Minutes 2024
Minutes of Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo Held on Monday 18th November 2024 at 10.00 A.M. in the Council Chamber, City Hall, Quay Street, Sligo.
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
- Councillor T. MacSharry
- Councillor Declan Bree
- Councillor Arthur Gibbons
MAYOR:
Councillor T. MacSharry presided.
ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE MEETING:
The Mayor welcomed all present to the meeting.
1. CONFIRM MINUTES OF BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO MD MEETING HELD ON THE 14TH OF OCTOBER 2024.
Proposed by Councillor Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor Councillor A. Gibbons
“To confirm the Minutes of the Borough District of Sligo MD meeting held on October 14th 2024”.
AND AGREED.
2. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BOROUGH DISTRICT OF SLIGO BUDGET MEETING HELD ON THE 30TH OF OCTOBER 2024:
Proposed by Councillor Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor Councillor A. Gibbons
“To Confirm the Minutes of the Budget Meeting of the Borough District of Sligo held on October 30th 2024”
AND AGREED.
3. MATTERS ARISING
Councillor Bree stated the following, the report on protected structures we received, and particularly regarding the premises at 16 and 17 High Street., from the Director of Services, advised that works were carried out on the premises in 2017 to render the structure safe. Now, given that seven years have passed, Councillor Bree asked if the executive was confident that 16 and 17 High Street is currently in a safe condition and structurally sound and not in danger. Councillor Bree assumed that they would be getting a response to that question and haven't received one yet. Councillor Bree asked, for our next meeting that they have an indication as to whether it is structurally sound or not or in the same condition.
The Mayor thanked Councillor Bree for his input.
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 107 applications received for the Borough District received to date, there are 98 initial site inspections carried out, 95 grants approved, and 8 grants rejected. Six applications withdrawn by the applicant, 95 applications in the urban area, 82 in Sligo City, 28 final inspections completed, and 13 applications paid to date.
The Mayor thank Mr. Adrain Grandison for his report.
5. MINIATURE WORLD PROJECT – PRESENTATION FROM MR. SZNZIDER
Mr Sznajder introduced his plans on the possibility of setting up a permanent exhibition in Sligo. He suggested the potential location to be considered as the CIE Building, Ballast Quay, Finisklin, Sligo. Stating that the exhibition would bring visitors to Sligo and be of benefit to tourism.
Councillor Cosgrove, Councillor Gibbons and Councillor Nealon submitted questions about the proposed project. A discussion around the proposed project took place.
In response to Mr Sznajder presentation, Mr. Frank Moylan commented that the building suggested for the project was not owned by Sligo County Council. Therefore, Mr. Sznajder would have to deal directly with the owners or find an alternative site.
The Mayor thanked Mr. Sznajder on his presentation and wished him well on his project.
6. UPDATE ON THE PUBLIC REALM ENHANCEMENT PROJECT FOR SHORE FRONT AND SHORE ROAD, STRANDHILL.
Ms Leonora McConville introduced the project and spoke about two projects which Sligo County Council received funding for in 2020 from the Department of Community and Rural Development (DCRD) for Rosses Point and Strandhill, from concept to Part 8 approval. Earlier in 2024 the Part 8 public consultation process for Rosses Point Public Realm Enhancement Project was completed successfully. The focus is now on Part 8 consultation process for the Strandhill Public Relam Enhancement Project. Ms McConville introduced a report on the project at Strandhill to chamber as to current project state.
The presentation which included drawings and details of the public consultation process, were discussed in the report before the chamber. Today’s update was focused on the additional Business Consultation, and the commitment to ongoing consultation with businesses located on the promenade and the Shore Road. In September 2024, the Planning Section commissioned Meehan Tully Associates to survey the businesses in the area and a summary of the views and concerns expressed were detailed in the attached report to the chamber. The feedback contained suggestions that could be incorporated into the detail of the project should funding be secured from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) to move to next stage of the process. Ms Leonora McConville, also spoke about the changes made following the consultations in May 2022, with the options of (a). do nothing, (b). partial pedestrianisation with 20 car spaces on the shorefront and (c) total pedestrianisation of the shorefront area. Going through the resulting feedback from the consultation.
