Minutes 2026
Minutes of The Meeting of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District Held on Monday 9th March 2026 at 9.30am in The Spanish Armada Visitor Centre, Grange, Co. Sligo
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
Councillor Marie Casserly
Councillor Donal Gilroy
Councillor Edel McSharry
Councillor Thomas Walsh
Councillor Thomas Healy
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
Mr. Jim Molloy, Director of Service
Mr. Paul O’Rourke, A/Senior Engineer
Ms. Siobhan Gillen, Administrative Officer
Mr. Paul Hampson, Senior Executive Engineer
Mr. Conleth Whelan, Executive Engineer
Mr. Brendan Ferguson, Executive Engineer
Mr. Adrian Grandison, Executive Engineer
Ms. Sarah McNamara, Staff Officer
PRESENT:
Dr. Prannie Rhatigan, Chairperson Spanish Armada Visitor Centre Committee
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Marie Casserly presided and welcomed all present to the first meeting of the Municipal District to be held in the Spanish Armada Visitor Centre in Grange.
Cathaoirleach introduced Dr. Prannie Rhatigan, Chairperson of the Spanish Armada Visitor Centre to the meeting.
Dr. Rhatigan welcomed everyone to the Centre and gave a brief synopsis of the History of the Centre together with details of the artifacts in the centre. She also gave information in relation to the annual festival “Remembering the Armada”.
1.1 MINUTES OF MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO – DRUMCLIFF HELD ON 19TH JANUARY, 2026:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry
AND AGREED
“To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting of the Municipal District of Sligo-Drumcliff held on 19th January, 2026”.
2. DECLARATION OF INTERESTS/CONFLICT OF INTEREST:
Councillor Gilroy noted his interest in land near the bridge in Streedagh though noted no conflict of interest or no financial gain arose.
3. HEADED ITEMS:
3.1 UPDATE REPORT ON THE CROÍ CÓNAITHE TOWNS FUND - VACANT PROPERTY REFURBISHMENT GRANT AND DERELICT SITES REGISTER, ATTACHED AND AVAILABLE ON THE EXTRANET.
Mr. Adrian Grandison, Executive Engineer updated the meeting in regard to the Croí Conaithe Towns Fund as follows:
- 145 applications have been received
- 119 initial inspections have been completed
- 119 grants were approved
- 4 grants were rejected
- 14 applications were withdrawn by the applicant
- 49 Urban Grants
- 85 Rural Grants allocated
- 57 applications have received payment
DERELICT SITES REGISTER UPDATE:
Mr. Grandison informed the meeting that as at 3.3.2026 there are 45 properties currently listed on the DS Register. 30 within the Borough District, 10 within Ballymote Tubbercurry MD and 6 DS within the Sligo Drumcliff MD. During 2025, 13 new properties were added to the register, and 2 properties were removed. 41% of the properties (19 properties) are currently the subject of positive action by the owners.
In response to queries, Mr. Grandison added that a new Over the Shop Grant will be available nationally shortly. A €5,000 grant will be available to Shop Owners for professional fees incurred with this application.
Members thanked Mr. Grandison for his detailed reports. Mr. Grandison left the meeting.
3.2 TO NOTE PUBLICATION OF DECISION – TRAFFIC CALMING SCHEME – N59 BALLISODARE PEDESTRIAN CROSSING ROAD SAFETY IMPROVEMENT SCHEME:
Noted.
3.3 TO CONSIDER SCHEDULE OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT WORKS 2026- INCLUDING DRAFT ROADS, TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMME, MAP AND REPORT TO FOLLOW.
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry
AND AGREED
“that the Schedule of Municipal District Works 2026- including Draft Roads, Transportation and Infrastructure Programme be agreed.”
Members queries a grant allocation of €50,000 for the Tubberbride to Collooney Scheme, Coolbeg road repairs to be re examined.
