Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

Two-Year Review of Laois County Development Plan 2017- 2023 - Prepared in accordance with Section 15 [2] of the

Planning & Development Act 2000 as amended

Laois Aras an Chontae - 0 -

Tel: 057 8664000 Fax: 057 8622313

Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

CONTENTS

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background 1.2 Changing Context 1.3 Report Structure

SECTION 2: REVIEW OF COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN OBJECTIVES

SECTION 3: REVIEW OF OBJECTIVES FOR TOWNS AND VILLAGES

SECTION 4: PROGRESS ON IMPLEMENTATION OF THE HOUSING STRATEGY

SECTION 5: MONITORING OF ENVIRONMNTAL INDICATORS

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

The Laois County Development Plan 2017 - 2023 was formally adopted by the Elected Members of Laois County Council on the 26th June 2017. It came into effect on the 24th July 2017. There have been no variations to the Plan since its adoption. The Plan is operating in conjunction with the four local area plans of the County, namely the Graiguecullen [in conjunction with ], , and Portarlington [in conjunction with ] Local Area Plans.

Section 15(1) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended states that:

“it shall be the duty of the Planning Authority to take such steps within its powers as may be necessary for securing the objectives of the Development Plan”.

Section 15(2) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended states that:

“the Chief Executive of a planning authority shall, not more than 2 years after the making of a development plan, give a report to the members of the authority on the progress achieved in securing the objectives referred to in subsection (1)”.

In addition, there is a requirement under Section 95 (3) (a) of the Act[s] for the Chief Executive to carry out a review of the progress achieved in implementing the Housing Strategy.

This progress report, submitted to you, the Elected Members, on the 29th July 2019 is in compliance with the requirements of the above mentioned legislation.

It should be noted that this is not a review of the Development Plan per se; rather it is a report on the progress achieved in securing the objectives set out therein. This report will, however, form an intrinsic part in reviewing the County Development Plan, following the making of the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the Eastern and Midland Region, on the 28th June 2019.

1.2 Changing Context

The Laois County Development Plan has been in operation for a period of two years. During these two years, the local economy has continued to grow in line with the national economy.

Since the preparation of the draft Plan and the subsequent making of the Plan by the Elected Members of Laois County Council, there have been a number of significant changes to Government policy at both National and Regional levels. In particular,

. The National Planning Framework (NPF) was launched by Government in February 2018. This updated national planning strategy replaced the National Spatial Strategy of 2002. It

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

places renewed emphasis on sustainable growth in cities and towns in providing for population and economic growth to 2040. Its publication is partnered by the publication of the National Development Plan 2018 – 2027 (Project Ireland 2040), which outlines a programme of investment in infrastructure to support the NPF.

Given its status as a statutory document, Laois County Council is required to implement the policies of the NPF within its forthcoming review of the County Development Plan.

. At the meeting of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA) of 3rd May 2019, the Members of the Regional Assembly agreed to make the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the Eastern and Midland Region, on the 28th June 2019. This is in accordance with section 24(9) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended.

The RSES provides a Spatial Strategy, an Economic Strategy, a Metropolitan Plan, an investment Framework and a Climate Action Strategy for the Eastern and Midland Region. It sets out sixteen Regional Strategic Outcomes which Laois County Council must have regard to in setting the framework for future Development Plans and Local Area Plans.

The Eastern and Midland region covers nine counties containing twelve local authorities namely – Longford, Westmeath, Offaly, Laois, Louth, Meath, Kildare, Wicklow, Fingal, South Dublin and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Councils along with . The region includes 3 subregions or Strategic Planning Areas (SPAs), namely the Midland, Eastern and Dublin.

Further to the making of the RSES for the EMRA area on 28th June 2019, the twelve planning authorities within the Region are now required to restart, review of or vary their City or County Development Plans. This will enable the process of alignment of national, regional and local policy objectives. A review of the Laois County Development Plan will commence in quarter 4 2019.

Since the adoption of the Plan in 2017, the following circulars and guidance have also been issued by the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government (DoECLG) to Planning Authorities regarding their responsibilities in terms of planning. These are as follows:

2017 . Circular PL4/2017 (July 2017) - Further extension of duration of planning permissions for certain developments of 20+ houses; . Circular PL5/2017 (August 2017) - Interim Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Statutory Plans, Renewable Energy and Climate Change and Wind energy Development Guidelines 2006 – Update on review; . Circular PL7/2017 (August 2017) - Vacant Homes Action Plans; . Circular PL8/2017 (September 2017 Implementation of 2014 EIA Directive – Advice on electronic notification requirements; . Circular PL10/2017 (October 2017) - Guidance on Planning Applications for short-term lettings.

2018

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

. Circular PL01/2018 (February 2018) - Amendments to Exempted Development Provisions in the Planning and Development Regulations; . Circular PL02/2018 (March 2018) - Discussion of planning applications at Council meetings; . Circular 03/2018 (July 2018) - Revision of Development Contribution Guidelines in respect of Telecommunications Infrastructure; . Circular PL04/2018 (August 2018) - Planning and Development (Amendment ) Act 2018, Transposition into Planning law of 2014 EIA Directive and Revised EIA Guidelines; . Circular FPS05/2018 (July 2018) - Urban Regeneration and Development Fund – Call for Proposals; . Circular 05/2018 (August 2018) - Transposition into Planning Law of Directive 2014/52/EU amending Directive 2011/92/EU on the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment (the EIA Directive) . Circular FPS 06/2018 (July 2018) – The National Planning Framework – clarification regarding the undertaking of SEA, AA and SFRA in the making of the NPF; . Circular PL06/2018 (October 2018) - Urban and Regeneration Act 2015 (Sec.11) Vacant Site Levy Procedures for Planning Authorities; . Circular PL07/2018 (October 2018) - European Union (Planning and Development) (Environmental Impact Assessment) (No. 2) Regulations 2018 . Circular PL09/2018 (November 2018) - Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2018 (Commencement) Order 2018; . Circular PL10/2018 (November 2018) - Public notification of timeframe for application to An Bord Pleanála for screening determination in respect of local authority or State authority development . Circular PL 11/2018 (November 2018) - Waiving of fee for the making of observations or submissions on planning applications by elected members; . Guidelines (August 2018) - EU (Planning and Development (EIA) Regulations 2018 Guidelines for Planning Authorities and An Bord Pleanála on carrying out of EIA; . Guidelines (2018) - Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments . Guidelines (2018) - Building Height guidelines for Planning Authorities

2019 . Circular PL 01/2019 (January 2019) - Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) Regulations 2019 . Circular PL 02/2019 (March 2019) - Provision of Security provided under section 34(g) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) for the satisfactory completion of developments and application of Irish Water’s Connection Charging Policy . Circular PL 03/2019 (April 2019) - Establishment of the Office of the Planning Regulator; . Circular PL 04/2019 (June 2019) - New Regulations of Short Term Letting under the Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Act 2019 . Circular PL 05/2019 (July 2019) - Regulation of Short Term Letting- New Rent Pressure Zone Designations

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

1.3 Report Structure

This Report comprises five sections.

Section 1 (above) comprises the introduction.

Section 2 assesses the objectives of the Development Plan under each chapter heading in the Plan. This report should be read in conjunction with the written statement, maps and Environmental Report of the Laois County Development Plan 2017-2023. It must be noted that while this review is concerned with the last two years, the Development Plan has a six year life and it therefore follows that some strategic policies and objectives of the Plan have a much longer time horizon. Many of the objectives are ongoing, but where possible, examples of progress to date have been included.

Section 3 looks at each individual town and village within Volume 2 of the Laois County Development Plan and documents the progress and actions that have taken place within each of these since July 2017.

Section 4 comprises a review of the progress achieved in implementing the Housing Strategy.

Section 5 examines the environmental indicators as set out in Table 5.1 of the Strategic Environmental Assessment for the Laois County Development Plan 2017-2023.