Ms Leonora McConville then discussed the feedback received expressing concerns on the project, and the opposition to full pedestrianisation. Commenting that the 2nd option of part pedestrianisation would be the preferred option of the executive of Sligo County Council. Ms Leonora McConville continued through the proposed design which would have the number of spaces doubled to 42 spaces, 10 of which designated as disabled, a further 10 to be designated for senior citizens, and 2 loading bays at the shorefront. Following feedback received from businesses on the shorefront, requesting short-stay parking facilities for the public, would be considered for incorporation in the detailed design process.
Other concerns were expressed about loading bays which will be incorporated in the design and if the project is greenlighted the potential to carry out construction during the winter months would be facilitated as much as possible. Ms Leonora McConville then opened to questions from the chamber.
Councillor Gibbons posed the question in relation to the consultation processes with the businesses on the shorefront, was there agreement on the project or was it still being discussed and highlighted the importance of the ability of the public to park throughout the year including in the winter months to use the facility in terms of amenities and mental health. Councillor Gibbons expressed a fear that a further reduction in parking would negatively impact employment in the area. Councillor Gibbons posed a question relating to a previous motion which Councillor Gibbons put forward during his tenure as Mayor, regarding an economic business impact assessment that was proposed for this project, and was this assessment carried out in this case. Councillor Gibbons expressed concern that the chamber or executive decision on this project will have a direct impact on persons employed in the area. Councillor Gibbons wanted to express his wishes as a councillor to do what was right for the area in respect to this project.
Councillor Nealon then commented on the consensus that the Strandhill Shorefront area needed to be enhanced, also that the issue is that the community has expanded and there is more footfall in the area. Acknowledging that the increase in carparking spaces is welcomed. Councillor Nealon also asked in relation to a parallel pathway behind the businesses from the main carpark, and believed this would assist the businesses in the area. Councillor Nealon also commented on the increase in the number of spaces in the main carpark.
Councillor Nealon then questioned the movement or removal of the Cannon, Councillor Nealon believes that the cannon should remain in the original location. Councillor Nealon also questioned the position and size of the sculpture at the southern end of the Shorefront and its impact on the flow of traffic and emergency services in the area. Councillor Nealon also requested clarity on the layout of the main car park entrance and exit capacity and how it may impact on the road leading to the Shorefront. Councillor Nealon put in a request, before any works take place looking into the disruption the works will cause and the possibility of reduced rates for businesses affected.
Bree enquired as to the availability of the revised scheme to be inspected.
Councillor Cosgrove wished to express similar concerns and agreement with the points raised by Councillor Nealon. Councillor Cosgrove also expressed concerns over the turning point at the southern end of the Shorefront. Councillor Cosgrove agreed with the inclusion of short-stay parking at the Shorefront and the benefits to businesses. Councillor Cosgrove enquired as to the possibility of the pathway being considered from the main carpark to the Shorefront.
The Mayor, asked the cost of the consultation by Meehan Tully consultants for the survey, and expressed concerns that the survey was less than satisfactory. The Mayor stated that any structural changes to the location will adversely affect the Shorefront, and would lead to businesses operating seasonally rather than all year around. The Mayor then agreed with Councillor Gibbons previous motion, and stated that both had looked for business and economic impact study to be conducted. The Mayor then commented on the feedback in the report, stating that only 7 businesses are mentioned, when in fact there are 15, commenting that these businesses paid in excess of €70,000 in rates to Sligo County Council. The Mayor then went on to comment that these businesses were steadfast in their opposition to the Shorefront proposal.
Ms Leonora McConville thanked the Mayor and the other council members for their input. Ms Leonora McConville addressed the reallocation of carparking facilities from the Shorefront to the main car park. An analysis of carparking changes from pre-covid times to the present-day was carried out and the proposed scheme would result in an increase of 44 car park spaces. The proposed scheme results in a reallocation and increase in car parking spaces not a reduction. Ms Leonora McConville stressed the focus was shifted to disabled and blue badge holders, after public feedback.
Ms Leonora McConville addressed Councillor Gibbons question of consultation with businesses in the area. A survey was not conducted, but rather businesses were asked about their concerns and opinions on the scheme. Ms Leonora McConville expressed that there was a lot of positive feedback with some negative views expressed.
