is in private or public lands, it is still afforded the same protection as a national monument. DoS Clarke acknowledged Councillor Bree’s and Councillor Nealon’s concerns over the lack of public access to this site. DoS Clarke said that last year on foot of Councillor Bree’s motion discussions took place with the Chief Archaeologist in NMS and we are aware that they did explore the possibility of the purchase of this site at that time. However, we have been informed that the Department were not willing to purchase a site where the total ownership of that site could not be guaranteed. DoS Clarke said that unless the situation changes with the ownership and the whole site being made available for sale, it is unlikely that the Department will consider purchasing the site at this time.
12. RESURFACING OF THE ENTRANCE TO HEATHER VIEW ESTATE AND THE PEDESTRIAN WALK
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That Sligo engineering staff would resurface the entrance to Heather view estate along with the pedestrian walk between the two green areas in the interest of Health & Safety”.
Councillor MacSharry said that the engineering staff have been exceptionally good at going out and meeting residents. That the entrance is in very bad condition and that he respectfully asked that work be done on the entrance and the pedestrian lane in the area.
Councillor Bree supported the motion.
Councillor Cosgrove supported the motion and said that she had received photos from the residents pertaining to the condition of the entrance and lane.
Councillor Nealon also supported the motion.
Mr Thomas Kerins asked for clarity on the exact location, so as to get a costing on the works needed.
13. RESTORATION TO THE LADY EIREANN STATUE
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Recognising the fact that Sligo oldest lady “Lady Eireann” which was erected in 1899 to honour the centenary celebrations for the lost Sligo heroes who had fought in the Insurrection of 1798. I am now calling on this local authority to Clean and restore this beautiful monument back to its former glory”.
Councillor Gibbons highlighted the significance of the Statue and is a best loved monument, it also marks the centre of the Borough area. He agreed that it is a very expensive to have it cleaned, he asked if it was possible to get a coating on the statue to reduce the maintenance of the statue. He said that he was willing to put money into the cleaning.
Councillor Bree supported the motion.
Mr Thomas Kerins said that the statue was last cleaned in 2021, and that it was important not to clean it too frequently. However, he noted that over last winter had left the statue in need of cleaning. That a contractor could be brought in to clean it if funds where made available.
Councillor MacSharry supported the motion and said it was a worthy motion.
14. MOTIONS 14, 15 AND 16 WHERE DEFFERED TO THE NEXT MEETING IN COUNCILLOR O’BOYLE’S ABSENCE
17. PROTECTED STRUCTURES ON HIGH STREET.
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor
AND AGREED.
“Noting the fact that a number of structures located in High Street, a designated Architectural Conservation Area (the Courthouse ACA), were demolished by the owner/s following the service of a Dangerous Structures Notice under the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Act 1964; and further recognising the importance of retaining Sligo’s unique streetscape including its traditional shop-fronts and interesting mix of retail, commercial and residential buildings; can the meeting be advised of action being taken by the Council to protect and preserve (a) the three-story stone house, located in Lower Quay Street, Sligo, (Ref: A-29-R.P.S.) and (b) No’s 16 and 17 High Street, (all three structures are included in the Council’s list of Protected Structures) and can the meeting be assured that the Council executive is confident that all three structures are in a safe condition, structurally sound and not endangered.”
Councillor Bree said that Local Authority staff had no other option but to serve notice under the Dangerous Structures Notice, under the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Act 1964 on the owners of No. 9 High Street which resulted in No 9.and adjoining buildings being demolished. Councillor Bree highlighted the unique urban landscape of the City of Sligo and that of Architectural Conservation Area being discussed. Councillor Bree said it was our responsibility to ensure that the unique town scape be maintained into the future. While permitting the modern uses of the streetscape as necessary to maintain the growth and vibrance of the City. Councillor Bree stated that he was concerned for No’s 1 and 2 Lower Quay Street, and No’s 16 and 17 High Street, the properties on Lower Quay Street are on the Council ‘s Protected Structures List. Councillor Bree noted the response received to the motion; “Nos. 1 and 2 Lower Quay Street are on the URDF Call 3 Programme and were Compulsory Acquired by Sligo County Council in November 2023. Roads Section undertook a structural assessment on the exterior of the building and works were carried out to leave the building in a safe condition”. Councillor Bree asked if funding had been sought to ensure that the building will not become endangered. Councillor Bree said the premises at No’s 16 and 17 High Street are also included on the Council’s Protected Structures list. Highlighting its unique structural and historical significance. Councillor Bree noted that the response to the motion, “A Notice under Section 59 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 was served on the owner of these two properties in December 2017. Works were carried out to render the building safe as per recommendations outlined in the conservation report that was prepared. The properties were recently added to the Derelict Sites register and are also on the URDF Call 3 Programme”. Councillor Bree asked if the executive was confident that No’s 16 and 17 are now in a safe condition and not endangered.
