Minutes 2026
Minutes of The Meeting of Sligo-Drumcliff Municipal District Held on Monday 25th May 2026 at 9.30am in The Council Chamber, County Hall, Riverside, Co. Sligo
COUNCILLORS PRESENT:
Councillor Marie Casserly
Councillor Donal Gilroy
Councillor Edel McSharry
Councillor Thomas Walsh
Councillor Thomas Healy
OFFICIALS IN ATTENDANCE:
Ms. Emer Concannon, Director of Service.
Mr. Paul O’Rourke, A/Senior Engineer
Mr. Paul Hampson, Senior Executive Engineer
Mr. Conleth Whelan, Executive Engineer
Mr. Nicholis Hartin, Executive Engineer
Mr. Adrian Grandison, Executive Engineer
Ms. Sarah McNamara, Staff Officer
CATHAOIRLEACH:
Cathaoirleach, Councillor Marie Casserly presided and welcomed all present to the meeting.
1.1 MINUTES OF MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF SLIGO – DRUMCLIFF HELD ON 9TH MARCH, 2026:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting of the Municipal District of Sligo-Drumcliff held on 9th March, 2026”.
2. DECLARATION OF INTERESTS/CONFLICT OF INTEREST:
None.
3. HEADED ITEMS:
3.1 UPDATE REPORT ON THE VACANT PROPERTY REFURBISHMENT GRANT AND DERELICT SITES REGISTER:
Mr. Adrian Grandison, Executive Engineer updated the meeting in regard to the VPRG as follows:
- 153 applications have been received
- 132 initial inspections have been completed
- 119 grants were approved
- 4 grants were rejected
- 19 applications were withdrawn by the applicant
- 51 Urban Grants
- 98 Rural Grants allocated
- 69 applications have received payment
DERELICT SITES REGISTER UPDATE:
Mr. Grandison informed the meeting that as at 8.5.2026 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.
Mr. Grandison added that on the 30th March 2026, the Expanded Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant was launched and the VPRG was extended to 18 months.
The EVPRG consists of the Expert Advice Grant for the new Vacant Above the Shop Conversions Grant and the new Conversion of former Commercial/Public Use Buildings to Residential Units for Towns and Villages.
Members thanked Mr. Grandison for his detailed reports. Mr. Grandison agreed to circulate further information relating to the VPRG (Expanded) to Members and also noted that information is available on the Sligo Co Co website and Social Media pages. Mr. Grandison left the meeting at 10am.
4 NOTICES OF MOTIONS:
4.1 REQUEST FOR SPEED CALMING AT R290 CARRIAIG ABHAINN AND BALLISODARE VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
"Given the speed survey showing 76.33% speed Violations on the R290, that Sligo County Council explore what options they will take on the R290 approaching the entrance to Carraig Abhainn and Ballisodare village to make exiting and entering Carraig Abhainn estate safer.
This motion be sent to Sligo Roads Traffic Division in An Garda Siochana."
Mr. Paul Hampson, SEE reported that the Active Travel Section of Sligo County Council completed significant works along the R290 between Collooney and Ballysadare in 2023 and 2024. Detailed and targeted interventions were provided at the entrance to the Carraig Abhainn Estate. The works reduced the carriageway with and introduced measures for pedestrians. These included safer pedestrian access and crossing points, alterations to the junction including junction tightening measures, alterations to the junction stop-bar to improve sightlines while exiting the junction. In a global contact the works completed have provided significant improvements to the entrance to the Carraig Abhainn Estate
The enforcement of speed limits and speed limit volitation's is a function of An Garda Siochana. Sligo County Council will complete a further traffic survey and refer the matter to the Garda.
Following further discussion on the matter, it was agreed that a speed survey be undertaken after the Summer months to get a true reflection of the speed of vehicles at this area.
4.2 MARKING OF CAR PARKING SPACES MAIN STREET BALLISODARE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry
AND AGREED
To ask Sligo County Council to clearly mark parking spaces along the Main Street in Ballisodare and to provide a 20-minute parking place.
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE noted that Sligo County Council will inspect the current arrangements for parking in Ballysadare Village. Lining of the car parking space will be examined considering the current situation on the ground, proposed short term projects that will influence parking locations and positions, and current funding resources available.
The proposal for a 20-minute parking place will be examined.
Councillor Walsh noted that Ballisodare Community Council had written to Mr. Paul Hampson SEE in this regard.
4.3. TEACHER ALLOCATION AT ST PATRICKS NS CALRY:
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council write to the Minister for Education to seek an update on the request for additional teacher allocation for St Patrick’s NS in Calry given that the school is experiencing a growing number of student enrolments and in order to ensure class sizes remain manageable and that all pupils receive the standard of education they deserve.”