In response to an economic impact survey, Ms Leonora McConville responded by saying that Sligo County Council did not have the remit to examine private businesses accounts, but rather this was an interpretation by Sligo County Council. Ms McConville continued by saying that sitting down and speaking to businesspeople, listening to concerns and incorporating these into the scheme was more beneficial.
In response to the question from Councillor Nealon on the detailed design before the Part 8, that the final detailed design is completed after Part 8. Ms Leonora Mc Conville explained the process from initial concept to the funding from Rural Regeneration Development Fund (RRDF).
Ms Leonora McConville explained that the pathway from the Council car park to the Shore Front was explored in the context of this project but was not considered feasible due to land ownership issues. As such, the pathway was removed from the Shorefront project.
This pathway is an objective of the County Development Plan and must be addressed as part of any planning application on these private lands.
Ms Leonora McConville then answered the question from Councillor Nealon in respect to car parking spaces and confirmed that there would be an increase of 44 spaces, since pre covid times in this area of Strandhill. This includes the main car park and the shore front. Ms Leonora McConville stated that at present there are 88 spaces at the Shorefront, 46 of these will be removed, but there is a net increase of 44 due to the redesign of the main carpark. Ms Leonora McConville also commented that there are 17 blue badge spaces in the main carpark, also enquiries were made about motorcycle parking, a total of six such spaces are proposed in the main Council car park.
Ms Leonora McConville then addressed the re-location of the cannon and commented that this was open to discussion, the design team point of view was an attempt to create focal points along the Shorefront, designers believed the cannon was too close to the public space in that area. Also, if the cannon was to be moved the feasibility would be considered and an opportunity to refurbish and conserve the cannon would also be considered. The removal of the kickstand was also discussed and its current use as a seating area. Ms Leonora McConville stressed that the scheme was about people and the use of space and not cars and obviously the importance of business needs in the area needs also to be considered.
Ms McConville then focused on the turning circle and the sculpture and its traffic implications. The area will be subject to a road safety audit. The feasibility was looked at and is still being considered. Ms Leonora McConville then addressed the question on short-stay parking at the Shorefront. Ms Leonora McConville stated that this idea was mooted recently and hasn’t been fully examined yet and would be incorporated into the details plan or can be brought to the attention of the design team.
Responding to Councillor Bree’s question on the revised scheme drawings and that the drawings were shown to businesses in the area and commented that drawings can be circulated.
Responding to the Mayors question on the cost of the report carried out by Meehan Tully Consultants the costing was not available at this time.
Responding to the enquiry on the entrance and exit situation at the main carpark and its impact on traffic and wished to clarify the impact on the area. Ms Leonora McConville commented that there were traffic management tools to manage traffic moving towards the Shorefront area. Key to the scheme was the enhancement of Shore Road involving the widening of footpaths and the narrowing of the carriageway to encourage patrons to use the 366 spaces in the main Council carpark offshore Road.
Councillor Gibbons reiterated his concerns that this removal of carparking spaces will have a detrimental impact on business in the area, and the impact on employment. Councillor Gibbons reiterated that his proposed motion to carry out a detailed impact assessment be carried out on the effect to businesses, and this was the motion he was putting forward to the floor, and his dissatisfaction with the issue.
Councillor MacSharry seconded the motion.
Mr Frank Moylan commented that it would be unusual to carry out an impact assessment on a project that does not have consent or funding secured to carry out the project. The next stage for this project is to progress through the Part 8 process. If successful, the next stage is to seek funding to carry out the detailed design and construction phases from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) The DRCD requires Part 8 to be in place prior to seeking this Category 1 funding.
The Mayor then stated that with all that has been said, that a motion from Councillor Gibbons was put forward in relation to a survey been undertaken and it was seconded by himself, and asked if the other members present were in agreement, the meeting would continue.
Councillor Bree then commented that for the motion to be agreed upon and Sligo County Council to come up with funding, to have that independent assessment carried out in advance of Part 8 being successful, or seeking funding, in his opinion, was a matter that seemed to be premature, and questioned where the funding would come from. Furthermore, that if businesses concerned wanted to surrender their accounts for examination, that was fine, and it would cast some light on potential impact of the project. Councillor Bree also commented that the fact that the focus should not solely be on the impact to businesses in the area, but also on the local population and the greater community of Sligo, as it is an area that highly emotive and valued.
