Minutes: September 2004
September 13th, 2004MINUTES AND PROCEEDINGS OF IN-COMMITTEE MEETING OF LETTERKENNY TOWN COUNCIL HELD IN THE TOWN COUNCIL OFFICES, LETTERKENNY PUBLIC SERVICES CENTRE, NEIL T. BLANEY ROAD, LETTERKENNY ON MONDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER, 2004 AT 6.15 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Cllr. D. Larkin, Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Blake, Cllr. N. Clarke, Cllr. J. Crossan, Cllr. G. Mc Monagle, Cllr. J. Harte, Cllr. J. Lynch, Cllr. C. Brogan and
Cllr. V. Fisher
OFFICIALS PRESENT:
Paddy Doherty, Town Clerk
Frances Friel, Asst. Town Clerk
On the proposal of Cllr. D. Blake, seconded by Cllr. N. Clarke it was agreed that the Council go into committee for the purpose of this meeting.
RECEPTION OF DEUPTATION – LETTERKENNY TAXI ASSOCIATION
The Town Mayor welcomed a deputation from the Letterkenny Taxi Owners Association namely, Pauric Keogh, Chairperson, Martin Mc Glynn and Martin Kelly. Mr. Pauric Keogh thanked the Members for accepting their deputation outlining their concerns as follows;
Price Increase: Mr. Pauric Keogh outlined to the Members the necessity for a price increase and also the need to have the pricing structure changed to metric. The Town Mayor advised the deputation that the Council would arrange a Special Meeting to discuss this issue.
Provision of New Ranks: Mr. Pauric Keogh asked that the Council position new taxi ranks at Churchlane and the possibility of reversing the one-way systems in that traffic would go up the square and down the Church Lane. He stated that the taxi drivers felt that the Square was not working well and outlined that there were currently no signs at the Market Square.
Toilet facilities: Mr. Pauric Keogh outlined to the Members the need for public toilet facilities in the Town.
Provision of Signs: Mr. Pauric Keogh outlined the necessity for “Q Here� signs at existing ranks.
Licences: Mr. Pauric Keogh asked that the Council stop issuing licences in respect of Taxi/Hackneys as they felt there was currently an over-concentration of licence holders. Mr. Paddy Doherty, Town Clerk advised the deputation that since the introduction of the deregulation that the Council had currently no powers to regulate the numbers of licences granted.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin advised the deputation that the Council would write to the regulating authority and ask that they suspend the issuing of plates. Cllr. D. Larkin thanked the deputation for the presentation stating that their concerns would be taken on board and that the Council would assist them in any way they could.
RECEPTION OF DEPUTATION – NAIONRA LEITIR CEANAINN
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin welcomed a deputation from Naionra Leitir Ceanainn namely, Donal Mac Lochlainn, , Anne Ryan, Secretary. Mr. Donal Mac Lochlainn began by outlining to the Members that the Naionra was a voluntary, non-profit making crèche. He stated that they now required bigger premises outlined 3 possibilities namely; (a) provision of a site (b) renovating of any premises the Council may have and (c) the building of a purpose built naionra with a longterm lease.
A brief discussion followed with the Members thanking the deputation for their presentation acknowledging the hard work and dedication of those involved. The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin also thanked the deputation for their presentation recommending that the deputation make contact with the County Development Board and it was agreed that the Town Council would arrange for a deputation to meet with the Community Development Board.
CIVIC RECEPTION
On the proposal of Cllr. V. Fisher seconded by Cllr. C. Brogan, it was agreed that this Council holds a Civic Reception for Bernard Mc Glinchey for his outstanding work for the Town Council from 1955-2004. On proposing the motion Cllr. V. Fisher paid tribute to B. Mc Glinchey for his dedication and outstanding work with all Members in turn paying tribute.
It was also agreed that a committee be set up whereby a protocol would be set up for the holding of civic receptions.
This concluded the business of the meeting.