Councillor Gibbons supported the motion. Commenting the uniqueness of the urban landscape of Silgo, and the importance of protecting these structures.
Councillor Nealon supported the motion, saying it is about protect, preserve and enhance, and bring life back to the city.
Councillor Cosgrove supported the motion, asking if the buildings at No’s 1 and 2 Lower Quay Street could be retained and included in the Development Plan.
DoS Clarke replied that properties at No’s 1 and 2 are protected structures, an independent structural assessment of the exterior of the building was carried out. The recommended works to make safe the buildings were carried out. In accordance with the terms of the Council compulsory purchase of the properties under the URDF Call 3 Programme the properties must be sold on, for housing purposes. In relation to No’s 16 and 17, works were also carried out to render them safe in line with the conservation report, and more recently included on the Derelict Sites List.
Mr Thomas Kerins said that the roads section had required the owner to install a net on the roof. However, it is not on their list under the Dangerous Structures Notice under the Local Government Sanitary Services Act.
18. FUTURE OPERATION OF SLIGO MUNICIPLE CEMETERY
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED.
“Noting that Sligo Municipal Cemetery has been successfully managed and staffed by employees of the Local Authority for over century; recognising the need to maintain the highest standards into the future; and conscious of the concerns expressed by councillors at the Borough District meeting of September 2023 that there may be attempts to privatise the operation of the cemetery; this meeting requests a full report regarding the future operation of the cemetery.”
Councillor Bree stated that concerns had been raised that Local Authority staff working in the Municipal Cemetery would be replaced by private contractors. Councillor Bree said that a number of sections in the Local Authority had replaced Local Authority staff with private sector employees and that this had not improved the services being provided. Councillor Bree welcomed the report “There are currently no significant changes proposed for cemetery operations at Sligo Cemetery. Council staff will continue to oversee the maintenance and management of all areas of Sligo Cemetery”. Thanking the DoS for the report.
Councillor Gibbons supported the motion and complimented the staff for the level of service that they have done over the years. That it should not be privatised.
Councillor Cosgrove supported the motion and emphasied the importance of the Municipal Cemetery remaining in the ownship of the Council and staffed by Local Authority staff.
Councillor MacSharry also supported the motion.
19. REPORT ON THE PROPOSED T2-T12 ROAD
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED.
“That the meeting be provided with a progress report on the proposed T2-T12 road, linking the junction of Mail Coach Road/Connolly Street with the junction of Burton Street/Pearse Road.”
Councillor Bree stated that he had motions on the proposed link road for 13years and that this link road would link the junction of Mail Coach Road/Connolly Street with the junction of Burton Street/Pearse Road. Councillor Bree requested the executive to put pressure on the Department to provide the funding for this project.
Councillor Gibbons supported the motion and highlighted the length of time it is taking to complete the link road project.
Mr Paul O’Rourke said that the Roads Section have been putting pressure on the Department and NTA to progress the project and that the tender documents have gotten approval. However, the tender documents release had not yet received approval.
Councillor Bree acknowledged that the work done by the Roads section.
Councillor Cosgrove supported the motion.
Councillor MacSharry supported the motion and commented on the length of the time that Councillor Bree had spent highlighting the need for the link road.
20. RESURFACING WORKS AT CROZON PARK
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor N. Cosgrove
AND AGREED.
"That this council resurfaces the roads of Crozon Park as a matter of urgency"
Councillor Nealon stated the need to have the roads at Crozon Park resurfaced as a matter of urgency. Asking that it would be included in the roads programme for next year.
Councillor Cosgrove supported the motion.
Mr Thomas Kerins said that the area would be considered for inclusion in a future roads programme.
21. SLIGO HARBOUR MASTERPLAN AND THE PROVISION OF A WALKWAY/CYCLE LANE
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor N. Cosgrove
AND AGREED.
“We call on this local authority to include in the Sligo Harbour Masterplan provisions for the installation of a walkway / Cycle lane around the foreshore of Cartron Bay/Point, this project is also to incorporate Angling Fishing Piers on both sides of the Estuary to enhance local interest and Tourism”.
Councillor Gibbons stated that the Sligo Harbour Masterplan was very good but that the foreshore referred to the motion, was included in the Development Plan. However, Councillor Gibbons stated that the Development Plan is not a guarantee, that all the works included in it, will be completed and that Active Travel would not encompass the works referred to in the motion. Highlighting the excellent work already done under the Active Travel Plan. Councillor Gibbons said that it was an excellent area for angling and asked that angling jetties put into the area.
Councillor Cosgrove said that she supported the motion and requested that a playground be included in the area development,
DoS Clarke in response stated that the Foreshore is outside the scope of the Harbour Masterplan area but advised that such a project would need to be reflected in the Development Plan and/or Local Area Plan, as it is a sensitive location from an environmental perspective. The development of such a project would take a considerable length and would face many challenges from a planning, environment and natural habitat perspective. Also, significant funding to deliver such a project would have to be identified.