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

SECTION 2: ASSESSMENT OF COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN OBJECTIVES Objective Timeframe for Progress to Date Completion

CORE STRATEGY

OBJ 1 To undertake a review of the housing strategy subsequent to the adoption of the Quarter 3 2021 The RSES came into effect on 28th June future Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy [RSES] by the Eastern and Midland 2019. A review of the Housing Strategy Regional Assembly will form part of the County Development Plan review (to commence in Quarter 4 2019)

OBJ 2 To review the Portlaoise Local Area Plan (2012‐2018) and Mountmellick (2012‐2018) . Portlaoise LAP - Completed 2018 and the joint Local Area Plans for Portarlington (2012‐2018) and the Joint Spatial Plan . Mountmellick LAP – Completed 2018 for Greater Urban Area of Carlow / Graiguecullen (2012‐2018) [in association with . Portarlington LAP – Completed 2018 Offaly County Council and Carlow County Council respectively] during the period of the . Greater Urban Area of Carlow / Graiguecullen LAP – Laois County Development Plan 2017‐2023. New residential development in the local Formally extended until 22nd October 2022 area plan areas shall only proceed in an orderly and structured fashion and be in accordance with the overall core strategy as set out in the Laois County Development Plan 2017‐2023

HOUSING HP 1 Facilitate the provision of housing units to sufficiently cater for social and Ongoing See section 3 of this report regarding the specialist housing needs over the plan period, as established in the County Housing Strategy Housing Strategy

HP 2 Ensure that sufficient and suitable land is zoned in the Development Plan for Ongoing Adequate land is zoned within the County residential use to meet the requirements of the Housing Strategy and to Development Plan and Local Area Plans. A ensure that a scarcity of such land does not occur at any time during the County Development review of the Housing Strategy will form part period of the Development Plan and ensure that any plan or project Plan review to be of the County Development Plan review (to

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

associated with the provision of new housing is subject to Appropriate completed by Quarter commence in Quarter 4 2019) Assessment Screening in compliance with the Habitats Directive, and 3 2021 subsequent assessment as required The Planning Department undertakes Appropriate Assessment screening for each plan and project

HP 3 Ensure a choice of house types and sizes in appropriate locations to cater for Ongoing Ongoing implementation through pre- all categories of households planning discussions, Development Management, Part VIII’s in consultation with the Housing Department and Approved Housing Bodies

HP 4 Provision of social and specialist housing shall be progressed through Ongoing Ongoing implementation – there are partnership working with voluntary and co‐operative housing organisations, currently in excess of 200 units in the pipeline the Health Service Executive, as well as through agreements with private for delivery through Approved Housing developers Bodies and Part V agreements.

HP 5 In the interest of counteracting undue social segregation, the Laois County Ongoing Ongoing implementation - See section 3 of Council will ensure that an appropriate balance between incomes, social, this report regarding the Housing Strategy specialist and private (including private rented) housing is provided within communities. Decisions on leasing take up, RAS and on Part V percentage ratios on specific sites will be based on the existing housing profile and needs of the area

HP 6 It is the policy of the planning authority to reserve 10% of all lands being Ongoing Ongoing Implementation through developed in the urban area for residential use over the plan period for the Development Management in conjunction purpose of addressing the requirement for social housing under Part V with the Housing Section

Currently, we have agreements prepared for 40 Part V units. 24 of these units have a final Part V Agreement signed and sealed.

HP 7 As outlined above, percentage reservation for Part V shall be decided on the Ongoing Ongoing implementation basis of individual site assessment. Criteria to be taken into account will

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

include the type and location of the housing units required by the planning authority at a given time, as defined by the priority housing list by the Housing Section and the existing mix of housing classes in the area

HP 8 Subject to the availability of resources, assess all local authority housing Ongoing There is currently a Regeneration Programme schemes in the county and determine if any would benefit from a in place. Works will be carried out in: regeneration plan to address problems associated with the physical design - Hepburn Court and layout, such as lack of natural surveillance, piecemeal provision of open - O’Moore Place space, excess provision of open space, lack of services and facilities, lack of - The Convent Lands permeability, isolation and peripherality - The old County Hotel on Main Street

Works are due to commence in Hepburn Court and O’Moore Place in July 2019.

The above proposals are going through the planning application process.

HP 9 Subject to the availability of resources, ensure that all houses in the ownership Ongoing This is currently under review and will be of the Local Authority, which are over 20 years old, are assessed for remedial subject to resources, both physical and and/ or refurbishment works financial

HP 10 Explore mechanisms to address the issue of incomplete developments Ongoing The taking in charge of estates traditionally through a variety of mechanisms including dialogue with developers, occurred when a request was received from existing/adjoining residents, financial institutions, NAMA, State and Semi‐State the developer of the estate and/or the Agencies owners of the houses within the estate. However, in more recent years, where the developer has failed to complete the estate, Laois County Council has intervened to complete the estate and this work, where possible, is funded from the bond.

Seven estates taken in charge in 2017: 1. Jessop Court, Hynds Square, 2. Ossory Court, Borris-in-Ossory, 3. Castlegate, Portarlington,

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

4. The Village, 5. Bellingham Area 1 Phase II, 6. Glenbrook, Ballyroan, 7. Ard Erin, ,

Eleven estates taken in charge in 2018: 1. Rahin Wood, , 2. The Tiles , 3. Cross of Newtown,Ballyroan, 4. Wallis Street Mountrath, 5. Manor Grove, Mountemellick, 6. Spindlewood, Graiguecullen, 7. College Ave, Mountmellick, 8. Corrig Glen, Portarlington, 9. Mill Court Borris-in-Ossory, 10. Killeen Gardens, Killeen, 11. Railway Mews, Portarlington

To date, ten estates have been taken in charge in 2019: 1. Westlands, Portlaoise 2. Summerhill, Portlaoise 3. Woodgrove/Woodgrove Lawns, Portlaoise 4. Fruithill Manor, Graiguecullen 5. Springhill Court, Graiguecullen 6. Cluinin, Mountrath 7. Knockiel Drive, 8. Davitt Court, Mountmellick 9. Doireann Alainn 10. Mill Lane, Mountrath

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

HP 11 Encourage developers of privately owned estates, where there are high levels Ongoing The Housing Department now has a full time of vacancy, to consider releasing units under the Social Leasing Programme Vacant Homes Officer who liaises with developers in this regard

HP 12 Promote estate management in all schemes across the county in order to Ongoing Ongoing support for Residents Associations support the formation of sustainable communities from the Environment Section

The Council has a Tenants Liaison Officer who supports Local Authority residents

HP 13 Encourage residential use of vacant upper storey space over commercial Ongoing Ongoing implementation through premises on the main thoroughfares of the urban centres Development Management. This is supported by recent changes to Exempted Development. One application has been received, relating to a site in Portlaoise town

HP 14 Encourage the conversion of suitably located derelict properties and disused Ongoing Ongoing implementation through Council buildings such as former schools to residential use and in so doing, provide acquisitions, Development Management and additional residential units in areas suitable and attractive for such application of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 e.g. development Planning permission granted at the former Vocational School in (a Protected Structure on the Derelict Site Register), to provide nine residential units (Planning application ref 18/755 relates).

SOCIAL, COMMUNITY AND RECREATIONAL STRATEGY

SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 1 Develop a process for the implementation of the Barcelona Declaration so as to ensure Ongoing In 2018, the following Walkabilty its effective implementation across the county in both existing services and new Audits were carried out under the age developments friendly programme in: . Abbeyleix . Portlaoise Park . Mountmellick . Portarlington

Any identified issues were addressed

A Walkabilty Audit is to be carried out in Mountrath in summer 2019

Age friendly libraries under way

12 Age friendly parking spaces were secured in 2017/2018

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 2 Ensure that all new development shall be designed in order to allow for universal Ongoing Ongoing implementation through access for all people Building Control

OBJ 3 Support the Local Community Development Committee in the delivery of the Ongoing A progress report relating to the Local objectives in the Local Economic and Community Plan 2016 ‐ 2021 (LECP) with regard Economic and Community Plan to the provision of and access to sustainable community services and facilities 2016 ‐ 2021 was carried out in 2018

A number of projects identified within the LECP are progressing, including:

- Funding secured under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), in respect of the development of a new Cultural Quarter which will centre on this historically significant area of the original Portlaoise settlement. The regenerated Fitzmaurice Place forms part of this and was formally opened on Friday 28th June

The Strategic Policy Commitee is updated every quarter on economic activity

OBJ 4 Liaise with Community & Enterprise Section in relation to any development proposal Ongoing Ongoing implementation, e.g: that is likely to have a significant impact on community development in the county and - The SVT (, , ensure that all new development shall be designed in order to allow for universal ) Community Sports Hub access for all people was established in 2017. These communities work together to develop better sport and physical activity opportunities for their people - Planning permission granted for demolition works and for the

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

erection of a community use facility comprising of meeting rooms and related back up spaces, attached and internally connected to the Former Methodist Chapel/ICA Hall (RPS No.164) and associated site works at Patrick St, Durrow. Planning application reference 18/639 relates.

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 5 Seek to investigate the feasibility of developing a Greenway Network throughout Ongoing Application submitted to Department , and linking County Laois to regional and national Greenway Networks of Rural and Community Development under Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme for a technical feasibility study of Greenway Section Abbeyleix to Portarlington

OBJ 6 Explore the potential for rural recreational tourism in conjunction with Tourism bodies, Ongoing Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Waterways Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, National Trails Office and National Parks and Wildlife Schemes: to diversify the range of tourist experience and extend the tourist season - 2017 – Successful application for Slieve Bloom Branding - 2019 – Pending application for Laois Trails Branding - Planning permission granted for a blueway (the Canal element between Killinure to south east of Monasterevin and between Bawn to south of Vicarstown). Planning application reference 17/37 relates.

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES FOR LEISURE FACILITIES OBJ 1 Investigate the feasibility, subject to compliance with the Habitats and Birds Directives Feasibility studies Mountain bike trail and associated of the development of a National Cycling Trail Centre in the Slieve Blooms carried out prior to infrastructure granted planning PL.16/125 permission under PL.16/125. First section opened in January 2019 and further works are ongoing.

OBJ 2 Support the development of floodlighting and fencing of grass pitch, extension to Ongoing Skatepark Equipment relocated to sports hall, skatepark at Portlaoise Leisure Centre Portlaoise Leisure Centre July 2017

Floodlighting/Fencing not progressing - Funding re-allocated to building

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

upgrade.