In supporting the notice of motion, Councillor Marie Casserly informed the meeting that she had contacted the Minister for Education and Oireachtas Members in this regard.
4.4 PROPOSAL FOR RRDF FUNDING COLLOONEY VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council to make an Application for funding under RRDF for a project that would support the ongoing development and regeneration of Collooney village.
Collooney occupies a strategically important position within County Sligo as a key gateway location connecting the N4 and N17 corridors and serving as an important residential and commuter settlement. In recent years the village has experienced steady growth, and there is significant potential to further enhance its role as a vibrant, sustainable rural community. Collooney in 2026.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that an RRDF application was lodged to the value of €550,000, for Category 2 (Design) funding to the fifth call of RRDF in March 2025. The application included the design of public realm upgrades in the village core, including the development of a village car park, the upgrade of the Courthouse Building, and the provision of improved connectivity throughout the village. This call for funding was unsuccessful; however, Sligo County Council remains committed to engaging with the community in Collooney to develop future RRDF proposals, with the support of the Town Regeneration Officer (TRO) and the Capital Delivery Team.
Councillor Healy welcomed the reply but queried the reason the application had not been successful. Ms. Emer Concannon, Director of Service replied that no reason is given as to why the application was unsuccessful. She noted the application will be resubmitted by the Town Regeneration Team when RRDF Cat 2 applications, ie design applications are available and noted Collooney will be included at this time.
4.5 PROPOSED PURCHASE OF PRIMARY CARE CENTRE IN CLIFFONEY:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“For this Municipal District to write to the Minister for Education and government TDs to request that the Department of Education purchase the Primary Care Centre in Cliffoney for the present and future development needs of Cliffoney National School.”
Ms. Sarah NcNamara, Meeting Administrator to write to the Minister as outlined. Councillor Edel McSharry noted a question has been submitted to the Regional Health Forum in regard to the proposed transfer of the land involved which is currently owned by the HSE.
4.6 PROVISION FOR SAFETY IMPROVEMENT WORKS R286 KILTYCAHILL TO HAZELWOOD:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council have they make an Application for funding under safety improvement works in 2027 for Kiltycahill to the Hazelwood Ave on the R286, the Community highlights that there is a need for a pedestrian crossing also ramps to reduce the speed and to address the lack of footpaths for access to the local park.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that the location will be assessed and consideration will be given to making a submission for funding under the Department of Transport’s Safety Works Improvement Scheme 2027 funding programme.
All Members supported the motion.
4.7 MILL APARTMENT BLOCK IN BALLISODARE:
Proposed by Councillor T. Healy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“To call on Sligo County Council for an updated report on the following questions on the mill apartment in Ballisodare
1 The developer is Currently finalising revised costings to upgrade the apartments to current Building Regulation standards. On completion of these costings, a timescale for the works will be sought from the property owners.
This is what we were told in November 2025, has it been done?
2 Is it still the intension of Sligo County Council to purchase 30 units for social or affordable housing having engaged with the department on this matter?
3 Has Sligo County Council and the housing department put a time scale on when we will see this Project starting?
4 How much is the Government investment in the development and if Sligo County Council does not purchase the 30 units does the project still go ahead?
Ms. Emer Concannon, DOS reported that the Mill Apartments, Ballisodare, currently on the Derelict Sites Register, remain in private ownership. The owners of the apartments have not reverted to the Council with the costs of upgrading the apartments to current Building Regulation standards. These costings are necessary to inform discussions with the Department on the potential of purchasing any of the units. Discussions remain open between Sligo County Council and the property owners.
Queries were raised in regard to the Derelict Sites Register and Tax Implications for the owner, Local Authority to acquire units in the development. Ms. Emer Concannon Director of Service replied that she will revert to members with the Tax Implications amount on the building and also added that no decision has been made by the County Council to purchase any units to dater, this is fully dependent on cost.
4.8 WARNING SIGNAGE DUNALLY CROSSROADS:
Proposed by: Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by: Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“To request for the installation of clearer, more prominent warning signage in advance of the corner at Dunnally Crossroads, along with a flashing speed warning sign that alerts drivers when they are travelling too fast and encourages them to slow down. These measures could greatly improve safety at this dangerous junction.”
Mr. Paul Hampson reported that this crossroads forms part of the N16 Sligo to Drumkilsellagh Realignment Project, which is currently at Phase 2 (Options Selection) under the Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) Project Management Guidelines. As part of this project, the junction is proposed to be reconfigured to current design standards, representing the long-term approach to addressing safety at this location. Progression beyond the current phase, including detailed design and construction, is subject to TII approval at each stage, statutory requirements, and the availability and allocation of TII funding.