MINUTES AND PROCEEDINGS OF MONTHLY MEETING OF LETTERKENNY TOWN COUNCIL HELD IN THE TOWN COUNCIL OFFICES, LETTERKENNY PUBLIC SERVICES CENTRE, NEIL T. BLANEY ROAD, LETTERKENNY ON MONDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER, 2004 AT 7.00 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Cllr. D. Larkin, Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Blake, Cllr. N. Clarke, Cllr. J. Crossan, Cllr. G. Mc Monagle, Cllr. J. Harte, Cllr. J. Lynch, Cllr. C. Brogan and
Cllr. V. Fisher
OFFICIALS PRESENT:
Paddy Doherty, Town Clerk
Frances Friel, Asst. Town Clerk
On the proposal of Cllr. J. Harte, seconded by Cllr. V. Fisher it was agreed that the Council adjourn the meeting until 27th September, 2004 as a mark of respect for the late A.D. Kelly, former Town Councillor. On proposing the motion Cllr. J. Harte paid tribute to the late A.D. Kelly and his contribution to politics being a life-long Member of the Fine Gael Party and commiserated with the Kelly family. The Members in turn paid tribute to the late A.D. Kelly and passed their condolences to the family.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin also paid tribute and asked that the Council observe a minute’s silence in his honour and also for the Beslan tragedy.
A minute’s silence was observed with the September Monthly Meeting to reconvene on Monday 27th September, 2004.
This concluded the business of the meeting.
MINUTES AND PROCEEDINGS OF IN-COMMITTEE MEETING OF LETTERKENNY TOWN COUNCIL HELD IN THE TOWN COUNCIL OFFICES, LETTERKENNY PUBLIC SERVICES CENTRE ON MONDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER, 2004 AT 6.15 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Cllr. D. Larkin, Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Blake, Cllr. J. Crossan, Cllr. C. Brogan, Cllr. N. Clarke, Cllr. G. Mc Monagle, Cllr. J. Lynch, Cllr. J. Harte and Cllr. V. Fisher
OFFICIALS PRESENT:
M. Mc Loone, County Manager
P. Doherty, Town Clerk
P. McRory, D.C.C.
Con Mc Laughlin, D.C.C.
Paul Kilcoyne, D.C.C.
APOLOGIES:
Jim Holohon, Director (Sanitary Services)
On the proposal of Cllr. N. Clarke seconded by Cllr. V. Fisher it was agreed that “Hideout View� be changed to James Collins Terrace. It was also agreed that the Irish Version also be included.
LETTERKENNY WATER SUPPLY-AUGMENTATION
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin welcomed officials from the Sanitary Services section to the meeting. Mr. Peadar McRory circulated a report in relation to the Letterkenny Water Supply Augmentation Scheme.
Mr. McRory advised that the Water Augmentation Scheme and the Water Conservation Project would not meet development demands during the next 4 years and in this regard the Council were considering emergency works based on Lough Greenan. Mr. McRory also advised that some network deficiencies also existed which required remedial works. The cost of the works amount to €2.2m and Mr. McRory further advised that the monies would need to be raised locally as it was envisaged that Departmental funding would not be available.
A lengthy discussion followed and Members expressed serious concerns regarding the water situation in the town. The Members also raised concerns regarding how the monies would be raised.
The County Manager, M. Mc Loone outlined to the Members that the main options available were; (1) a special contribution which would be levied under the current scheme (2) a supplementary contribution scheme which would require full public consultation etc. He stated that he would like to have a commitment in the next month and would come back to the Members with a specific recommendation on the options as outlined.
Mr. Peadar McRory thanked the Members and outlined that pending final resolution of the issue, council officials will continue to facilitate new development by recommending approval subject to special development contributions.
This concluded the business of the meeting.
MINUTES AND PROCEEDINGS OF RE-CONVENED MONTHLY MEETING OF LETTERKENNY TOWN COUNCIL HELD IN THE TOWN COUNCIL OFFICES, PUBLIC SERVICES CENTRE, NEIL T. BLANEY ROAD, LETTERKENNY AT 7.00 PM ON MONDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER, 2004.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Cllr. D. Larkin, Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Blake, Cllr. N. Clarke, Cllr. J. Crossan, Cllr. G. Mc Monagle, Cllr. J. Harte, Cllr. J. Lynch, Cllr. C. Brogan and Cllr. V. Fisher
OFFICIALS PRESENT:
M. Mc Loone, County Manager
Paddy Doherty, Town Clerk
Jim Harley, Senior Planner
Pat Gillespie, Area Manager (Roads)
Frank Sweeney, Area Manager (Planning)
James Kelly, D.C.C.