Needs analysis study of Indoor Sports facilities for Portlaoise undertaken in 2019

OBJ 3 Support the development of a national natural playground in Emo Under review The OPW is carrying out works to enable natural play activities for children within the Emo Court woodlands

OBJ 4 Support the development of village playgrounds as appropriate Ongoing No additional playgrounds since July 2017. However, plans are being developed with community groups in & Borris-is-Ossory

OBJ 5 Support the development of Local Authority Housing Recreational Areas as appropriate Ongoing There is ongoing facility maintenance at Doonane Estate and Kiln Lane Estate. Kiln Lane Residents Association won an IPB Pride of Place Award in 2017

Draft Bylaws Prepared 2018

OBJ 6 Support the development of an outdoor adventure centre at Portarlington Leisure Ongoing discussions Funding sourced for outdoor climbing Centre wall

Ongoing discussions with Waterways Ireland regarding location of a jetty

Funding secured under Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme 2018 for a walking route from People’s Park to Lee Castle in Portarlington

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 7 Support the development and redevelopment of Slí na Sláinte walking routes in towns Slí na Sláinte walking - Upgraded Slí in Portlaoise and and villages routes ongoing Mountmellick in 2018 across the county - New Slí established in Portarlington in 2018

- Ballyroan Slí upgraded in 2019

- New Slí established in Mountrath in June 2019

- New Slí expected in Borris-in- Ossory in September 2019

- Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme Application submitted for Stradbally upgrade in 2019

OBJ 8 Support the ongoing development of an athletic track, including provision of dressing Ongoing Ongoing discussions with Laois and rooms and tartan resurface in Portlaoise Offaly Education and Training Board & local Athletic Bodies to identify funding

Needs analysis study of Indoor Sports facilities for Portlaoise undertaken in 2019

OBJ 9 Work with other state agencies in the provision of Youth Café facilities in the main Completed Temporary Mountrath Youth Facility population centres part-funded under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2017

OBJ Investigate the feasibility, subject to compliance with the Habitats and Birds Directives Ongoing Ongoing re-routing & development of 10 of further upgrading to the Slieve Bloom Walks routes via Laois Offaly Outdoor Recreation Partnership in conjunction with the National Parks and Wildlife

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

Service OBJ Investigate the feasibility, subject to compliance with the Habitats and Birds Directives Ongoing A planning application to develop a 11 of a Blueway (4.5k.m.) between Woodenbridge to Castledurrow Blueway along the River Erkina through the townlands of Castle Durrow Demesne, Knockanoran, Ballygauge Beg, Derreen and Carrowreagh, Ballygarvin Glebe, Ballyboodin, Kyletilloge, Braccas, Oldglass and Kilnaseer is currently being considered by the Planning Authority (PL 19/337).

The proposed development consists of the construction of a floating pontoon at Castle Durrow Demesne, a foot bridge on the River Goul at its confluence with the River Erkina, a car park at the Wooden Bridge, access steps at Boson Bridge, 3 no. information signs, partial removal of in river silt deposits, stockpiling of silt on adjacent lands, lopping of overhanging tree branches as necessary and all associated ancillary works.

OBJ Investigate the feasibility, subject to compliance with the Habitats and Birds Directives Under review No progress to date 12 of a Blueway development between Castle town to Durrow (linking the River Nore)

OBJ Investigate the feasibility, subject to compliance with the Habitats and Birds Planning application ref 17/37 relates. This application 13 Directives of a Blueway development proposed a multi-use shared leisure route (Blueway), approximately 115km in length, on the existing navigation towpath, which is a national waymarked way. The route commences in Lowtown, Co. Kildare, passes through Co. Laois and finishes in St. Mullins, Co. Carlow. Approximately 16km of the route is in Co. Laois, 47km is in Co. Kildare and 52km is in Co. Carlow.

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

The Council’s decision to grant PP was appealed to An Bord Pleanala (ABP) who made a decision to grant PP for the Canal element between Killinure to south east of Monasterevin and between Bawn to south of Vicarstown. The element between Crossneen to the south of Carlow town and at Mortarstown Lower was refused by ABP.

The entire route in Carlow was refused by ABP.

In Kildare, the route from Lowtown to Athy was granted PP. The section from Athy to Crossneen on the River Barrow was refused PP.

OBJ Upgrade of existing parks infrastructure as necessary Ongoing Green Flag Award in 2017 and 2018 for 14 Páirc an Phobail, Portlaoise

Green Flag Award in 2018 for People’s Park Portarlington

Ongoing development in line with Green Flag Recommendations at both Parks

Funding secured under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2018 for re- development of People’s Park Portarlington

ECONOMIC DEVEOPMENT

HOME BASED ECONOMIC ACTIVITY ECN 17 Seek to provide opportunities for highly‐skilled outbound commuters to work locally The Business Support Unit (BSU) are working on an ongoing

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

through local employment opportunities, tourism opportunities, the development of basis to promote the Connect2Laois brand to attract an e‐working centre or working‐from‐home arrangements facilitated by high‐speed investment to Laois and provide additional employment broadband in the interests of sustainable economic development, smarter travel and opportunities in the County quality of life considerations Since 2017, the BSU has supported four new smart working hubs in Laois to accommodate remote working. - Portarlington Enterprise Centre Innovation Hub - Webmill, Mountmellick - Bloom HQ, Mountrath - Heritage House, Abbeyleix (not yet completed)

Further hub like developments are being considered for Rathdowney and .

There are works planned by Portlaoise Enterprise Centre to extend the offering.

Vision 85 has recently been set up in Clonminam Business Park in Portlaoise. This is a co-working hub that facilitates a variety of office spaces, hot desks, work space and conference rooms.

ECN 18 Support community initiatives to foster stronger engagement between commuters Ongoing The BSU are working on an ongoing and their local towns and villages. basis with the local enterprise hubs to develop smart/co-working environments to encourage commuters to work locally e.g.

- The BSU carried out a commuter survey to specifically identify the Laois commuters skill sets to attract new investment to the County

- Liaising with the Carlow Institute of Technology to further develop

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

these hubs and use them as a catalyst to develop rural economies

RETAIL POLICIES AND OBJECTIVES OBJ 1 Ensure that County Laois possesses a clear policy framework that will inform both the Quarter 3 2021 A Retail Strategy currently forms part conception and assessment of retail development proposals and help to guarantee of the Laois County Development Plan. that the strategic and local convenience and comparison retailing needs of the county A review of this Strategy will form part are met of the County Development Plan review. Review to commence in Quarter 4 2019.

OBJ 2 Ensure the orderly development of future retail developments in County Laois to keep Quarter 3 2021 As above the retail strategy under review, having regard to the changes in the retail sector and have regard to any such review in determining applications for retail development

OBJ 3 Maintain, and where possible, enhance the existing competitiveness of the county’s Ongoing Ongoing implementation through main centres by facilitating the development of additional retail floorspace where it Development Management can be clearly established that such development will result in tangible improvements (application of the Retail Strategy and to the retail offering of the county Retail planning policies)

Retail Excellence Ireland have engaged with the BSU in relation to promoting retail space within Portlaoise

OBJ 4 Acknowledge the importance of the principal, key service and service towns in Ongoing Ongoing implementation through providing a wide range of both convenience and comparison and visitor shopping in Development Management locations close to centres of population and larger, more remote retail hinterlands (application of the Retail Strategy)

The Portlaoise Town Team was established in 2017 to promote Town Centre renewal in Portlaoise

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 5 Acknowledge the importance of local service towns, villages and rural serviced Ongoing Ongoing implementation settlements and hinterlands in suburban and rural locations in meeting local and visitors hopping needs

OBJ 6 Encourage the improvement to the designs of local retail centres in suburban areas Ongoing Ongoing implementation through and rural villages, including the provision of facilities in the public realm Development Management, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Shop Front Grant Scheme and application of the Derelict Sites Act 1990

Continuing support for local Tidy Town Groups in improving local centres, e.g. environmental improvements, shopfront enhancement, painting scheme for Portaoise Bridge Street, Public Realm Enhancement e.g. Fitzmaurice Place redesign Portlaosie, Completion of the Durrow Greens Project with resurfacing works and public lighting improvements, etc

OBJ 7 Encourage reductions in floorspace vacancy, taking account of suitability, Ongoing Ongoing implementation through obsolescence, and the identification of alternative uses for existing vacant floorspace Development Management within the urban centres of the county Business Incentive Scheme introduced to encourage the use of vacant commercial premises within designated areas of Portlaoise, Mountmellick, Mountrath, Abbeyleix, Rathdowney (Rathdowney Outlet included) & Portarlington over a three year period. The intent of the scheme is to provide a grant incentive for new businesses to locate in premises that have been vacant for a period

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

exceeding six months and to encourage diversity of retail opportunities within a designated area.