Councillor Bree agreed that there is a need to go through the consultation process and if at that stage all concerned were in agreement that the Part 8 process is to be commenced, that then an Economic Impact Assessment could be sought. Councillor Bree stated that it should be Councillors, and elected representatives that should be getting documentation before local businesspersons in Strandhill.
Mr Frank Moylan stated that when you enter into a consultative process, you have continuous consultations over a wide time frame and at key stages in the process, in this instance the design had to be tweaked to incorporate feedback from concerned parties, and on foot of this the design may be tweaked again before the Part 8 process, and that the final drawings will be circulated before this occurs.
Councillor Bree responded that he acknowledged that but would have preferred the material before today’s meeting.
Mr Frank Moylan acknowledged this and also stated that at the Part 8 stage, all parties and stakeholders would be given an opportunity to make submissions to Sligo County Council submissions received will be summarised in a Chief Executive’s Report which will be circulated to the Elected Members. This report will conclude with a recommendation to proceed with the development as proposed, to not proceed or to proceed with modifications. If the proposal is approved, this allows the Executive to apply for funding to the DRCD under the RRDF funding stream. Mr Frank Moylan also confirmed that Part 8s go through the Municipal Districts.
The Mayor, pointed out that if the funding was available to hire Meehan Tully consultants then it should be available to carry out a Business Interruption and Economic Impact Study. The Mayor continued to reiterate that the motion proposed by Councillor Gibbons be agreed by the members of the Municipal District, to request that a costing for a full Business Interruption and Economic Impact study be carried out and maps requested by Councillor Bree be made available before the next meeting of the Municipal District.
Councillor Cosgrove asked for clarification on what was being tabled and stated that businesses have a right to be concerned, but that there is more to Strandhill and its community. That constituents had commented on the safety issues on Shore Road.
Councillor O’Boyle spoke to the matter of protocol that both Mayor Mr McSharry and Councillor Gibbons have three (3) motions tabled, was this motion now to be deferred or otherwise treated in a different manner or potentially deferred.
The Mayor asked the general consensus on the matter and agreed to defer the matter to the next meeting.
Councillor Nealon spoke then briefly about the change in ownership of the Hostel along the Shore Road and that the possibility they may be amenable to a future footpath or pedestrian route behind the properties and that this coupled with positive interaction between the owners in the area and the executive on this, it could be viewed in a positive light by the Shorefront business owners. Councillor Nealon then wished to get clarity from the executive on the earlier question on a reduction in rates during this works, and if it could be addressed, he commented on the compromises proposed in the submission and wished to have the short-stay car parking further investigated.
Mr Frank Moylan then spoke on the process, and the need for the Part 8 to be started so the project will be ready for submission for funding through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, expectation that this could be at end of Quarter 4 2024 or early 2025, and he also expressed concerns that it would be remiss of the executive to miss the opportunity to secure the funding because a Part 8 was not in place, for funding in the region of 3 to 5 Million euro, and he expressed that it would be a failing on their behalf if a Part 8 was not ready in time for a funding application. Mr Moylan continued to say that the current consultation for this project has been in the region of three to four years without a Part 8 and considered this to be unusual. Mr Moylan also commented that the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund may not guarantee funding for the project.
Ms Emer Concannon through the chair, commented that for clarification on what Ms Leonora McConville and Mr Frank Moylan had already stated that the Part 8 process is an opportunity and a democratic process for all concerned to voice opinions and to contribute to the project and commented that it would be worrying to take just one parties view into account, rather than the full extent of the citizens into account. Ms Emer Concannon reiterated Mr Frank Moylan’s concerns further that delaying the Part 8 process would jeopardise the securing of funding, thus losing the project altogether, and it was the duty of the executive to point out this to the elected officials.
After further discussion on the matter, it was agreed by resolution of the members to hold a special meeting of the Municipal District in early December 2024 to further discuss the progression to Part 8.
The Mayor then moved onto the deferred motions from the previous meeting.
7. SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL REVIEW THEIR GRASS CUTTING PLANS AT ST. EDWARDS TERRACE
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council review their grass cutting plans on the bank, St Edwards terrace”.
Councillor O’Boyle spoke to the state of the area and vermin in the area. Stating that this matter will have to go on the agenda again in the future, as an ongoing issue.