Frances Friel, Asst. Town Clerk
ADOPTION OF MINUTES
On the proposal of Cllr. J. Harte seconded by Cllr. C. Brogan the minutes of Special In-Committee Meeting held on 12th July, 2004 were adopted by the Council.
On the proposal of Cllr. C. Brogan seconded by Cllr. J. Lynch, the minutes of Monthly Meeting held on 12th July, 2004 were adopted by the Council.
On the proposal of cllr. J. Crossan seconded by Cllr. J. Harte the minutes of Special Meeting held on 31.08.04 were adopted by the Council.
MANAGER’S ORDERS
Orders made by the County Manager since the date of the last meeting were noted by the Council.
It was agreed that Cllr. J. Harte’s motion be dealt with at this stage.
Cllr. J. Harte proposed that the Council discuss the zoning of opportunity sites at Ashlawn/Ballyraine which is presently zoned educational. Cllr. J. Harte referred to a current planning application for the development of 41 no. houses etc at Ashlawn/Ballyraine on a site that is zoned “opportunity /educational site� in the current development plan. A lengthy discussion followed with a number of Councillors outlining the concerns from local residents in relation to the development and queried the power of the Members in relation to rezoning.
Mr. Jim Harley, Senior Planner circulated a map of the area to the Members outlining that the site in question was covered by Policy CF4 (Provision of Education Facilities) in the current Development Plan. He stated that the development did meet the policy requirement in that “All sites could accommodate a range of ancillary functions as benefits a neighbour centre etc� and stated that it was the current view of the planning office that the site did not require a rezoning.
Further discussions followed with Cllr. J. Harte requesting the Planners to further examine the matter and revert back to the Members.
CORRESPONDENCE
The Town Clerk informed the Members of correspondence received from Mr. P.J. Blake in recognition of the recent Civic Reception held in his honour. It was agreed that a copy of the said letter be circulated to the Members.
The Town Clerk informed the Members of an induction course for Newly Elected Members to be held in the Sligo Park Hotel on Friday, 8th October, 2004 and it was agreed that the 3 newly elected Members could attend this course.
The Town Clerk informed the Members of a Conference being hosted by Enterprise Kiltullagh Ltd entitled “Object 1: Has balanced Regional Development been achieved�? to be held in The White House Hotel, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon on Thursday October 28th, 2004. The Members having been informed of the cost of attending agreed that 2 Members should attend and the names drawn on this occasion were Cllr. J. Harte and Cllr. V. Fisher.
MAYOR’S BUSINESS
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin queried the recent ESB powercut in the town and asked that the Council seek clarification on the matter.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin referred to the recent announcement of the closure of Unifi and asked that a letter be sent on behalf of the Council to express sympathy to the staff.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin informed the Members of his attendance on behalf of the Council at the Glencar Funweek which was a major success.
The Town Mayor referred to the new Farmers Market currently operating in the town and wished it every success.
The Town Mayor welcomed the news of Letterkenny’s success to host the Fleadh Cheoil in 2005/2006 and asked that a letter of congratulations be sent to Chairperson and Noel Mc Ginley.
The Town Mayor referred to his attendance at a number of functions on behalf of the Town Council, namely Civic Reception for P.J. Blake and the opening of the Bonagee football pitch.
The Town Mayor referred to the unfortunate fire damage caused to the old Council Offices at Covehill.
The Deputy Town Mayor referred to his attendance at a lunch to welcome delegates from Elizabethtown currently twinned with Letterkenny.
DEPUTATION – LETTERKENNY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin welcomed a deputation from Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce.