An Occupancy Survey was carried out by Portlaoise Town Team in 2017 to gauge vacancy levels in Portlaoise Town Centre. This survey is now being updated to track changes in use and vacancy levels. – Q3 2019

OBJ 8 Encourage and facilitate the reuse and regeneration of derelict sites and buildings for Ongoing Ongoing implementation through retail uses with due cognisance to the sequential approach as indicated in the regional Development Management planning guidelines (application of the Retail Strategy) and application of the Derelict Sites Act 1990

OBJ 9 Facilitate the regeneration of areas with scope for improvement or where there may Ongoing cross-departmental initiatives be a high level of vacancy, obsolescence or emerging issues of dereliction, subject to the provisions of the Sequential Test As above, the Business Incentive Scheme was introduced to encourage the use of vacant commercial premises within designated areas of Portlaoise, Mountmellick, Mountrath, Abbeyleix, Rathdowney (Rathdowney Outlet included) & Portarlington.

An Occupancy Survey was carried out in 2017 to gauge vacancy levels in Portlaoise Town Centre. This survey is now being updated to track changes in use and vacancy levels – Q3 2019.

The BSU launched a façade enhancement scheme in 2018 which will target all units (commercial and residential) in Lower Main Street Portlaoise and Peppers Lane. This work will serve to enhance this section of town and will be completed before the end of 2019

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 10 Address the issue of retail expenditure leakage out of the county to competing The Business & Economic Development Department through centres by looking to develop the retail offering in the county within key retail sectors the Portlaoise Town Team (est. 2017) where this leakage occurs have set the “Marketing & Promotion of Portlaoise as a retail location” as one of the key objectives of the Portlaoise Town team plan. Laois County Council and the Town Team have contacted Retail Excellence Ireland and provided them with information as regards the business incentive schemes available to retailers in Laois with the aim of attracting key retailers to the County.

The BSU have also attended the Retail Excellence Ireland Annual Event to meet retail expanders with the view of encouraging them to locate in Portlaoise.

The Portlaoise Town Team action plan contains a number of objectives all designed to ensure a good retail offering in the town and prevent retail leakage outside of the county.

OBJ 11 Engage with the relevant stakeholders and incentivise to ensure that the The Portlaoise Town Team is made up of stakeholders from environmental attractiveness of town/local centres is enhanced business and retail, educators, age action, heritage, tourism, Gardai, charities, community groups, youth groups, local authority and elected representatives. The team have developed an Action Plan for 2019-2021 with the aim of improving the physical, economic, social & cultural environments to provide a town with a thriving local economy in tandem with a good quality of life.

The Business and Economic Development Department incentivises the promotion of environmental attractiveness in town/village centres through the Facade Enhancement Scheme and the Shop Front improvement scheme

Laois County Council Environment Section engage with all local Tidy Towns groups to help invest in their future and ensure continued growth and development.Assistance is given to the

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

groups in the form of the Tidy Towns Grants, Summer Wheelie Bin Scheme, participation in Clean Up Laois Week, the Laois Federation of Tidy Towns Competition and Awards. The Environment Section also offers assistance in the form of advice or referral to the most appropriate source of information. Workshops are also held and available in relation to composting and waste minimisation. Among the National Tidy Towns winners in 2018 were:

. Gold Medal: Abbeyleix . Silver Medal: Portlaoise . Bronze Medal: , Castletown, . Endeavour Award: Mountmellick

Portlaoise came 4th out of 40 towns / cities in the Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) League, with An Taisce deeming it to be cleaner than European Norms

LAND BASED / RESOURCE BASED ECONOMIC POLICIES OBJ 12 Plan and prepare for the future use of large industrial peatland sites when peat Unknown Discussions are ongoing with Bord na harvesting finishes in conjunction with NPWS, Coillte and ESB/Bord na Mona and Mona in relation to their land banks other stakeholders and operations

INFRASTRUCTURE

THE NATIONAL CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGY 2007 - 2012 Trans 1 Support the sustainable transport principles outlined in Smarter Travel: A Ongoing Ongoing implementation Sustainable Transport Future (Department of Transport, 2009) The Creation of a Low Carbon Town Centre is a shared vision of the Portlaoise Strategy For A Better Town

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

Centre ‘2040 and Beyond’. The principles of sustainable transport are also considered therein.

Sustainable transport principles are addressed within the J17 National Enterprise Park Masterplan (2018)

Trans 2 Upgrade and improve the hierarchy of road transportation links between towns and Ongoing See Priority Road Projects below villages to cater for existing trip generation numbers and patterns and provide for anticipated trip generation numbers and patterns as envisaged by the settlement strategy and economic development strategy

Trans 3 Where roads are being improved and upgraded the opportunity will be taken where Ongoing Ongoing implementation possible to address inadequate existing mitigation measures or impeded passage, for example the inclusion of mammal underpasses or dry ledges where there is poor culvert design)

Trans 4 To integrate land use policies and transportation in a manner which reduces Ongoing Ongoing implementation through reliance on car based travel and promotes more sustainable transport choices Development Management (application of the Zoning objectives)

Trans 5 To guide development to ensure that it is positioned in a location which minimizes Ongoing Ongoing implementation through the need to travel and co‐ ordinates particular land uses with their accessibility Development Management requirements (application of the Zoning objectives)

Trans 6 Ensure that all proposed plans or projects relating to transportation (including Ongoing Ongoing implementation walking, cycling, rail, bus and roads) and any associated improvement works, individually or in combination with other plans or projects, are subject to Appropriate Assessment Screening to ensure there are no likely significant effects on the integrity (defined by the structure and function) of any Natura 2000 site(s) and that the requirements of Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the EU Habitats Directive are fully satisfied. Where the plan or project is likely to have a significant effect on a Natura 2000 site, or there is uncertainty with regard to effects, it shall be subject to Appropriate Assessment. The plan or project will proceed only after it has been

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site or where in the absence of alternative solutions, the project is deemed imperative for reasons of overriding public interest, all in accordance with the provisions of Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the EU Habitats Directive

PRIORITY ROAD PROJECTS OBJ 1 Portlaoise Southern Orbital Route Due to be completed Construction is ongoing in Q4 2019

OBJ 2 M7 Junction 17 Off Ramp at Togher National Enterprise Park, Portlaoise Incorporated into Incorporated into objective 3 below. objective 3 below The J17 National Enterprise Park Masterplan was finalised in 2018 in conjunction with Transport Infrastructure Ireland

OBJ 3 Togher, Portlaoise Link Road Phase 2 Due to commence in Design Stage ongoing Q4 2019

OBJ 4 N80 Mountmellick Road, Portlaoise Improvements Ongoing Surface improvements ongoing

OBJ 5 R445 Mountrath Road, Portlaoise Improvements Design to be Rockview roundabout design ongoing completed in Q3 2019

Preliminary design Part 8 complete for Rockview to complete, Market Square cyclelane construction pending funding

OBJ 6 Portarlington Relief Road Unknown Not yet commenced

OBJ 7 Carlow Northern Relief Road Extension Design stage to S85 agreed. Carlow County Council commence acting as lead

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 8 Rathdowney Traffic Improvements Phase 2 Unknown No progress to date

OBJ 9 M7/M8 Interconnector Unknown Transport Infrastructure Ireland are the implementation body

OBJ 10 N80 including Mountmellick By‐pass and Maidenhead Re‐alignment Consultant to be N80 Mountmellick Relief Road – appointed June 2019 Tenders received for feasibility study

To commence Q3 N80 Maidenhead realignment 2019 construction - Contractors to be appointed July 2019

OBJ 11 Improvements to N77 Ongoing as funding Improvements ongoing to surface and becomes available safety schemes

OBJ 12 Improvements to N78 Ongoing as funding Improvements ongoing to surface and becomes available safety schemes

OBJ 13 Interurban Cycle facilities on former National Routes Unknown No progress to date

OBJ 14 Ongoing Bridge Maintenance Completing upgrade 200k funding available annually works as funding becomes available

Laois walking and cycling strategy OBJ 1 Designate and work towards the delivery of strategic cycling links in Laois on an Works to commence Funding from the Urban Regeneration on‐road or off‐road basis 2020 Development Fund for the provision of cycleways in Portlaoise in 2019/2020

OBJ 2 Tie‐into major walking and cycling projects being undertaken by key stakeholders in Ongoing Discussions with stakeholders such as Laois Coilte, Bord na Mona and Waterways Ireland in relation to the future

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

proposals are ongoing to look at the achievement of greenway / blueway developments in the county

OBJ 3 Make Laois Towns more pedestrian and cycle‐friendly Ongoing Portlaoise Southern Circular Road under construction. This will include a 2m cycle lane and will encourage cycling into the town centre - Due to be completed in Q3 2019

This objective has been strengthened by the Portlaoise Local Area Plan 2018 which seeks to improve and provide pedestrian linkages, cycle networks and permeability including blueways and greenways throughout the town, in particular along the along the River Triogue

OBJ 4 Promote Laois as a walking and cycling destination to domestic and overseas visitors Ongoing Slieve Bloom Cycle Trail opened in development of the January 2019 and works are ongoing 100km trail The annual Laois Walks Festival continues. It is now in its 18th year.

In 2017, there were 28 walks in 28 locations ranging from 5k to 14km and over 1872 walkers participating.