Councillor Gibbons also spoke to the general Health and Safety issues arising from the overgrown area.
8. SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL DEVELOP A PLAN TO PUT CALISTHENICS BARS INTO PUBLIC PARKS
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council develop a plan to put Calisthenics bars into public parks”.
Councillor O’Boyle discussed the costings submitted by Sligo County Council for replacement equipment, in which Councillor O’Boyle disagreed having received a costing from the Sligo Calisthenics community which is 50% less than Sligo County Council costings. Sligo County Council reported costings of in the region of €50,000, whereas the community have a €7000 to €26,000 depending on installation location.
9. SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL UPDATE ON FUNDING FOR THE CEMETERY GATE LODGE AND PLANS FOR UPGRADING WORKS.
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“To ask for an update on any recent funding drawn down for the cemetery gate lodge and are there any plans to apply for future funding for upgrading works”.
Councillor O’Boyle expressed that it was great to see works being done on the gate lodge, however with funding withdrawal in 2023, €37500, Councillor O’Boyle wanted clarity on whether this down to Sligo County Council not been able to source a person to oversee the works, and the fact that funding of €30,000 has been secured, is there persons available now to take on the works.
Mr Frank Moylan said that a suitably qualified person to supervise the works could not be sourced at that time and that is why the funding was withdrawn in 2023. However, the Heritage Officer was confident that the works will be carried out in 2025.
Councillor O’Boyle reiterated that it was great to see works in the area and expressed the view that the opportunity should be taken to ensure that the area will not fall back into the previous state.
10. SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL PROCEED WITH RESUFACING WORKS ON CLARION ROAD
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That Sligo MD engineering staff would proceed with urgently needed road resurfacing works on Clarion Road as a matter of urgency”.
The Mayor welcomed the report from Ms Emer Concannon. The Mayor asked that the road be included in a future roads resurfacing works.
Councillor O’Boyle then spoke in support of the motion, stating that this was previously a motion that the road was due to be resurfaced and has not been included. Councillor O’Boyle stated that the area has several educational sites and requested that works be completed in the area.
Ms Sorcha Sheehy stated that the Clarion Road has been identified for repairs, and particularly the worst sections, in the coming years, subject to funding.
The Mayor Mr McSharry expressed that hopefully it would be next year.
Councillor Gibbons then spoke about the issue and his discussion recently with Mr Thomas Kerins, in particular the area adjacent to the apartments, at the back of the Clarion Hotel, and the land in the area to help with the possibility of widening the road to facilitate traffic flow.
Ms Sorcha Sheehy commented that the road was in an area designated under Active Travel Plans, and designs are under way.
11. SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL PROCEED WITH THE TAKING IN CHARGE OF BROOKLAWNS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council would start the taking in charge process of Brooklawns housing development in Sligo”.
The Mayor welcomed the report from the executive, and asked for clarification on the taking in charge of the development, as the report stated no application was received from the developer or the majority of homeowners, can one of the groups act above the other in the taking in charge application, in terms of plebiscite to Sligo County Council.
Mr Frank Moylan said that either the developer or the majority of homeowners can apply, but without the request they can not take in charge the estate.
Councillor Gibbons asked if there are any outstanding works to be done by the developer in the area.
Mr Frank Moylan stated that before the estate can be taken in charge, a survey is carried out to ascertain if any works are outstanding.
12. TO RESTORE THE BUS SERVICE IN STRANDHILL PASSING RADHARC NA MARA
Proposed by Councillor T. MacSharry
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED
“That Sligo MD would write to Bus Eireann, Sligo or the NTA to restore the bus service in Strandhill passing Radharc Na Mara as requested by the residents”.
The Mayor proposed a resolution that Sligo Municipal District write to NTA to restore the bus route.
13. CALLS ON THE ROADS DEPARTMENT TO INSTALL FOOTPATHS ON THE SECOND SEA ROAD
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
”That this Municipal Borough Council calls on the Roads department of local authority to install footpaths along the second Sea Road and install a much-needed pedestrian crossing at the junction of the second Sea Road / R292 Strandhill Road”.