Mr. Gerard Mc Cormick, Retail Committee Chairperson of Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce & Industry circulated a report to the Members in relation to a recent survey carried out by them. In conclusion of this study the Chamber of Commerce felt that the proportion of retail premises was too low in all areas of the town and especially in the Upper Main Street area. He further stated that the limited number of larger units in the Main Street and Port Road area make it difficult for big name shops to open. It was felt that a unit of 3,000 sq. ft. or more is needed to accommodate big name shops. They Chamber asked that the planning process take account of the need to develop large units in the existing town centre and the need to cluster retail units in close proximity and service providers at the periphery of these retail clusters and the importance of having a Town Manager in Letterkenny.
Mr. Gerard Mc Cormick introduced Mr. Ferghal Reidy from DTZ Consulting who proceeded with a presentation on “Letterkenny Town Centre Shopping – Balancing the Change�.
A lengthy discussion followed with Mr. Jim Harley, Senior Planner, outlining that the current Development Plan refers to the importance of the existing town centre and the expansion of same.
Mr. Brian Mc Cormick thanked the Council for giving them the opportunity to give their presentation.
The County Manager, M. Mc Loone thanked the Chamber for their presentation and appreciated their initiative in employing professional advice. He stated that the Council will work closely with the Chamber, initially involving talks with the Town Clerk and Senior Planners.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin thanked the deputation for their presentation.
PROGRESS REPORT – LETTERKENNY LEISURE COMPLEX
Mr. Paul Mc Gill, Project Manager updated the Members on the current position in relation to the Letterkenny Leisure Complex. He stated that at present the Main Contract together all the sub-contract elements were currently out to tender with a closing date for return of same being 30th September, 2004 and 1st October, 2004.
Paul Mc Gill, Project Manager accepted that there were now a number of new Members on the Council and that arrangements would be made for them to examine the basic layout of the complex.
A lengthy discussion followed with the Members expressing their concerns and disappointment at the lack of progress to date on the project. However, the Members welcomed the news that the project was currently out to tender with Paul Mc Gill stating that tenders received would be processed as quickly as possible.
TRAFFIC CALMING REPORT
REPORT ON LOOP ROAD
It was agreed that both these items together with a report on speed limits would be deferred to a special meeting to be held on Monday 4th October, 2004.
LETTERKENNY SEWERAGE IMPROVEMENT SCHEME/WATER AUGMENTATION SCHEME-UPDATE
A report was circulated to the Members in relation to Water and Environment Services – Capital Programme Update.
The Letterkenny Water Supply Scheme had been discussed at the incommittee meeting with Mr. Paul Kilcoyne now updating the Members in relation to Waste Management and in particular in relation to the provision of a Civic Amenity Site. Mr. Paul Kilcoyne went through the report in detail with the Members. The report stated that the NWHB had proposed a site for a Civic Amenity Site and it was hoped that the site could be development within 6-8 months pending arrangements being finalised. A brief discussion followed with the Members expressing their disappointment on the lack of progress.
Mr. Trevor Gordon briefed the Members in relation to the Letterkenny Sewerage Improvement Scheme. He stated that works had commenced on the project in August 2004 at Ballyraine and that further works would take place on the Port Road, Pearse Road, and De-Valera Road/Kilmacrennan Road. A brief discussion took place with the Members welcoming the commencement of works on the project but expressed their concerns on the likely disruptions and asked that every effort be made to minimise disruption to businesses and that disruptions do not take place at rush hour.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin thanked Peadar Mc Groary, Paul Kilcoyne and Trevor Gordon for their presentation.
ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT
On the proposal of Cllr. N. Clarke seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan the Members adopted the Annual Financial Statement for 2003.
NOMINATIONS TO THE BOARD OF AN GRIANAN THEATRE(2)
Cllr. C. Brogan proposed that Cllr. J. Crossan and Cllr. D. Larkin be nominated as the Council’s delegates to the Board of An Grianan Theatre. This proposal was seconded by Cllr. V. Fisher.
Cllr. N. Clarke proposed that Cllr. G. Mc Monagle and Cllr. J. Lynch be nominated as the Council’s delegates to the Board of An Grianan Theatre. This proposal was seconded by Cllr. J. Lynch.