OBJ 5 Establish Walking and Cycling Committee to drive the inter‐agency implementation Onhoing Ongoing implementation through: of this Strategy - The Slieve bloom walks partnership (also deals with cycling) - The Laois walks committee

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 6 Ensure the implementation of this Strategy is subject to robust environmental Ongoing Ongoing liaison with Environment management measures and assessment, as appropriate Department for works to ensure correct management and assessment is in place

OBJ 7 Support the principle of delivering a cycling link between the towns of Unknown No progress to date A.1 Tullamore – Mountmellick A.2 Mountmellick ‐ Portlaoise A.3 Portlaoise ‐ Stradbally A.4 Stradbally ‐ Graiguecullen/Carlow Routing any link away from the N80 and tying into the Barrow Way

OBJ 8 Seek the establishment of cycle links between the towns of Unknown No progress to date B1. Portlaoise, Kildare Town, Newbridge and Naas B2. Portlaoise and Athy B3. Portlaoise and Kilkenny via Abbeyleix and Durrow

OBJ 9 Support the development of on‐road cycle lanes to link towns and villages located Unknown No progress to date along the R445 & R639 and if permitted proceed with works C1. Portlaoise – Monasterevin C2. Borris‐in‐Ossory – Roscrea C3. Durrow – Cullahill

PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY OBJECTIVES PORTLAOISE PWS OBJ 1 Complete the Upgrade to the Disinfection System and extend Manganese Additional 3 Disinfection System Upgraded. Treatment at the Kilminchy Water Treatment Plant to ensure that the development boreholes to be of new production boreholes to meet increased demand is not limited by the brought into Increased capacity for Manganese capacity of the Water Treatment Plant production by Treatment not required. Quarter 4 2019

OBJ 2 Develop new borehole sources and augment storage at Kilminchy WTP Quarter 4 2019 Two new boreholes in Coolbanagher to be brought into production

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 3 Complete Roll‐Out of new PLCs on all boreholes and connect plant and boreholes to Complete Complete county‐wide SCADA

OBJ 4 Complete Portlaoise Evidence Based Cryptosporidium Risk Assessment 2015 Complete Complete

OBJ 5 Ensure that the Portlaoise Water Supply Improvement scheme is included in future Quarter 4 2019 The above mentioned 3 new boreholes Irish Water Capital Investment Programme’s as a project to meet increased demand in Collbanagher will ensure an within Portlaoise adequate water supply to Portlaoise beyond the current the development plan

PORTARLINTON PWS OBJ 6 Ensure that the Water Supply Improvement planned for La Bergerie is completed Completed Completed

OBJ 7 Additional storage is provided to ensure that there is 28 hrs emergency backup Unknown Still in planning stage including the requirement on the Offaly side of Portarlington

OBJ 8 Network Model to be completed (which will include the and Unknown Still in planning stage areas) to advance the design Laois County Development Plan 2017‐2023 Page 113 of 216 and planning of necessary network improvements

DURROW 2 PWS AND BALLINAKILL 2 PWS FERMOYLE GROUNDWATER SOURCE OBJ 9 Complete drilling of exploratory borehole. Depending upon on results on aquifer New production BH Exploratory borehole has been safe yield, Water Chemistry in particular Nitrates and Water Quality, if successful, to to be drilled in constructed develop a new production borehole in accordance with EPA DW Advice Note 14 Quarter 3 2019 (2013) and bring into production

OBJ 10 Based on estimated safe yield, investigate the potential development of a Regional 2020 Is dependent on the results obtained scheme with the potential to replace Ballinakill 1 PWS (Cloghogue), Ballinakill 2 on flow and water quality PWS, Durrow 1 PWS (Convent) and Durrow 2 PWS

PROJECTS COUNTY‐WIDE

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 11 Laois Water Conservation Stage 3 – Replacement of 8.5km of leaking water mains Completed Completed and additional mains replaced

PROGRAMMES COUNTY‐WIDE OBJ 12 Review and amend Laois Source Protection Scheme and review of Cryptos poridium Completed Completed Risk Assessments

OBJ 13 Complete survey of all Borehole sources in Laois and implement plan to bring all Unknown Survey completed – programme for boreholes to the standard required under the EPA’s DW Advice Note 14 (2013) upgrades still at planning stage.

OBJ 14 Upgrade to Disinfection systems as required 2020 Surveys of all systems completed and upgrades about to commence

OBJ 15 Water Conservation: Proceed to validate District Metering Areas (DMAs) by Completed District Metering Areas (DMAs) now completing repairs/ replacement of 200 defective boundary Sluice Valves and fully operational and validated engagement in National Planned Active Leakage Detection and Find & Fix and Pressure Management

OBJ 16 Complete Roll‐out of SCADA to all Water Supply Infrastructure as required. Completed Completed

OBJ 17 Progress the Taking in Charge (TIC) of Public Group Water Schemes in accordance Unknown 8 schemes taken in charge to date. with IW/LA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to be rolled out nationally These are: following successful Pilot Programme. 2017 - The Island GWS, Abbeyleix - Pallas Big GWS, Pallas, Portlaoise

2018 - 1 GWS - Ballyadams 2 GWS - Monascreeban GWS - Ballycarnan GWS

2019

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

- Moyanna GWS - Ballyrider GWS

OBJ 18 Progress the TIC of Private Estates connected to the Public Water Infrastructure in Ongoing Ongoing accordance with the IW/LA TIC of Private Estates (MoU)

OBJ 19 Service Reservoir Refurbishment Programme Ongoing Ongoing

OBJ 20 Engage with IW in the roll‐out of its National Sludge Management Progammme Ongoing Ongoing

OBJ 21 Engage with IW to update the data in the IW Geographical Information System Ongoing Ongoing

OBJ 22 It is the objective of the Council to work with Irish Water to facilitate the timely Ongoing Ongoing delivery of ongoing and future upgrades of water supply and wastewater services to meet the future needs of the County and the Region.

PUBLIC WASTEWATER OBJECTIVES PORTLAOISE WASTEWATER AGGLOMERATION OBJ 1 Complete the IW Pilot Drainage Area Plan (DAP) and subject to funding and 2020 Drainage Area Plan completed in resources, based on the results of this pilot and risk assessments to implement Portlaoise – works to deal with areas of more complete monitoring of Section 16 Discharge Licences to reduce the volume concern progressing and concentration of effluent load being discharged to the public sewer thus freeing up capacity in the WWtW which is operated by Aecom on as a Design, Build and Operate model;

OBJ 2 Repair damaged or substandard sewers to relieve blockages in the ne twork Ongoing Ongoing

OBJ 3 Improve Storm Water Management at the WWtW to relieve surcharging in the Completed Improve Storm Water Management network in the vicinity of the Mountmellick Road; has been carried out in Portlaoise wastewater treatment works

OBJ 4 Ensure that any required upgrades to the Portlaoise Wastewater treatment Plant is 2022 Feasibility Report has been completed.

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

included in future Iris h Water Capital Investment Programme’s as a project to meet increased demand within Portlaoise

PORTARLINTON WASTEWATER AGGLOMERATION OBJ 5 Complete the Advanced Contract for Portarlington Wastewater Treatment Works Completed Completed WWtWs

OBJ 6 Complete the review of the Portarlington Network Model and plan for Unknown Ongoing improvements as required

MOUNTMELLICK WASTEWATER AGGLOMERATION OBJ 7 Complete the upgrade planned to the Wastewater Treatment plant. Completed Completed

OBJ 8 Complete the review of the Mountmellick Network Model and plan for Unknown Ongoing improvements as required

CASTLETOWN WASTEWATER AGGLOMERATION OBJ 9 Replace the Castletown WWtW by providing new pumping station in Castle town Completed Proposed scheme has been deferred. and pump effluent to discharge into the Mountrath System and from there to be Phase 1 has seen upgraded to treated at the Mountrath WWTW opera ted by Response Engineering under a DBO sequencing batch reactor and inlet Contract works and SCADA in place. Plant is now compliant with Licence

PROJECTS COUNTY‐WIDE OBJ 10 Complete the roll‐out of Flow Monitoring and Composite Samplers on all licensed Completed Completed plants

OBJ 11 Improve Inlet works including screens at Borris‐in‐Ossory WWtW, Ballyroan WWtW, 2020 All Complete except Newtown The Swan WWtW and Newtown‐Doonane WWtW Doonane – timeframe

PROGRAMMES COUNTY‐WIDE OBJ 12 Complete on a Risk Assessment Basis the roll‐out of DAPs across the Networks Unknown In planning within the 14 Licensed agglomerations

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 13 Engage with IW in the roll‐out of its National Sludge Management Progammme Ongoing Ongoing

OBJ 14 Engage IW in the roll‐out of improvements to WWtWs in those plants with COAs 2021 National Certificates of Authorisation (COAs) NCAP programme - preliminary reports for 5 plants completed

OBJ 15 Provide improved storm water storage Unknown Limited progress in this area to date

OBJ 16 On a priority basis, roll‐out upgrades to pumping stations Ongoing Ongoing in conjunction to Health and Safety infrastructural improvements

OBJ 17 Complete Roll‐out of SCADA across all Wastewater Infrastructure as required 2020 2 new plants completed and 5 in progress

OBJ 18 Engage with IW to update the data in the IW Geographical Information System Ongoing Ongoing

SURFACE WATER, DRAINAGE AND FLOODING FD 01 Undertake a review [and amendment if necessary] of the Strategic Flood Risk Quarter 3 2021 This is to be reviewed as part of the Assessment for County Laois following the publication of the flood mapping which is County Development Plan review, to being produced as part of the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management commence in Quarter 4 2019. (CFRAM) Studies by the OPW. Individual flood risk management projects have taken place following the publication of the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Studies by the OPW.