Councillor Gibbons acknowledged that the issue had been raised in the past. Councillor Gibbons highlighted the main issue of footpath and the lack there of, and that with the increase in population with the new housing developments, creche in the area, that this is a matter of public safety. Also, Councillor Gibbons enquired about the possibility of a pedestrian crossing on the R292 /Strand Hill Road, and the reasons again for safe access for school children and public in the area, and he expressed that it is a priority for the area.
Councillor O’Boyle also spoke in support of the motion and reiterated the need for this potential works to take place.
Councillor Cosgrove also lent support to the motion and raised the possibility of having traffic lights in the area, that it has been brought to the attention of Councillor Cosgrove of the marked increase in vehicle speed in the 2nd Sea Road, and with the increase of residential development in the area, that consideration to traffic lights been added to the top of the 2nd Sea Road.
Councillor Nealon supported the motion also and as a resident in the area, because of traffic volume in the Knappagh Road and traffic congestion, the volume of traffic has increased on the 2nd Sea Road. Councillor Nealon commented that the BOLT bikes in the area of Woodville Court that the footpaths are restricted particularly for wheelchair access, and also asked for this to be addressed.
14. CALLS ON THE ROADS DEPARTMENT TO REPAIR FOOTPATHS AT CEDAR DRIVE
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor T. MacSharry
AND AGREED
“That this Municipal Borough Council calls on the Roads department of local authority to carry out footpath repairs in Cedar Drive as part of the 2025 programme of works”.
Councillor Gibbons spoke on the issue of repairs to footpaths, in the Cedar Drive area, both Councillor Gibbons and Councillor MacSharry offered funding from their own allocations to assist with funding the works.
15. RESURFACING WORKS TO FOOTPATHS AT ARD NA MARA & CLASSIBAWN DRIVE.
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To add resurfacing of the footpaths of Ard na Mara and Classibawn Drive to the list of footpath works for 2025."
Councillor Cosgrove stated as a result of the upgrade works in Sea View Drive, the footpaths in the Cartron area are in need of works, to the point they are dangerous, and are a priority for the area in 2025.
Councillor O’Boyle lent his support to the motion.
Councillor Gibbons, speaking as a resident of Cartron area, commented that there are areas in the locality that need urgent repair beyond just re surfacing, and that its unsightly and dangerous, and requested that more funding needs to be invested in this area, and that regular upgrading works should be in the programme for works next year and yearly going forward.
16. MOTIONS 16 & 21 TAKEN TOGETHER WITH AGREEMENT OF THE MAYOR & MEMBERS. TO REROUTE THE LOCAL LINK BUSES FROM KNAPPAGH ROAD TO SLIGO BUS STATION.
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor F. Nealon
AND AGREED
“To reroute the local link bused that stop at the Knappagh Road bus stop to Sligo Bus Station. This will reduce the amount of people waiting for a bus on the narrow footpath from 1-4 Cappagh Road”.
Councillor Cosgrove stated that residents of No. 1-4 Knapagh Road had brought up the issue of up to 40 people waiting for buses and passengers sitting on windowsills. Councillor Cosgrove wished to enquire if the aforementioned could be rerouted into the bus station and the matter raised with the provider.
Ms Sorcha Sheehy replied that the issue could be raised with the provider.
Councillor O’Boyle spoke on the motion to reroute the buses from Knappagh Road and the possible provision of extra bins in the area, to deal with the extra litter.
17. TO SUPPORT THE STREET FEAST INITIATIVE
Proposed by Councillor N. Cosgrove
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“To support the Street Feast initiative by working with community groups and other relevant stakeholders in hosting a Street Fest on the weekend of 24-25th May in Queen Maeve’s Square”.
Councillor Cosgrove enquired about providing support to PPN from Sligo County Council on the initiative.
Councillor O’Boyle supported the motion.
18. TO HAVE TWO BUS EIREANN STOP SIGNS WITH TIMETABLES INSTALLED ON THE S2 ROUTE
Proposed by Councillor A. Gibbons
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this local authority calls on Bus Eireann or other relevant authorities to have Two Bus Eireann Bus Stops Signs with timetables installed on the S2 route at Buenos Ayres Drive and Kilbrone in Strandhill”.
Councillor Gibbons stated that the lack of bus stop signage and timetables have first been brought to the attention of Bus Eireann by the then sitting MEP Mr Chris McManus, and wished to raise this motion requesting Bus Eireann update the signage.