As there were 4 proposals for 2 positions put forward the matter was put to a vote with 6 Members voting in favour of Cllr. J. Crossan, 5 Members voting in favour of Cllr. D. Larkin, 3 Members voting in favour of Cllr. J. Lynch and 3 Members voting in favour of Cllr. G. Mc Monagle. Cllr. C. Brogan’s proposal was therefore carried with Cllr. J. Crossan and Cllr. D. Larkin being nominated to the Board of An Grianan Theatre.
It was also agreed on the proposal of Cllr. V. Fisher seconded by Cllr. N. Clarke that Cllr. J. Lynch would become the Council’s delegate in the event of Cllr. J. Crossan being nominated by another body.
RECEPTION OF DEPUTATIONS
The Town Clerk informed the Members that a request for a deputation had also been received from the Doorway Project and on the proposal of Cllr. C. Brogan seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan it was agreed that the Council receive a deputation from the following groups at future meetings of the Council; (a) Mc Neely Villas Residents Association, (b) Letterkenny Reunion, (c) The Y-Zone (d) Donegal Mountain Rescue and (e) The Doorway Project/
REVISION OF REMUNERATION
On the proposal of Cllr. C. Brogan seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan the Members approved Phase 2 of pay increase under Sustaining Progress as outlined in Circular Letter EL 8/04.
NEW AMENITY SITE
In answer to his question Cllr. D. Larkin was advised that the NWHB have proposed a site for a Civic Amenity Site and if arrangements are finalised it is proposed that the site could be developed within 6-8 months subject to planning permission
LISMONAGHAN ROAD
In answer to his question Cllr. D. Larkin was advised that resurfacing works with junction of Leck Road have been completed within the last 2 weeks. Cllr. D. Larkin outlined that he was referring the portion of the road from Hillcrest estate and it was agreed that Pat Gillespie, Area Manager would revert back on the matter.
AUDIT OF FOOTPATHS
In answer to his question Cllr. D. Larkin was advised that an audit of the footpaths on the High Road, Ramelton Road, Upper Main Street and Lower Main Street will be carried out by the County Council in conjunction with the N.W.H.B. Disability section. The audit will identify surface deficiencies and problem areas for the less able bodied. The carrying out of such an audit is expected to take some weeks and it is hoped to bring a report to the elected members by the December meeting.
RAMPS – LONGLANE/BALLYRAINE
In answer to his question Cllr. J. Harte was advised that traffic calming roadmarkings have been installed at Longlane. Further measures are required and it is intended to install speed tables in late 2004. The Ballyraine junction is currently being upgraded which may remove through traffic from Ballyraine Park. The Council will re-assess Ballyraine Park following completion of these works.
CRIEVESMITH PARK
In answer to his question Cllr. J. Harte was advised that a sign has been ordered for Crievesmith Park.
CARNAMUGGAGH-LISNENAN RELIEF ROAD
In answer to his question Cllr. C. Brogan was advised that Donegal County Council have informed that kerbing to allow bitumous surfacing as far as entrance to IDA site is almost complete. The next stage is earthworks, opening the section as far as Kilmacrennan Road. These works will begin in the near future.
BALLYRAINE JUNCTION
In answer to his question Cllr. C. Brogan was advised that works are currently underway at the Ballyraine junction.
TARA COURT
In answer to his question Cllr. C. Brogan was advised that works are due to commence in Tara Court at the end of October.
TRAFFIC PLANS – PEARSE ROAD/PADDY HARTE ROAD
In answer to his question Cllr. G. Mc Monagle was advised that a report on the Loop Road would be presented to the Members at a Special Meeting to be held on 4th October, 2004.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS – CIRCULAR ROAD
In answer to his question Cllr. G. Mc Monagle was advised that the Council are currently awaiting for the maintenance company to send a technician to repair the lights.
SUB POST OFFICE
In answer to his question Cllr. G. Mc Monagle was advised that An Post have advised that services at Letterkenny Post Office are considered to be adequate for the current needs of the town. However, they acknowledge the increase in business volume at the Post Office and that the question of establishing a further office in the town will be kept under regular review. It was agreed that a copy of An Post’s letter be circulated to each Member.