4 NOTICES OF MOTIONS:
4.1 ROAD MARKINGS BALLISODARE VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To request that the roundabout at the bridge at Ballisodare be repainted and for road markings in that area be repainted also. “
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that the Area Engineer will inspect and assess the roundabout at the bridge on the N59 in terms of road markings. Any items requiring remedial measures or upgrades will be added to the work programme. Members requested that painting at both roundabouts in Ballisodare be assessed.
4.2 ACTIVE TRAVEL FUNDING PROPOSED FOR FOOTPATH AT DRUM ROAD:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE noted that the Active Travel Team will review this proposal for future consideration.
4.3. REQUEST FOR SWIM SHELTERS AT SLIGO BEACHES:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To request swim shelters be installed at suitable locations on Sligo beaches similar to what has been fitted at various beaches in neighbouring counties, to cater for the many swimmers who need such facilities year-round at our beaches. “
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that Sligo County Council, working with funding allocated from Sligo Sport and Recreation Partnership, are scheduled to progress installation of beach shelters at Mullaghmore and Dunmoran in 2026.
Sligo County Council will continue to explore potential future funding opportunities for additional beach shelter installation. Mr. Jim Molloy DOS added that priority of resources must be given to beach access as opposed to shelters at this time.
4.4 CALL ON SCC TO WRITE TO HSE REGARDING BUS SERVICES TO CLIFFONEY COMMUNITY CENTRE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to write to the HSE to reinstate the Wednesday bus services for clients using Cliffoney community centre this is a vital service this would increase the amount of clients coming to the centre and give them the extra day which would be a great benefit to all.”
All members supported the motion and Councillor McSharry agreed to raise this issue at the next meeting of the HSE West and North West Health Forum.
MEMBERS AGREED TO TAKE NOTICE OF MOTIONS 4.5 AND 4.7 TOGETHER.
4.5 PROVISION OF CAR PARKING SPACES IN BALLISODARE VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
“To call on Sligo County Council to provide car parking spaces for the businesses on the main street in Ballisodare as spaces will be lost with pedestrian crossing.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that Sligo County Council acknowledges the concerns raised regarding parking. Other ongoing projects in Ballisodare, being advanced by the Council’s Capital Delivery Team, will seek to address this matter in the broader context of Town Regeneration and the Town Centre First Policy.
AND
4.7 PROVISION OF CAR PARKING SPACES IN BALLISODARE VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
“That this Council welcomes the approval of the new pedestrian crossing on Main Street, Ballisodare, recognising its importance in improving pedestrian safety, particularly for children, older people and those with mobility challenges; however, Council also notes the significant concern expressed by local businesses regarding the loss of approximately five on-street parking spaces arising from the chosen location of the crossing, which are vital to footfall and the viability of rate-paying businesses. While businesses support the crossing in principle, it is essential that its delivery does not adversely impact the local economy, and therefore Council calls on the Executive to outline what measures are in place to mitigate this impact, including the identification and provision of alternative short-stay parking in close proximity to Main Street, and to engage directly with affected businesses to ensure pedestrian safety and economic sustainability are achieved together.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE read the following response from the SRDO - The Council acknowledges the concerns expressed by local businesses regarding the loss of approximately five on street parking spaces at the selected location. Sligo County Council recognises the need to balance pedestrian safety with the economic vitality of Main Street. To this end, the Council’s Capital Delivery Team is progressing other projects in Ballisodare that will consider options for improved short stay parking under Town Regeneration and the Town Centre First Policy. Engagement with affected businesses will continue through these parallel initiatives to ensure that both safety objectives and the needs of the local economy are addressed.
The following amendment to motion 4.5 was Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy:
“To call on Sligo County Council to provide car parking spaces for the businesses on the Main Street in Ballisodare as spaces will be lost with pedestrian crossing AND THAT THESE SPACES BE PROVIDED BEFORE THE PEDESTRIAN CROSSING IS INTRODUCED.”
Following a lengthy discussion, the following items were raised:
- Councillor T. Walsh queried if the €70,000 grant already allocated under the RDF Scheme will be lost.
- Jim Molloy DOS confirmed it is not the role of a Local Authority to provide car parking spaces.