Councillor Nealon supported the motion and that all routes in the Strandhill area need to be investigated.
19. THAT SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL GIVE AN UPDATE ON EXTENSION WORKS IN SLIGO CEMETERY
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor D. Bree
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council give an update on extension works in Sligo Cemetery”.
Councillor O’Boyle was glad works will be completed by end of 2024, but however what happens when that reaches capacity, which it seems to be reaching quickly and secondly is there a possibility that a pedestrian crossing in the vicinity of the cemetery.
Ms Sorcha Sheehy responded that the area is within the Active Travel Scheme in the locality and a pedestrian crossing is being considered.
Ms Emer Concanon responded to the Cemetery question, that the current expansion of the Cemetery is controlled by current funding available. However, the long-term solution to a new Cemetery location has not been considered at this point and is a long-term project.
Councillor O’Boyle suggested that this issue should be considered sooner rather than later, due to the numbers going into the Cemetery currently.
20. THAT SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL GIVE AN UPDATE ON DOGS COLLECTED BY THE DOG WARDEN & NUMBERS REHOUSED
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Withdrew by Councillor G. O’Boyle
“Sligo County Council gives an update on how many dogs were sent/collected by the dog warden and how many were rehoused, also how many were put to sleep in 2024”.
21. MOTION 21 TAKEN WITH MOTION 16. TO CONTACT NTA REGARDING BUS STOP AT KNAPPAGH ROAD
Proposed by Councillor G. O’Boyle
Seconded by Councillor A. Gibbons
AND AGREED
“Sligo County Council contacts the NTA regarding the bus stop outside Knappagh Road and ask to be moved due to ongoing issues”.
22. THAT SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL REQUEST A ROAD SAFETY ASSESSMENT AT JUNCTION WHERE KEVINSFORT HEATH WEST MEETS RODGER EAMES ROAD.
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That this council requests a road safety assessment at junction where Kevinsfort Heath (West) meets Rodger Eames Road”.
Councillor Nealon spoke about the roads in the area and the need for a Road Safety Assessment.
Councillor Cosgrove supported the motion.
23. THAT SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL MAKE AN APPLICATION FOR GRANT AID UNDER THE OUTDOOR RECREATION INFRASTRUCTURE SCHEME 2024/2025 TO ASSIST IN THE PREPARTION OF A DETAILED DESIGN FOR THE REFURBISHMENT OF THE TIDAL SWIMMING POOL AT GIBRALTAR
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That the Council make application for grant aid under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme 2024/2025 (Project Development Measure: Development Costs Strategic Large-Scale Projects) for financial assistance to enable the Council to prepare necessary ecological surveys, Natura Impact Statement and preparation of a detailed design for the refurbishment of the tidal swimming pool at Gibraltar.”
Councillor Bree wished to thank Sligo County Council staff involved with the first phase of the refurbishment works at Gibraltar Point, the development is welcomed by locals and is used daily. Councillor Bree also wished to thank Sligo Tidy Towns, and the Ecologists from Jennings O’Donovan, and Gerald Love Contractors, that they were instrumental in the project Phase 1 success. Councillor Bree stated that Phase 2 of the project will cause challenges, due the special conservation areas in the locality and a special protection area. So, in this context, Sligo County Council will require a Nature Impact Statement, which describes the work in detail, identifying all possible implications for the site and sets out mitigation measures to offset all such implications. Sligo County Council engineering staff will have to prepare a project brief with detailed design drawings, construction methods and statements etc. Sligo County Council will have to ensure that an Environmental Consultant be engaged to provide advisory services and will be costly. Councillor Bree suggests that this project will qualify for grant aid funding under the Outdoor Recreation and Infrastructure scheme 2024 /2025, which has been recently advertised by the Department of Rural and Community Development. Councillor Bree stated that the community Groups of Sligo Tidy Towns and Aylesbury Park Residents Association are supportive of this initiative in terms of expressions of interest.
Councillor O’Boyle supported the motion and stated that council should be thanked for the project to date, and reiterated Councillor Bree sentiments and that the project should be supported and advanced to Phase 2, that it will be of great benefit as a local attraction.
Councillor Gibbons, spoke then in relation to the motion and thanked all involved the project to date, and should be kept on the agenda.