DEVELOPMENT CHARGES
In answer to his question Cllr. N. Clarke was advised that the Council are currently updating our new planning administration system with details of all planning applications together with associated development charges. It is anticipated that the database will be completed within a number of weeks and at that stage the information requested will be available.
FLOODING – LR. MAIN STREET
In answer to his question Cllr. N. Clarke was advised that Donegal County Council have advised that drainage in Main Street needs to be examined as it appears to be inadequate in extreme conditions. Any immediate measures to protect property from flooding will be carried out.
JUSTICE WALSH ROAD
In answer to his question Cllr. N. Clarke was advised that following consultation with Council Officials and staff, it was agreed that the temporary structure on Justice Walsh Road be retained for the life of the construction of the overall project at which stage the through road would be back filled. The purpose of the underpass serves to keep construction traffic off the public road.
MEADOWBANK PARK
In answer to his question Cllr. D. Blake was advised that discussions have been ongoing with the Council’s Solicitor with regard to the request from the residents of Meadowbank Park and formal correspondence will be received this week. It is proposed to bring a report to the October Meeting of the Council in this regard within the context of the overall policy of takeover of housing estates.
OLD COUNCIL OFFICES
In answer to his question Cllr. D. blake was advised that an insurance investigation is currently ongoing. Discussions have taken place with the Youth Service and Council have honoured their financial agreement as previously agreed.
BESLAN TRAGEDY
In answer to her question Cllr. J. Crossan was advised that the Council will write to the Russian Ambassador if the Members so wish.
CARNAMUGGAGH ROAD
In answer to her question Cllr. J. Crossan was advised that traffic calming ramps, roadmarkings and signage have been introduced on Carnamuggagh Road. Further traffic calming measures are currently being assessed.
ADJOURNMENT
It was agreed at this stage that further items on the Agenda would be adjourned until Monday 4th October, 2004 at 7.00 pm.
This concluded the business of the meeting.
MINUTES AND PROCEEDINGS OF RE-CONVENED MONTHLY MEETING OF LETTERKENNY TOWN COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY 4TH OCTOBER, 2004 AT 7.00 PM IN THE TOWN COUNCIL OFFICES, PUBLIC SERVICES CENTRE, NEIL T. BLANEY ROAD, LETTERKENNY AT 7.00 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Cllr. D. Larkin, Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Blake, Cllr. N. Clarke, Cllr. J. Crossan, Cllr. J. Harte, Cllr. J. Lynch, and Cllr. G. Mc Monagle, Cllr. C. Brogan
OFFICIALS PRESENT:
P. Doherty, Town Clerk
Pat Gillespie, Area Manager (Roads)
Jim Bonnar, Road Design
Frank Sweeney, Planning
Claire Mc Geever, Town Engineer
F. Friel, Asst. Town Clerk
APOLOGIES:
Cllr. V. Fisher
On the proposal of Cllr. J. Crossan seconded by Cllr. G. Mc Monagle it was agreed that the October Monthly Meeting of Letterkenny Town Council take place on Monday 18th October, 2004.
The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin congratulated St. Eunan’s under 14’s on their recent achievement. The Town Mayor, Cllr. D. Larkin thanked the Letterkenny Athletic Club on their invitation to all Councillors to their presentation dance
TRAFFIC CALMING
Mr. Pat Gillespie, Area Manager, Roads gave a detailed report in relation to traffic calming as previously circulated. The report recommend that the Council adopt the contents of the report as a schedule of classification for the roads listed, thus clarifying the type of traffic calming measures which are options to the Town Engineer.
A lengthy discussion took place with Members outlining their concerns in relation to the urgent need for traffic calming measures on a number of roads especially the Oldtown Road and Long Lane.
The Members felt that ramps were the answer on a number of roads.
On the proposal of Cllr. C. Brogan seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan it was agreed that a workshop be held in relation to traffic calming.
REVIEW ON OPERATION OF LOOP ROAD
The Members considered a report on the Pearse Road/Neil T. Blaney Road/Paddy Harte Road One-way System Review. Mr. Jim Bonnar, Road Design went through the report in detail with the Members.