Mr Paul O’Rourke said that when they investigated funding Mud Lane the NTA said that the suggested works were more recreational.
DoS Clarke stated that a lot of preparation work needed to be done and agreed that it would be very beneficial but that the environmental impact would need to be considered due to the area’s environmental sensitivity.
Councillor Gibbons said that he appreciated Special Areas of Conversation and that the project needs to be kept to the forefront.
Councillor MacSharry said that the same was said, when Councillor Gibbons first put forward the motion for the development of Mud Lane and yet it has been completed.
22. HOW MANY CHANGE OF USE PLANNING PERMISSION REQUESTS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED BY SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL TO SHORT TERM LETTING
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED.
"Can Sligo County Council Executive confirm how many change to planning permissions have been applied for and granted for change of use planning permission to short term letting purposes in the Rent Pressure Zone of Sligo Strandhill since the new regulations on short term lettings came into effect on 1st July 2019".
Councillor Cosgrove noted the reply by DoS Clarke that “Eleven such applications have been submitted within the Sligo-Strandhill Rent Pressure Zone since the relevant Planning Regulations came into effect on 1 July 2019. All 11 applications have been approved on a temporary basis (i.e. 3 years)”.
Going on to say that a recent report said that 2-3 of the short term lets nationally are full houses and it is having a severe effect on the availability of housing. That there are only 9 properties to rent in Sligo and 887 short term rentals.
DoS Clarke responded that Councillor Cosgrove is correct that Silgo Strandhill is the only Rent Pressure Zone in Sligo. The planning aspect once they meet the requirements the Executive can not intervene. However, the planning section do make returns to the Department and there are caps on rent increases.
23. HOW MANY VACANT HOMES AND DERELICT HOME GRANTS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED AND HOMEOWNERS WHO RENT THE PROPERTIES RESPONSIBILITIES
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED.
"To confirm with the Vacant Homes Officer how many vacant homes and derelict homes grants have been successfully completed where the house owner has received the grant money since the inception of this scheme? Why are the homeowners that have received this grant for rental purposes have to ask for proof of residency from future tenants? Is there any way that the grant payment can be drawn down in stages? Is there any way that final checks can be done on the house before tenants move in? Does registration with the RTB not suffice?".
Councillor Cosgrove noted the response to the motion that “in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, the tenants of the rented property must be registered with the RTB every year and the property must be occupied for 10 years”. However, how would a landlord know who is eligible to be tenants.
DoS Clarke said that it is a matter for the RTB and not the council. The response to the motion was referring to the criteria of the Vacant Homes Grant. DoS Clarke clarified that the matter lies with the RTB.
Councillor Cosgrove questioned why the grant must be drawdown in stages.
DoS Clarke clarified that it is part of the scheme and is normal grant criteria for government funded schemes are paid; after the works are completed and inspected by the Local Authority, and deemed to have met the appropriate standard before the grant is paid.
Councillor Cosgrove asked if people are registered as landlords can the Vacant Homes Officer do an inspection before tenants move into rental properties.
DoS Clarke clarified that the inspections carried out by the Vacant Homes Officer are done before the grant payment is drawdown by the owner. This is to meet the criteria of the Vacant Homes Scheme and not to meet any RTB criteria. As the Local Authority have no say in what the owner/landlord does with the property after the works are completed outside the clawback criteria set out in the Scheme.
24. THAT THE PARKS DEPARTMENT LEAVE ACCESS TO THE FAIRGREEN OPEN
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED.
"That The Parks Department in Sligo County Council consider opening The Fair Green recreational space in Sligo town on a trial basis to help overcome the obvious fallout from the lack of available recreational facilities in the Crozon/ Caltragh area."
Councillor Cosgrove was delighted with the response to the motion, “The pedestrian access gate to Fairgreen Recreational space was opened to the public on Friday 29 September 2024. It is proposed that the Council continue to trial the outcome whereby the recreational area remains always open to pedestrian users. The main entrance gates can be opened as required”. Councillor Cosgrove asked how to ensure that community groups know that the Fair green continue to be used.
Councillor Nealon supported the motion.
Councillor Gibbons supported the motion; however, he urged caution as previously the area had a history of vandalism when the area is open. Councillor Gibbons agreed that it is a very welcome community space.
Councillor Cosgrove asked how anti-social behaviour be deterred, how long the park be left open, and how it will be advertised to local groups and the community.
DoS Clarke in response said that Councillor Cosgrove’s further queries will be passed onto Mr Michael Condron in Park’s Dept.
25. CORRESPONDENCE
None
26. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Councillor Gibbons asked for further corresondance be sent to Eireann Road Eireann to ask for a definate date when the clean up of the grounds behind the properties at Maugheraboy Estate will take place.
Date for the Draft Budget MD meeting set for the 30th October 2024.
AND AGREED.
The business of the meeting concluded at 12.40 p.m.
Meeting Date 14/10/2024