Councillor Cosgrove also wished to thank all involved in the project and supported the motion also.
The Mayor supported the motion, and Councillor Bree’s work to highlight and support of the initiative, and also extended his gratitude to Sligo County Council staff involved in the project to date.
24. THAT SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL CONSIDER THE DEVELOPMENT OF A PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO THE LIBRARY FROM CONNAUGHTON ROAD CARPARK
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“That the Council consider the possibility of developing a pedestrian access to the library from the lower car park on Connaughton Road”.
Councillor Bree stated that it was brought to his attention that elderly people and people with limited mobility who use the library facilities and traditionally parked in Stephens Street car park are now forced to use carparks located on lower Conaughton Road, now have to walk a considerable distance to use the library facilities. In this context Councillor Bree is requested to consider the lower Connaughton Road carpark be reopened with a pedestrian access to be provided to access the library grounds. Councillor Bree is cognisant that this will require consultation with the owner of the land between the two locations, and possibly a difficulty in determining who owns the land.
Councillor Bree also commented that the Director of Service has considered the possibility of developing a pedestrian access as part of the URDS City Campus Project, and welcomes this, and recognises that the plan is at land acquisition and master planning stage. However, Councillor Bree commented that a temporary agreement could be reached with the owner of the land, and in the intervening period be of benefit to library patrons and asked that this be considered by the executive.
25. REQUEST A REPORT ON THE MEASURES TAKEN BY THE COUNCIL TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS AT SUMMERHILL ROUNDABOUT
Proposed by Councillor D. Bree
Seconded by Councillor G. O’Boyle
AND AGREED
“Noting with concern the number of motor vehicle accidents which have occurred at the Summerhill roundabout this meeting requests an up-to-date report on the measures the Council is taking to address the matter.”
Councillor Bree put forward the motion, due to the incident of the truck that crashed at Summerhill Round about and through the wall of the Nazareth House Village property. Debris from the collision went into the grounds and dwelling houses contained in the village. It was fortunate no residents were injured as a result. Councillor Bree stated that this is the fourth such incident in recent years, and residents of Nazareth Village expressed concerns, and it is fortunate that none one has been killed. Councillor Bree is aware that Sligo County Council engineering staff have been in contact with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), seeking to have this issue addressed. The TII are responsible for safety on national roads, and Councillor Bree stated that this issue has not been resolved. This roundabout has been the scene of numerous traffic incidents. Councillor Bree questioned whether it a design issue or a speed limit issue, and Councillor Bree requested that either the Director of Service or the Executive, to raise the issues with the Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).
Councillor O’Boyle supported the motion, stating that speeding in the area is a concern.
26. REQUEST A SPEED SURVEY AT FARMHILL ROAD.
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor N. Cosgrove
AND AGREED
“That this council requests a speed survey along Farmhill road (where it meets Clara court and Brook grove). Noting reports Councillors have received of speeding to make lights at Strandhill road”.
Councillor Nealon stated the need for a speed survey in the area.
Councillor Cosgrove in support of the motion commented on the increase in numbers of new residents in the area.
27. INSTALLATION OF BUS SHELTERS AT CIRCULAR ROAD, SECOND SEA ROAD & DORRIN STRAND ESTATE
Proposed by Councillor F. Nealon
Seconded by Councillor N. Cosgrove
AND AGREED
“That this Council requests the installation of bus shelters at Circular Rd., Second Sea road and outside Dorrins Strand estate”.
Councillor Nealon highlighted the high volume of people in these areas wishing to use public transport, and that the areas would benefit from the installation of bus shelters.
Councillor Cosgrove wished to include the Scarden area and highlighted the lack of bus timetables.
The Mayor asked the executive why some bus stops/shelters are erected more quickly than others.
Ms Emer Concannon spoke to the question and stated that the National Transport Authority Standards must be adhered to at each bus stop/shelter, and this can be the reason why some take longer to erect.
28. CORRESPONDANCE
None. It was agreed that a further letter would be issued to Iarnród Eireann in relation to a motion submitted by Councillor Gibbons at the previous meeting.
29. DATE AND VENUE OF NEXT MEETING.
Monday 20th of January 2025.
30. ANY OTHER BUSINESS.
None.
The business of the meeting concluded at 12.36 am.
Meeting Date 18/11/2024