A lengthy discussion followed with Cllr. D. Blake outlining his disappointed with the report stating that it was previously outlined that safety be the number one priority and felt that this was not addressed. Cllr. C. Brogan outlined that a decision had been made in July to revisit the one-way system. He also stated that the safety issue has not been addressed. He asked that Road Design go back and revisit the possibility of reverting back to a two-ways system on Pearse Road. Cllr. J. Harte also outlined his concerns and particularly on the findings of the Saturn System. Cllr. N. Clarke stated that traffic control needs to be looked at in the town as a whole and that safety of pedestrians must take precedence. Cllr. J. Crossan also agreed that safety was the number one issue and that the two-way system should be revisited to accommodate retailers in the area. Cllr. G. Mc Monagle also highlighted the safety issue and that the views of retailers should be taken on board. Cllr. J. Lynch outlined his concerns in relation to the lack of direction signs and the untidy traffic islands. Cllr. D. Larkin acknowledged the valid points raised by the Councillors but outlined that this was a very successful road. He outlined his disappointment that the Saturn model does not show why the two-way system would not work.
Pat Gillespie, Area Manager, stated that the traffic is moving well on the Loop Road. He pointed out that the entrance/exit to Atlantic Homecare can be resolved and that a pedestrian crossing would be put in place at the Cinema. He asked that the Council not go back to the two-way system and that the Council would address access difficulties for businesses and recommended that the current one-way system remain in operation.
Cllr. C. Brogan proposed that Road Design bring back proposals to the Council to allow the two-way system be put in place on Pearse Road between JJ Reids and Mc Donalds as asked for by the traders and the Chamber of Commerce. This proposal was seconded by Cllr. N. Clarke. Cllr. D. Larkin proposed that the matter be left with the Engineers to resolve the access difficultes, pedestrian safety etc and that the Council speak to the traders. There was no seconder for Cllr. D. Larkin’s proposal. Therefore the Council agreed to revert back to the two-way system with 7 Members voting in favour of the proposal.
SPEED LIMITS
The Members considered a report in relation to Speed Limit Metrication and the Countywide Speed Limit Review as previously circulated together with map of current and proposed speed limits. The report indicated that the introduction of metric speed limits is scheduled to take place across the country on 20th January, 2004. In relation to the review of Speed Limits the Members were advised that a countywide review would be taking place to ensure that the current locations and speed limits are the most appropriate, and if not, to establish the most appropriate locations and limits, and have bye-laws amended accordingly.
Mr. Pat Gillespie, Area Manager outlined that the review would go to public consultation and all observations considered. A lengthy discussion followed with the Members supporting that the review go to public consultation and looked forward to a report being brought back to the Council.
NEW BRIDGE
Cllr. D. Larkin proposed that this Council start the process to design a new bridge over the River Swilly as identified in our Development Plan. On proposing the motion Cllr. D. Larkin asked that the Council start designing a bridge for the new Relief Road and that this be incorporated in the 2005 Budget. He also outlined that the Oldtown Bridge also needs to be addressed. This motion was seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan.
ARTS CENTRE
Cllr. D. Larkin proposed that the Council now reconsider the plans for the new Arts Centre in Letterkenny given the traffic fire that has robbed the Donegal Youth Service of our old offices. On proposing the motion Cllr. D. Larkin outlined that he is now aware that the plans for the Arts Centre have progressed to an advanced stage and therefore wished to amend his motion that the Town Clerk on behalf of the Council with the Donegal Youth Service and come up with an alternative plan. A lengthy discussion followed with Members asking that a multifunctional building be provided that could accommodate a number of groups and asked that a report be given on the future of the old offices. This motion was seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan.
GREEN AREAS
Cllr. J. Harte proposed that the Council investigate the green areas of housing estates so that they cannot be sold off by Developers. On proposing the motion Cllr. J. Harte outlined that he was aware of one particular incident whereby a green area had been sold off to a developer. The motion was seconded by Cllr. D. Blake. Mr. Frank Sweeney, Planning outlined to the Members that the Council would have major difficulty with any development in a green area
FOOTBALL PITCH – IONA SCHOOLBOYS SOCCER
Cllr. J. Harte proposed that the area between Glencar Shopping Centre and Centra be developed into a football pitch for Iona Schoolboys soccer. This motion was seconded by Cllr. J. Lynch. Cllr. G. Mc Monagle advised the Members that the local CDP were working to get a community building in this area which would incorporate a football pitch together with changing facilities etc and asked that Cllr. J. Harte hold off on his motion until plans are finalised. A brief discussion followed with Cllr. J. Harte outlining that the matter needs to progress as soon as possible.