Notwithstanding the longer-term scheme, the location has been reviewed as part of the TII Road Safety Inspection process. Issues identified through this process are currently being examined by the Sligo Regional Design Office, in consultation with TII Road Safety Engineers, to inform consideration of appropriate interim safety interventions. This review is focused on the assessment of feasible short-term measures to improve safety and driver awareness at the junction, particularly for traffic accessing the N16 from the L3407. Any measures identified will be subject to technical appraisal, TII approval, and available funding.
Councillor Casserly queried the timeline for any improvement works and Councillor Gilroy added that drainage works are required past the Drum Road past Kilsellagh Junction.
Mr. Paul O’Rourke, A/Senior Engineer replied that a meeting with TIIs Inspector has been arranged for this afternoon to prioritise works. The Cathaoirleach Marie Casserly requested an update from that meeting be circulated to Members.
4.9 WATER SAFETY SIGNAGE LISSADELL BEACH:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor E. McSharry
AND AGREED
“To ask that relevant water safety signs be fitted at suitable locations at Lissadell Beach warning about strong currents and deep tides.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE replied that Sligo County Council will liaise with Water Safety Ireland to arrange for a risk assessment to be carried out at Lissadell Beach. As part of this assessment, Water Safety Ireland will provide recommendations regarding appropriate signage, where deemed necessary.
Sligo County Council will consider any recommendations arising from the completed risk assessment.
4.10 SPEED LIMIT REVIEW L 3405 CARROWMORE MEGALITHIC CEMETERY:
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
(a)That Sligo County Council provide an update on whether a speed limit review and road safety assessment has been carried out on the L3405 at Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, and outline any recommendations arising from this review to improve pedestrian, cyclist and visitor safety at this internationally significant heritage site.
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that the L3508- 0 is a Local Primary Road that has a speed limit of 60 km/h adjacent to Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
A traffic assessment was carried out in July 2025 over a 12-day period and the following data was established.
An average daily traffic count of 930 vehicles was calculated.
A Speed violations rate of 27% of vehicles was calculated.
This matter shall be referred to An Garda Síochána who are the body responsible for the enforcement of speeding on the public road network. Mr. Paul O’Rourke A/SE noted that the speed violations rate of 27% was good and added there are no plans for a tabletop installation on this road. Additionally, Mr. Paul O’Rourke A/SE added that the 85percentile speed (the speed at which 85% of traffic travel at, or under) was 65kph which was a good reflection on the current speed limit of 60kph. Following further discussion, Mr. O’Rourke A/SE agreed to contact the Active Travel Team. He noted that members should contact the Area Engineer with any specific roadwork requirements in this area.
(b)That Sligo County Council write to Christopher O'Sullivan requesting that his Department consider a dedicated capital funding stream to support the development of a safe pedestrian and cycle pathway to Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, outside of the existing Active Travel Programme, as a strategic investment to improve visitor safety and sustainable access in anticipation of increased tourism associated with the site's future UNESCO World Heritage ambitions.
Ms. Sarah McNamara Meeting Administrator to contact the Minister as outlined above.
4.11 PROPOSAL TO CONTACT LOCAL LINK RE ROUTES 563 AND 981 CALRY VILLAGE:
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council writes to TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim seeking an update on the proposal from the Calry community working group, supported by a local petition, to extend existing Local Link services 563 and 981 to link the L3409 with the R278 through Calry village.
The Council requests clarification on:
Whether the proposal is under active consideration;
Any work completed to date;
The key operational, technical or financial issues being assessed; and the likely timeframe for further update or decision.
The Council acknowledges the community effort involved and seeks a clear update for the Municipal District.
Ms. Sarah NcNamara, Meeting Administrator to write to Local Link as outlined.
4.12 OPENING HOURS PUBLIC TOILETS ROSSES POINT AND UPDATE ON ROSSES POINT WATER SPORTS/OUTDOOR ACTIVITY FACILITY:
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“Request the summer operating schedule be published for the existing public toilets at Rosses Point, including confirmation of opening dates, number of days per week the facility will be open, and daily operating hours during the peak season, to ensure consistent and reliable access for residents, sea swimmers and visitors. In addition, can the Council provides an update on the Rosses Point Water Sports / Outdoor Activity Facility project, outlining its current stage of development and an indicative timeline for commencement and completion of works.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE informed the Members that the toilets in Rosses Point have been open 24 /7 since Easter and will remain so until the end of September. From September until Easter the toilets will be opened on Friday from 3.30pm until Monday 8.30am. Toilets will be open during bank holidays.
ROSSES POINT WATER SPORTS/OUTDOOR ACTIVITY FACILITY:
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE informed the meeting that the ‘Platforms for Growth – Water Sports Facilities’ projects at both Rosses Point and Enniscrone were re-tendered due to excessive costs, with a return date of 10th June 2026.
