Our recent spate of good weather, combined with the brighter evenings has given everyone a lift and we look forward to it returning next week. It was particularly great to see so many people and families out enjoying the festivities being celebrated as part of our local parades. However, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has also been a sobering matter for us, especially as we have begun to welcome the first Ukrainian refugees to our area.Local communitieshave really stepped up in supporting these people.
Since my last community update, I have been meeting residents on my walkabouts across the area. The below provides an overview of some of the work which I have been doing over the past few weeks.
Shane
Footpaths, Road and Cycle Track Repairs funding secured
The Council has approved the 2022 Footpaths, Road Maintenance and Cycle Track Maintenance schedule which will see almost €1million euro spent on these programmes in our area. This reflects the many representations I have made on behalf of these areas since being elected. I’m happy to see long overdue works take place, but disappointed that Lucan estates in Palmerstown Fonthill aren’t featured, especially where I have raised concerns. However, I am pleased to see cycle track maintenance work planned for Griffeen Avenue and will be pressing the Council to ensure this work goes as far as the Balgaddy roundabout – this is something I have raised repeatedly (full programme here).
Twenty storey tower at Foxhunter site refused permission
After many months of waiting, An Bord Pleanála has decided to uphold South Dublin County Council’s decision to refuse permission for a twenty-storey tower at the old Foxhunter site. I welcome this decision, with severe knock-on effects for local infrastructure. The comprehensive set of reasons for refusal by the Board illustrates why this was such a flawed proposal as highlighted by my many public meetings on it. Well done to all who came together to make observations on this to the Board.
DEIS Status secured for Divine Mercy Junior & Senior National Schools
I was delighted to get confirmation from my colleague Norma Foley, Minister for Education, that DEIS status has been restored for Divine Mercy JNS & Divine Mercy SNS, Balgaddy. I’m a proud past pupil and happy to see this necessary additional support. This is long overdue and something I have directly raised with the Minister since being elected, as well as at Council level.
Seeking action on derelict homes
Following concerns raised by residents about derelict homes near them, I raised thismatter at the monthlyCouncil meeting. I was unable to get information on the number of active investigations into derelict sites, but I did learn that there are 12 sites on the register, two of which are in Palmerstown Fonthill. This contrasts with the experience of residents, so I will be raising this matter with my colleague, Minister for Housing, Darragh O’Brien TD.
County Development Plan Update
Councillors recently completed their discussions on the latest iteration of the County Development Plan, responding to submissions from the general public. The Council has informed councillors that there is enough land zoned in the County to meet expected population growth, so there is no need to zone additional land. This was the second set of meetings, following the initial consideration of the plan last year. My motion to ensure that the grade-separated junction at Kennelsfort Road remains a priority project was carried unanimously. The most current version of the plan is out for public consultation now, and can be accessedhere. Submissions close on 26 April.
Supporting Palmerstown Tidy Towns
I have been working with Palmerstown Tidy Towns over the past few months to follow up on commitments made to them by South Dublin County Council. I was pleased to learn, following a recent question,that signage onthe R148 gantry will be replaced (following multiple requests). I was also encouraged by progress from the Council in designating asingle point of contact for Tidy Towns groups to facilitate a better response.
Making sure our roads are safe
I washappyto see flexi-bollards installed at the Liffey Valley Roundabout, to enhance traffic safety. I’ve been calling for these for some time, following representations from local residents. Also, despite it taking a few months and follow-ups, I was pleased that theCouncil has listenedto the concerns raised by residents in Liffey Valley Park and will improve signage in the estate. There is still more to do but this is a start.
Ballyowen Park Remediation Works
When IjoinedNorth Clondalkin Running Club for their evening run a few weeks back, I observed the state of flooding in Ballyowen Park. I subsequently raised this with theCouncilwho have advised a solution has been put in place but they are still monitoring it. Ballyowen Park is such a vital park that it is crucial that we keep it in good condition.
South Dublin Tourism and Events Fund is open for applications
TheSouth Dublin Tourism Events and Festival Fundis aimed at organisations and event organisers who plan to hold a public event or festival in South Dublin County and who require financial assistance via public funds to deliver the event or festival. Grants of up to €7500 are available, and you can find further informationhere.
St Loman’s Footbridge to be closed for repairs
There will be atemporary closureof St Loman’s footbridge (near Mount Andrew Court) for 6 weeks from 25 April to facilitate repair and refurbishment works. You can get more informationhere.
Do you require the services of a Peace Commissioner?
I am currently a Peace Commissioner for County Dublin and adjoining counties by the Minister of State for Justice, James Browne TD. Peace Commissioners perform a variety of functions, including taking statutory declarations, and witnessing signatures on documents required by various authorities. If I can assist you as a Peace Commissioner, please let me know.
Job Alert! Community Officers being recruited
South Dublin County Council are recruiting to fill the position of Area Community Officer. The closing date is 14th April and you can find further informationhere.
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