LINK ROAD FROM DUNNES STORES TO SALLAGHGRANE
Cllr. C. Brogan proposed that the Council discuss the proposed Link Road from Dunnes Stores to Sallaghgrane. This motion was seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan. On proposing the motion Cllr. C. Brogan outlined that this road had been in the Development Plan for sometime and would welcome development of same.
STREET LIGHTING
Cllr. C. Brogan proposed that the Council discuss Street Lighting in Letterkenny. On proposing the motion Cllr. C. Brogan outlined that and audit was needed of all lights in the town and that there appeared to be a serious breakdown in communication. Cllr. G. Mc Monagle proposed that this Council arrange a meeting with the ESB to discuss the issue of non-operational street lighting and to discuss the necessity of adequate lighting in all areas of the town in the run up to the winter months. On proposing his motion Cllr. G. Mc Monagle who outlined that lines of lights were continuously going out and that an urgent meeting was required with the ESB. These motions were seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan. Cllr. N. Clarke outlined that the Council needed to avoid light pollution and that the Council should take responsibility and that the Council take calls and forward problems onto the ESB. A brief discussion followed with Members outlining their concerns with the current situtation.
LETTERKENNY GENERAL HOSPITAL
Cllr. G. Mc Monagle proposed that this Council seek and all party delegation meeting with Health Minister, Mary Harney to discuss the ongoing problems at Letterkenny General Hospital regarding shortage of beds and staff. On proposing the motion Cllr. G. Mc Monagle outlined that a 3 story extension was needed at the General Hospital to take up all the beds allocated and asked that the Council meet with the Management Team prior to meeting the Minister. This motion was seconded by Cllr. C. Brogan.
CENTRAL HEATING
Cllr. G. Mc Monagle proposed that this Council put in place a plan to upgrade all Urban Council housing with oil central heating over the term of this Council, to be completed by 2009, or to make it available to those who seek same. This motion was seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan. On proposing the motion Cllr. G. Mc Monagle stated all new houses now had central heating and that old houses should now be addressed. He further requested that the Council consider the provision of back boilers in all future houses. Mr. Paddy Doherty, Town Clerk advised the Members that arising from a motion previously put forward by Cllr. J. Crossan that a submission was made to the Department in relation to the provision of central heating in approximately 50 houses and was positive that a favourable response would be received.
TOWN BUS
Cllr. N. Clarke proposed that the Council set up a committee to oversee the establishment of the proposed town bus service. This motion was seconded by Cllr. J. Crossan. On proposing the motion Cllr. N Clarke outlined that this service was urgently needed. It was agreed that the Town Clerk would bring back and report on who should be on the board.
DEVELOPERS
Cllr. N. Clarke proposed that Contractors who do not complete previous developments be refused planning permission for new developments. Mr. Frank Sweeney, Planning outlined that he did not believe that such a motion could be passed and it was therefore agreed that the motion be kept on the agenda until clarification is received.
COBBLESTONES AT ROUNDABOUT AT LOWER MAIN STREET
Cllr. D. Blake proposed that this Council make immediate repairs to the dangerous cobblestones at the Roundabout at Lower Main Street. Cllr. D. Blake advised that he was now aware that this work had been attended to.
MEETING WITH IDA
Cllr. J. Crossan proposed that this Council request a meeting with the IDA and other relevant bodies regarding the jobs situation in Letterkenny. This motion was seconded by Cllr. C. Brogan. In proposing the motion Cllr. J. Crossan outlined that support was needed for the small business as they had a major part to play in job creation. A brief discussion followed and it was agreed that a meeting be arranged with the IDA.
This concluded the business of the meeting.