Subject to the confirmation of funding, it is anticipated that construction works will commence in Q3 2026, with an estimated construction duration of approximately 12 months.
4.13 L 3205 MUNNINANE BALLINTRILLICK ROAD AT LYLE BRIDGE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council provide a report on the poor visibility on the L3205 Munninane to Ballintrillick Road at Lyle Bridge where the stone walls were raised and cause a loss of view of oncoming traffic and at Moneylehan (Raspberry Hill) L7214 Junction where road layout leaves a very poor view of traffic from Ballintrillick.
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE reported that the area office will investigate the location and establish the extent of works required. A suitable funding source will be examined to carry out any proposed works.
4.14 PROPOSED TAKING IN CHARGE OF GRANARY DRIVE AND THE MEADOWS GRANGE:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council provide an update on the taking in charge of Granary Drive and the Meadows Grange and take whatever action is required to force the completion of these developments in accordance with the planning permission granted.
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE informed the meeting that remedial works were carried out on the Meadows estate some time ago to bring it up to standard however there are 22 houses that remain unfinished in Granary Drive. This unfinished section of Granary Drive has been recently added to the Derelict Site register. As both estates share the same pumping station and access to the pumping station is from Granary Drive the taking in charge of the Meadows cannot proceed until Granary Drive is fully completed and an application is received to take it in charge.
4.15 PROPOSED TAKING IN CHARGE OF SEAVIEW PARK AND CEOL NA MARA CLIFFONEY:
Proposed by Councillor D. Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That Sligo County Council provide an update on the taking in charge of Seaview Park and Ceol Na Mara Cliffoney and give a guideline to when works will be completed.”
Mr. Paul Hampson SEE confirmed an assessment of the remedial works required to bring both estates up to standard is currently being carried out. It is expected that works will take place in Q3/Q4 2026.
5. VOTES OF SYMPATHY:
Proposed by Councillor D Gilroy
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mr. Eamon Scanlon TD on the recent death of his brother Gerard. RIP.”
Proposed by Councillor E. McSharry
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That a vote of sympathy be extended to Mrs. Daria Byrne and family on the recent death of her mother Sheila. RIP.”
6. VOTES OF CONGRATULATIONS:
Proposed by Councillor M. Casserly
Seconded by Councillor T. Walsh
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mr. Rowan O’Callaghan, Manager of the Drumcliffe Rosses Point Senior Ladies Team on their winning of the Connacht Gold Division 1 League Final held on 24th May, 2026 in Keash.”
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor D. Gilroy
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mr. Ciaran Crossan, Manager of the Cornageeha/St. Annes Community Games U13 Futsal Team on their winning of the All Ireland U13 Futsal Community Games Final.”
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor T. Healy
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to the Owenmore Gaels Ladies Team on their winning of the Connacht Gold Division 3 League Final held 24th May, 2026 in Keash.”
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Ms. Margaret McConnell on her recent retirement from Sligo County Council after over 40 years of public service.”
Proposed by Councillor T. Walsh
Seconded by Councillor M. Casserly
AND AGREED
“That a vote of congratulations be extended to Mr. Cyril McNamara on his recent retirement from Sligo County Council after over 41 years of Public Service.”
7. CORRESPONDENCE:
Noted.
8. MATTERS ARISING:
None.
9. ANY OTHER BUSINESS:
THANK YOU TO MR. PAUL HAMPSON SEE:
Cathaoirleach Marie Casserly noted the transfer Mr. Paul Hampson Senior Executive Engineer and Municipal District Manager. She wished to thank Mr. Hampson for his professionalism, support and guidance and respect shown to the Elected Members. All Members wished Mr. Hampson well in his new role.
Members also thanked former Area Engineer Mr. Brendan Ferguson and wished him well in his role. Mr. Nicholis Hartin, Area Engineer was welcomed to the MD.
Members requested a list of staff changes in the MD in order for them to contact the correct staff Member. Mr. Paul O’Rourke A/SE to follow up.
BUS STOPS AND BUS SHELTERS:
Councillor Thomas Walsh noted from the April Plenary meeting, it was agreed Members to have MD meetings to discuss the Bus Stops Enhancement Programme and shelters locations prior to any Public Consultation. Mr. Paul O’Rourke A/Senior Engineer to confirm if there is a statutory process for a public consultation and agreed a meeting be arranged with the MD Members in regard to this matter.
10. DATE AND TIME FOR AGM MD MEETING:
The AGM of the Municipal District has been fixed for 9.30 am on Friday, 19th June, 2026 in the Council Chamber, Riverside.
The business of the meeting concluded at 12.05 p.m.
Meeting Date 25/05/2026