ENERGY AND COMMUNICATIONS OBJ 1 Prepare a Renewable Energy Strategy for County Laois during the lifetime of the Quarter 2 2020 Tendering process commenced in June Plan 2019. Expected to commission consultants in July 2019.

OBJ 2 Support the Midlands Energy Agency in the promotion of energy efficiency Unknown Awaiting resources initiatives within the county

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OBJ 3 Facilitate the achievement of a secure and efficient energy supply and storage for Ongoing Ongoing implementation through County Laois Development Management, e.g. planning permission granted for a 141.4ha photovoltaic solar farm at Bigbog, Coolnabacky, Esker, Money Lower and Loughteeog, Stradbally (PL 17/532)

OBJ 4 Promote County Laois as a low carbon county as a means of attracting inward Ongoing Portlaoise secured funding from the investment and to facilitate the development of energy sources which will achieve Urban Regeneration Development low carbon outputs Fund 2019 in respect of initiatives which will see Portlaoise becoming the first Low Carbon town in Ireland

Laois County Council has prepared a draft Local Authority Climate Change Adaptation Strategy in accordance with the provisions of The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2015 and the National Adaptation Framework (NAF), 2018. This is currently on display, and submissions or observations can be made until 31st July 2019

A low carbon implementation group has been established

OBJ 5 Co‐operate and liaise with statutory and other energy providers in relation to power Quarter 2 2020 To be considered as part of the Local generation in order to ensure adequate power capacity for the future needs of the Authority Renewable Energy Strategy. county Tendering process commenced in June 2019

OBJ 6 Protect areas of recognised landscape importance and significant landscape views Ongoing Ongoing implementation through

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

from construction of large scale visually intrusive energy transmission Development Management and infrastructure, alternative routing or transmission methods shall be used in this Planning Enforcement instance

OBJ 7 To facilitate a sustainable and diverse mix of developments which limit the net Ongoing The Business & Economic Development adverse impacts associated with global warming such as promoting renewable Section has worked closely with the energy, the growth of local farm produce and the promotion of sustainable modes Portlaoise Farmers Market over the of public transport past year e.g. the BSU has been successful in acquiring the following funding from the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine to improve the Farmers market: - €10,290 in 2018 - €24,850 in 2019

A bus route is being developed in Portlaoise. A route has been selected. Awaiting funding from the National Transport Office

HERITAGE

BUILT HERITAGE OBJ 1 Encourage the understanding of, access to and promotion of County Laois’ historic Ongoing Various Heritage events have taken architectural heritage and archaeological heritage place, e.g: - Heritage Week takes place annually - The 90th anniversary of the first flight from Europe to North America took place in the Dunamaise Arts Centre in October 2018 - The centenary of the end of World

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

War I took place in the Dunamaise Arts Centre in October 2018 - Arnold Horner’s ‘Mapping Laois from the 16th to the 21st Century’ published in late 2018. - A Conservation Plan for the monastic site of Timahoe was published in 2018. Funded by the Heritage Council and Laois County Council. - The Connecting Communities programme, which draws together communities and their local heritage, focused on Timahoe in 2019: . Heritage events included the Big Dig for children at the Timahoe Viking day . Publication of Heritage Guide to Timahoe (with Wordwell Press) . Ongoing archaeological research at Timahoe

OBJ 2 Recognise the importance of archaeology and National Monuments as part of our A new Laois Passport was published in heritage and provide public access, subject to reasonable conservational 2018 to promote visits to heritage sites restrictions, reasonable considerations of public safety and avoidance of adverse in the county. This was done in effects on extant land uses, to Archaeological Sites and National Monuments in association with the Laois-Offaly state, Council or private ownership. Traditional access routes will be designated as Enterprise and Training Board, Laois public rights of way. In other cases, routes will be acquired either by agreement County Council and the Heritage with landowners or way of compulsory powers. Appropriate signage will be put in Council place

OBJ 3 Protect the intrinsic value, character, integrity and settings of monuments and Ongoing Ongoing implementation through places in the Record of Monuments and Places (RMPs) and any forthcoming Development Management and

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

statutory register and protect Zones of Archaeological Potential against Planning Enforcement inappropriate development;

OBJ 4 Protect all structures listed in the Record of Protected Structures, that are of special Ongoing Ongoing implementation through architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical Development Management and character or interest in County Laois Planning Enforcement

Grant funding secured each year through the Built Heritage Fund and the Structures at Risk Fund

2017 . Built Heritage Fund – total of EUR €96,890 secured

. Structures at Risk Funding towards 2 projects: - French Church Portarlington - EUR16,000 - Midland House, Portlaoise - EUR30,000

2018 . Built Heritage Fund – total of EUR €50,000 secured towards 11 projects

. Structures at Risk Funding towards 2 projects: - Roundwood House - EUR16,000 - Midland House, Portlaoise EUR22,000

OBJ 5 Designate Architectural Conservation Areas in Ballyroan, Mountmellick, Mountrath, Under review Under review

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

Stradbally and Portarlington [the latter in conjunction within Offaly County Council] over the Plan period

OBJ 6 Enable and ensure the preservation and enhancement of the special character of Ongoing Ongoing implementation through existing and forthcoming Architectural Conservation Areas (ACAs) of County Laois Development Management and and their settings Planning Enforcement

OBJ 7 Protect the setting and promote the importance of the Rock of Dunamaise as a Ongoing A visual analysis has identified two cultural and tourism asset sites for the development of a car park. The National Monuments Service have recommended further geophysical studies to allow full consideration of the suitability of the sites.

OBJ 8 Secure the protection of the Dunrally Viking Fort Ongoing Ongoing consideration

OBJ 9 Maximise the potential of the Fort of Maryborough, also known as the Fort Phase I of the In early 2018, Laois County Council was Protector in Portlaoise, as a heritage/cultural and community and tourism site project is now near successful in obtaining funding from complete the Heritage Council and the Department of Culture, Heritage and Phase II requires a the Gaeltacht under the new Historic design team which is Towns Initiative subject to procurement Phase II was included in the in the Urban Regeneration Redevelopment Fund

A Part VIII was granted in 2018 for Phase II, involving conservation of the remainder of the Fort Wall on Tower Hill, removal of the mass concrete granary, installation of public access and public realm enhancements on Tower Hill and Railway Street

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

Within the Fort Protector Site, Scoil Mhuire has been purchased by Laois County Council and is home to the School of Music. The Old Fort Festival celebrated the heritage of the Fort on 28th – 30th June 2019

The Conservation Plan for the Fort of Maryborough is ongoing (with Laois Heritage Society), and is due for publication in 2019

OBJ 10 To work with stakeholders including the OPW, the Heritage Council, the Arts Ongoing Ongoing implementation, e.g: Council, local communities and businesses to support the development of heritage and cultural tourism in County Laois; - The inaugural Twin Trees Heywood Festival will take place from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 August 2019. Heywood Gardens is owned and managed by the Office of Public Works, and the Festival is being supported by Laois County Council

- Laois County Council continue to work with the Office of Public Works in carrying out works at Emo Court

- A Conservation Plan for the monastic site of Timahoe was published in 2018. This was funded by the Heritage Council and Laois County Council

OBJ 11 Implement, promote and support, in partnership with all relevant stakeholders Ongoing Ongoing implementation

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(including the County Heritage Forum, the Heritage Council, community groups and the wider public) the aims and objectives contained in the Laois County Heritage Plan 2014‐2019 and any revision thereof and take cognisance, in assessing planning applications and preparing development plans, the provisions of the Plan.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE OBJ 1 Secure the preservation (in‐situ or by record) of all sites and features of historical Ongoing Ongoing implementation through and archaeological interest; Development Management

OBJ 2 Secure the preservation (in situ) of existing archaeological monuments including the Ongoing Ongoing implementation through integrity of town defences, town walls, embankments, town gates, bastions or Development Management, Planning ancillary fortifications or portions thereof. Preservation by record may also be Enforcement and Heritage Grants appropriate in some circumstances [as determined by the Planning Authority] in accordance with Framework and Principles for the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage;

OBJ 3 Ensure that development in the vicinity of a site of archaeological interest shall not Ongoing Ongoing implementation through be detrimental to the character of the archaeological site or its setting by reason of Development Management its location, scale, bulk or detailing

OBJ 4 Achieve a satisfactory buffer area between the development and town defences in Ongoing A Part VIII was granted in 2018 for the order to ensure the preservation and enhancement of the amenity associated with Fort of Maryborough Phase II works. the presence of town defences within the historic urban pattern Any future development will be subject to an appropriate buffer to ensure its preservation and enhancement

The Conservation Plan for the Fort of Maryborough is ongoing (with Laois Heritage Society), and is due for publication in 2019

OBJ 5 Have regard to the preservation and enhancement of the line of town defences Ongoing Ongoing implementation through when considering development proposed in their vicinity. Disturbance, removal and Development Management

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alteration of the line of town defences shall not be considered appropriate within the historic cores of Ballinakill, Castle town, Dunamaise, Killabban, Portarlington and Portlaoise

OBJ 6 Retain the existing streetlayout, historic building lines and traditional plot widths Ongoing Ongoing implementation through where these derive from medieval or earlier origins Development Management

OBJ 7 Require the preparation and submission of an archaeological assessment detailing Ongoing Ongoing implementation through the potential impact of any development on both upstanding monuments, and Development Management buried structures and deposits. The report will also include a visual impact assessment to ensure adequate consideration of any potential visual impact the proposed development may have on any upstanding remains

OBJ 8 When considering proposals for extractive Industry, the applicant shall have regard Ongoing Ongoing implementation through to: Development Management . The Archaeological Code of Practice agreed between Irish Concrete Federation and National Monuments Division; . The Code of Practice for Bord Na Mona . Other Archaeological Codes of Practice https://www.archaeology.ie/codes‐of‐practice. . Currently the Code of Practice with TII is at an advanced stage (pers. comm.)