- Paul O’Rourke, A/SE noted in 2017/2018 there was no design of this scheme just a drawing, the scheme is now being managed by the SRDO. Mr. O’Rourke to confirm with the SRDO if the information available in 2017/2018 was forwarded to TII.
- Councillor Healy queried the use of the Dun Maeve site which is vacant.
- Councillor Walsh noted that during the public briefing on this scheme, 4 of the MD Councillors were present, TII confirmed the location of the Pedestrian Crossing at that briefing.
- Councillor McSharry requested a report for the next MD meeting outlining the proposals for additional car parking spaces in Ballisodare.
- Councillor Walsh noted the relocation of bus stops off the main street in Ballisodare would require a safety audit. If this proposal passed the independent safety audit, then only 2 car park spaces would lost.
Following the discussion, Mr. Jim Molloy DOS agreed to write to the SRDO Team noting points above. However, Mr. Molloy added that the funding allocation is for a Pedestrian Crossing, there is no application to purchase land in Ballisodare to facilitate car parking spaces.
4.6 SAFE ROUTERS TO SCHOOL SCHEME – ROSSES POINT:
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That this council requests a detailed written report from the Road Design Office on the current status and future plans for the Safe Routes to School Scheme for Rosses Point.
Can the report please address the following issues:
The provision of a continuous and safe footpath along the road leading from Rosses Point village towards the Oyster Bay residential area, including the section referenced at the following location:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZvLAY3MGqDYiNaw3A
The need for adequate public lighting along this route to ensure safety for school children, pedestrians, and other road users, particularly during darker winter months.
The current stage of the project, including whether it is at feasibility, design, planning, or delivery stage.
Details of what infrastructure is planned, including walking and cycling measures, traffic calming, and safety interventions.
Indicative timelines for each stage of the project, including design completion, funding approval, and construction, where available.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that Active Travel are working on a scheme for Rosses Point. The proposed scheme is from the Yeats Hotel along the top road and down Oyster Bay Road.
The scheme consists of a footpath, pedestrian crossing and public lighting.
The scheme is currently at NTA Phase 2 Concept stage. Active travel will be requesting NTA approval to proceed to Phase 3 in Q2 2026. Active Travel cannot provide indicative timelines for the project until approval is received for Phase 3.
Mr. Hampson added that the site is still an Uisce Eireann site presently.
Councillor D. Gilroy and all the members paid tribute to the late Dearbhla Gill, Principal of S.N. Réalt na Mara, Rosses Point who had worked tirelessly in the local area.
4.8 DELAY IN FUNDING – GRANGE POST PRIMARY SCHOOL:
Proposed by: Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by: Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That this Council seeks the following in relation to Grange Post -Primary School That this Council writes to the Minister of Education seeking an explanation for the delay in releasing funding for the necessary works for the Servery or Canteen at Grange Post Primary School, noting that this project has already been approved and that the delay is adversely affecting the school’s operations.”
4.9 REQUEST FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO FOOTPATH FROM T JUNCTION R290 TOWARDS COLLOONEY TRAIN STATION:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
To call on Sligo County Council to improve existing footpath from TJunction at R290 under bridge towards Collooney Train Station along L2101 and to write to Iarnrod Eireann to seek a meeting with them relative to the urgent need to provide of a safe footpath from local road to station.
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that Active Travel is investigating the potential for a footpath to the Train Station. Councillor Walsh thanked Mr. Hampson for his report and also noted his thanks to Council staff who had carried out improvements in Collooney to date. Members requested that other alternative routes be investigated.
Mr. Paul O’Rourke A/SE informed the meeting that a design route under the railway bridge did not pass a Recent Road Safety Audit. He confirmed that alternative routes are being investigated and negotiations are currently underway with the Bishop of the Diocese. Members thanked Mr. O’Rourke and his team for the works being undertaken to progress this issue and requested that improvement works be undertaken in regard to surface water on the road.