OBJ 9 Prepare a visual impact statement of the area around the Rock of Dunamaise and Ongoing A Visual Impact Statement was detail the potential impacts of development in the area prepared in 2018/2019 by WYC which has identified sites that require further investigation and consultation with landowners and the community prior to going through planning permission.

Discussion is also ongoing with the OPW in relation to archaeological implications of the sites that are identified.

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

NATURAL HERITAGE OBJ 1 To maintain, protect and where possible enhance the conservation value of existing Ongoing Ongoing implementation through European and national designated sites (SAC, SPA, NHA) in the county and any Development Management additional sites that may be proposed for designation during the period of this Plan Each development proposal is subject to Appropriate Assessment Screening

OBJ 2 Promote and protect the Slieve Blooms as a significant natural heritage asset in Ongoing Ongoing implementation through terms of landscape, ecology and geology Development Management

OBJ 3 Encourage the conservation, understanding of, access to and promotion of County This is done through events held during Laois’ natural heritage Heritage Week and through Biodiversity events, supported by Laois County Council’s Environment Section

In 2017, Abbeyleix Bog received the President’s Prize for best biodiversity project at the Entente Florale

A tree planting programme took place in March 2019. In excess of 1,000 trees were planted at Kilminchy housing estate by conservation volunteers. This will assist wildlife enhancement.

OBJ 4 Use the Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) to protect parts of the Laois lands Ongoing Ongoing implementation through cape that are of scenic importance and sensitive to change Development Management

OBJ 5 Ensure the protection of terrestrial, aquatic and soil biodiversity throughout the Ongoing Ongoing implementation through county and protect against invasive species Development Management

Municipal Districts continue to carry

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

out measures (e.g. spraying and erection of signage) to protect against invasive species

Working with Birdwatch Ireland in 2019 to carry out a full survey of swifts in Co. Laois

OBJ 6 Where the opportunity arises, the Council will seek to create a green network of Ongoing The Vision for Portlaoise Town Centre spaces and corridors in order to provide for richer ecological networks and also consideration as part (commissioned in 2017) developed amenity areas by linking up existing fragmented green spaces and focusing on linear of each objectives to create a network of green features such as hedgerows, canal and river banks, railway embankments and development areas within the town centre to walking paths and promote a feasibility study on opportunities for incorporation of proposal provide for richer ecological networks green infrastructure and amenity areas

This objective has been strengthened by the Portlaoise Local Area Plan 2018 which seeks to improve and provide pedestrian linkages, cycle networks and permeability including blueways and greenways throughout the town, in particular along the along the River Triogue

OBJ 7 Implement the key objectives and associated actions identified in the county Ongoing Ongoing implementation Heritage Plan and any revision thereof

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SECTION 3: REVIEW OF OBJECTIVES OF TOWNS AND VILLAGES

Volume 2 of the County Development Plan consists of the land use plans for the towns and villages in Co. Laois.

Settlement Hierarchy within County Laois 2017-2023

PRINCIPAL TOWN PORTLAOISE A new Local Area Plan for Portlaoise was adopted in September 2018 which incorporates the Vision Statement for Portlaoise AND ENVIRONS Town Centre and a masterplan for the J17 National Enterprise Park (Togher).

KEY SERVICE TOWN Portarlington A new Local Area Plan for Portarlington was jointly adopted by Laois County Council and Offaly County Council in September and Environs 2018.

SERVICE TOWN MOUNTMELLICK A new Local Area Plan for Mountmellick was adopted by Laois County Council in September 2018.

GRAIGUECULLEN Laois County Council extended the duration of the Graiguecullen Local Area Plan 2012-2018 as contained in the Joint Spatial Plan for the Greater Carlow Graiguecullen Urban Area 2012-2018 for a further period of 4 years (i.e. up to and including 22nd October 2022).

ABBEYLEIX Residential - The Tiles housing development was taken in charge (February 2018)

Community - Community facilities granted at Father Breen Park (PL 18/628) - A Community Energy Masterplan is underway, as part of the Sustainable Energy Community Programme which is being rolled out by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)

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Heritage - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2018 to enhance the Abbeyleix Heritage House – project commenced - Abbeyleix Tidy Towns, in partnership with the local residents and Laois County Council, plan (subject to funding) to create a “neighbourwood” on Balladine Estate - In September 2017, Abbeyleix won a silver award at the Entente Florale which aims to promote a greener and more pleasant environment in European towns and villages.

MOUNTRATH Residential - Mixed use development (commercial and 3 no. residential apartments) granted (17/211) - Planning permission granted for a housing development of 38 houses (PL 16/488) - Part 8 granted for 8 social housing units at Gleann na Glaise (2018) - Ard Erin housing development was taken in charge (October 2017) - Wallis Street housing development was taken in charge (October 2017) - Cluinin housing development was taken in charge (January 2019)

Community - Planning permission granted for facilities at Mountrath GAA Club (PL 18/460) - Planning permission granted for new school facilitates at Clonenagh National School (19/10) - Part 8 granted for facilities at the Fire Station (2019) - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2017 for an enterprise hub – project completed - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2017 for a youth space premises – project completed - Outdoor Recreational Infrastructure Scheme funding received in 2017 for Sli na Slainte – project completed

Heritage - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2018 to upgrade the Brigidine Convent for community use – project commenced

STRADBALLY Residential - Planning permission granted for a housing development of 16 single storey housing units for the elderly (PL 17/403) - Planning permission granted for a housing development of 72 houses (PL 18/301)

Community - Village Plan underway in conjunction with Laois Partnership

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- Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2017 for public realm works – project complete - Planning permission granted for new school facilitates at St. Colmans National School and Cosby National School (PL 18/42 and PL18/245) - Electric Picnic continues. The event licence was received on May 8th 2019. A decision on the application will issue by 28/07/2019. - The SVT (Stradbally, Vicarstown, Timahoe) Community Sports Hub was established in 2017. These communities work together to develop better sport and physical activity opportunities for their people - School has received additional land for playing pitches under Planning permission 18/301

RATHDOWNEY Residential - Part 8 granted for 6 social housing units at Gleann na Glaise (2018) - Knockiel Drive housing development was taken in charge (January 2019)

Community - Outdoor Recreational Infrastructure Scheme funding received in 2017 for the Erkina Cycle Route – project completed - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2018 for lighting on the walking track – project commenced

Economic - Planning permission granted for a change the use of an existing animal feeds warehouse to craft brewery (PL 18/715)

DURROW Community - Village Plan completed in conjunction with Laois Partnership - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2018 to convert existing buildings to a community centre - Planning permission granted for demolition works and for the erection of a community use facility comprising of meeting rooms and related back up spaces, attached and internally connected to the Former Methodist Chapel/ICA Hall (RPS No.164) and associated site works at Patrick Street (PL 18/639)

BALLYLYNAN Residential - Planning permission granted for a housing development of 7 houses (PL 18/175) - Planning permission granted for a housing development of 12 houses (PL 17/516) - The Village housing development was taken in charge (September 2017) - Rahin Wood housing development was taken in charge (January 2018)

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

OTHER SETTLEMENTS (EXCEEDING 400 POPULATION) KILLENARD Residential - Planning permission granted to construct nursing care centre, 40 assisted living units, 65 sheltered homes and ancillary support facilities (PL 17/147)

Community - Village Plan completed in conjunction with Laois Partnership - 1st Food Futures event took place in Killenard in March 2018. Run by Laois County Council in conjunction with Laois LEO and Laois Partnership - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2017 for carpark improvement works at the community centre – project complete

CLONASLEE Residential - Planning permission granted at the former Vocational School in Clonaslee (a Protected Structure on the Derelict Site Register), to provide nine residential units (Planning application ref 18/755 relates)

Community - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2018 to upgrade the community centre – project commenced

Heritage - A submission has been made to the Creative Ireland coordinator for funding under the Creative Ireland programme for funding for conservation works at Kilmanman Church outside Clonaslee

Infrastructure - Planning permission granted for upgrade to the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) site