4.10 WALKING ROUTE CLIFFONEY TO MULLAGHMORE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“To ask for Sligo County Council to provide a simple safe walking route from Cliffoney to Mullaghmore along the western side of the road where there is currently a Gravel track that requires more regular maintenance.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that Sligo County Council has no plans to provide a 4km (approx.) walking route between Cliffoney and Mullaghmore at this time. Members requested that Mr. Molloy DOS and Mr. Brendan Ferguson Area Engineer examine this area after the meeting.
4.11 REQUEST FOR MASTER PALN FOR LANGS HILL SITE IN GRANGE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“To ask for Sligo County Council to produce a master plan within six months for what uses will be made of the remainder of the Langs Hill Site Grange owned by Sligo County Council and confirm if any further Housing will take place on the site now that phase 1 is on site and phase 2 in the planning process.
To also assess what community facilities can be facilitated on the site.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE read the following reply submitted by Ms. Emer Concannon, DOS.
The Sligo County Development Plan 2024 – 2030 incorporates a zoning map for Grange Village which clearly shows what uses are considered appropriate for these overall lands. A decision regarding further housing on that portion of the site which is zoned for residential purposes will be considered as part of the process of developing the new Sligo Housing Delivery Action Plan (HDAP) later this year. The housing need in the area will determine this.
Councillor Gilroy noted that the site in question is part zoned for housing purposes. He added that the local Community has other needs which should be recognised. Councillor Casserly informed the meeting that she understands there is no phase III for this development. Mr. Jim Molloy DOS agreed to contact Ms. Emer Concannon DOS in this regard and an update will be available for the next or following MD Meeting.
4.12 REVIEW OF ROAD SAFETY ISSUES – CHAPEL ROAD GRANGE FROM N15 TO GRANARY DRIVE JUNCTION:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To ask Sligo County Council to carry out a review of all road safety issues on Chapel Road Grange from the N15 to Granary Drive Junction and a timeline for carrying out necessary improvements and include when these improvements might be delivered.”
Mr. Paul Hampson, SEE replied that the Area Office carried out improvement works on the L-7204 Chapel Road with Installation of flexi pencil bollards at the school entrance and refreshed all existing Roadmarkings from the N15 junction to beyond the school entrance in 2025.
Any outstanding safety issues should be forwarded to the Municipal District Engineer, who will review these issues and provide a timeline for their resolution where possible.
Members thanked Mr. Hampson for his report and requested that the DOS visit the area in question following the meeting. Mr. Molloy DOS noted that requests for works at every junction on the N15 will result in land acquisition and the process will be too lengthy. Mr. Molloy added that the introduction of double yellow lines do not need public consultation, the Gardaí will need to be consulted.
5. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to the Burns Family, Sooey on the recent death of their brother Christopher (Christy). RIP.”
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr. Michael Gorman on the recent death of his sister Mary. RIP.”
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs. Edel Ryan on the recent death of her mother Eileen. RIP.”
6. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mr. Seamus Connolly on his winning the Co Final Scór Recitation competition held on 7th March, 2026 in Rathcormac.”
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the St. Molaise Gaels GAA Club on their winning the County Final Senior Table Quiz held on 7th March, 2026 in Rathcormac.”
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That a vote of thanks be extended to Mr. and Mrs Johnny Burke on giving near 30 years of restaurant service to the people of Grange and every good wish is also extended to them for the future.
7. CORRESPONDENCE:
Noted.
8. MATTERS ARISING:
Ms. Sarah McNamara, Meeting Administrator to circulate replies on matters arising from January MD Meeting.
9. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
None raised.
10. DATE AND TIME FOR NEXT MD MEETING:
The next meeting of the Municipal District has been fixed for 9.30 am on Monday, 25th May, 2026 in the Council Chamber, Riverside.
Cathaoirleach Marie Casserly thanked the Dr. Prannie Rhatigan and the Spanish Armada Visitor Centre committee for the use of the building for the MD meeting.
The business of the meeting concluded at 11.40 am.
Meeting Date 09/03/2026