BORRIS IN Residential - Mill Court housing development was taken in charge (November 2018) OSSORY Community - Village Plan completed in conjunction with Laois Partnership - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2018 for the development of a new town park, a walkway and traffic calming – project commenced

BALLINAKILL Community - Village Plan completed in conjunction with Laois Partnership - The inaugural Twin Trees Heywood Festival will take place from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 August 2019. Heywood Gardens is owned and managed by the Office Of Public Works, and the Festival is being

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supported by Laois County Council - Reopening of Outdoor Swimming pool in July 2019 providing an additional recreational amenity

VILLAGES (LESS THAN 400 POPULATION) ARLES Miscellaneous - Planning permissions pertaining to modest development proposals are noted in the wider area

ATTANAGH Miscellaneous - Planning permissions pertaining to modest development proposals are noted in the wider area

BALLACOLLA Community - Village Plan underway in conjunction with Laois Partnership - Outdoor Recreational Infrastructure Scheme funding received in 2017 for the Blueway Walk – project completed

BALLYBRITTAS Community - Village Plan underway in conjunction with Laois Partnership

BALLYFIN Miscellaneous - Planning permissions pertaining to modest development proposals are noted in the wider area

BALYROAN Residential - Planning permission granted for a housing development of 6 houses (PL 18/327) - Planning permission granted to complete 15 houses and for a further 8 houses (PL 18/72) - Part 8 granted for 20 social housing units at Gleann na Glaise (2019) - Glenbrook housing development was taken in charge (October 2017) - Cross of Newtown housing development was taken in charge (February 2018) Community / - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2017 for works to the Ballyroan Schoolhouse. Phase II of Heritage the Schoolhouse project is now complete. A further phase is proposed to remove to damp-proof the building and to replace the inappropriate PVC windows with timber windows.

CAMROSS Community - Village Plan completed in conjunction with Laois Partnership - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2017 for a walking track – project completed - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2018 for the development of community space – project commenced - Clar funding received 2017 to upgrade play area – works complete

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CASTLETOWN Community - Village Plan underway in conjunction with Laois Partnership - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2017 for community building enhancement – project completed

CLOUGH Community - Village Plan underway in conjunction with Laois Partnership

COOLRAIN Community - Village Plan completed in conjunction with Laois Partnership

CULLAHILL Community - Village Plan completed in conjunction with Laois Partnership - Outdoor Recreational Infrastructure Scheme funding received in 2017 for Binninea Loop Walkway – works complete - The Folly Festival commenced in 2018 and running in 2019 - Extension to Community Centre granted planning permission under planning application reference 19/123

EMO Community - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2017 for the renovation of the old school house – project complete

ERILL Community - Village Plan completed in conjunction with Laois Partnership - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2017 to upgrade the local carpark – project completed - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2018 to build a sensory and a biodiversity rich garden – project commenced - Planning permission granted for facilities at GAA Club (PL 18/624)

KILLEEN Residential - Planning permission granted for a housing development of 20 houses (PL 17/499) - Killeen Gardens housing development was taken in charge November 2018

KILLESHIN Residential - Housing development of 50 houses granted in September 2017 (PL 16/475)

Community - Village Plan completed in conjunction with Laois Partnership

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- Planning permission granted for new a Community Centre (PL 19/40), GAA facilities (PL 18/621) and Soccer Club Facilities (PL 17/8)

NEWTOWN Miscellaneous - Planning permissions pertaining to modest development proposals are noted in the wider area DOONANE Miscellaneous - Planning permissions pertaining to modest development proposals are noted in the wider area

SHANAHOE Community - National school received planning permission to construct a two classroom extension and all associated works (planning application reference 17/701)

THE SWAN Community - Village Plan underway in conjunction with Laois Partnership

TIMAHOE Community - Town and Village Renewal Funding received in 2018 for village enhancements – project commenced - The SVT (Stradbally, Vicarstown, Timahoe) Community Sports Hub was established in 2017. These communities work together to develop better sport and physical activity opportunities for their people

Heritage - A Conservation Plan for the monastic site of Timahoe was published in 2018. Funded by the Heritage Council and Laois County Council. - The Connecting Communities programme, which draws together communities and their local heritage, focused on Timahoe in 2019: . Heritage events including the Big Dig for children at the Timahoe Viking day on the June Bank Holiday . Publication of Heritage Guide to Timahoe (with Wordwell Press) . Ongoing archaeological research at Timahoe

VICARSTOWN Community - River Barrow Blueway development (PL 17/37) - Canal element between Bawn to south of Vicarstown granted - The SVT (Stradbally, Vicarstown, Timahoe) Community Sports Hub was established in 2017. These communities work together to develop better sport and physical activity opportunities for their people

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SECTION 4: PROGRESS ON IMPLEMENTATION OF THE HOUSING STRATEGY

4.1 Introduction Under Part V of the Planning and Development Act (as amended), each planning authority must prepare a Housing Strategy which will cover the period of its development plan. Each strategy must have regard to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area and must address the overall supply of housing within the administrative boundary of the Local Authority. Within this, the Planning Authority has a statutory obligation to address the need for social housing and to ensure that sufficient land for social housing purposes is provided.

A Housing Strategy for the period 2017-2023 formed part of the Laois County Development Plan 2017 - 2023. The Strategy sets out the following key principles:

 To work to deliver the revised population target, having regard to the County’s established settlement hierarchy as set out in the Laois County Development Plan;  To promote socially balanced and inclusive communities in all housing areas across Laois;  To provide for varying identified needs in the County with respect to housing typology, size and mix;  To monitor the housing strategy, allowing for adequate consultation with those who are central to the implementation of the policies in the strategy.

Under Section 95(3)(a) of the Planning and Development Act, the Chief Executive is required to include a review of the progress achieved in implementing the Housing Strategy in the two year progress report on the Development Plan. In reviewing the Housing Strategy, it is considered appropriate to review:

1) The availability of sufficient zoned land, 2) Housing supply, 3) The provision of social and affordable housing and housing supports by the Council, 4) The Role of the Private Rented Sector in the Provision of Social and Affordable Housing, 5) The Housing Needs of Persons with Specific Requirements.

It is important to note that the Census 2016 data had not been finalised when the Housing Strategy was being prepared. Thus a population target of 83,656 people (for the County) was subsequently agreed with the Midland Regional Authority for 2016. This target provided the basis for the housing modelling carried out in the Housing Strategy. The actual results of the 2016 Census data revealed a population of 84,697 for County Laois, higher than the originally projected figure.

4.2 The Availability of Zoned Land As per section 3 of this report, there are a total of thirty one zoned settlements identified in Volume 2 of the Laois County Development Plan 2017 – 2023. There is a total of 2,052 hectares

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019 of land zoned for all uses across these settlements, of which 575.83 hectares are zoned for residential development. This residential zoning can be broken down as follows:

. Residential 1 Established – 389.65 hectares . Residential 2 Proposed – 90.59 hectares . Strategic Reserve (2018-2014) – 95.59 hectares

There have been no variations to the Laois County Development Plan 2017 – 2023 since its adoption. Thus, the quantum of land zoned within Volume 2 of the Laois County Development Plan 2017 – 2023 remains unchanged.

The Plan is operating in conjunction with four adopted Local Area Plans, namely the Graiguecullen [in conjunction with Carlow County Council], Mountmellick, Portlaoise and, Portarlington [in conjunction with Offaly County Council] Local Area Plans. A review of the Portlaoise Local Area Plan, the Mountmellick Local Area Plan and the joint Local Area Plan for Portarlington [in association with Offaly County Council] took place in 2018. This resulted in a change to the quantum of zoned lands in each of these settlements. The areas of residential zoned land in each of these settlements are as follows:

Portlaoise Mountmellick Portarlington Graiguecullen (area within (area within Laois only) Laois only) Existing 370.718 90.22 99.33 80.33 Proposed 82.156 18.01 32.526 19.33 Strategic 36.1 0.94 0 30.75 Reserve Total 488.974 109.17 131.856 130.41

The area of land zoned for Proposed Residential development within the Plan period 2017-2023 is 240ha which is in compliance with the Core Strategy as set out in the County Development Plan 2017-2023. This includes the above mentioned four towns with Local Area Plans prepared and adopted in 2018.

The below table indicates the level of housing activity within the main settlements and on residential zoned lands. There remains capacity within each of the towns for further development in line with the Housing Strategy and the Core Strategy.

Area Zoned for Capacity for no. of units Extant planning Residential permissions (i.e. no. Development 2017- of units granted to 2023 date)

Portlaoise 82 ha 2214 (based on average of 27 1458 per hectare)

Portarlington 33 ha 396 (based on average of 12 205 per hectare)

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

Mountmellick 18 ha 252 (based on average of 14 - per hectare)

Graiguecullen 19 ha 266 (based on average of 14 77 per hectare)

It should be noted that a number of housing developments have also been granted planning permission in a number of the designated Service towns, including Mountrath, Stradbally and Ballylinan, and the small towns and villages. The housing developments that have been granted have all been granted within the residential zoned area. Notwithstanding these permissions, sufficient residential zoned lands remain for further development in line with the Housing Strategy and the Core Strategy.

4.3 Housing Supply The Department of the Housing, Planning and Local Government publishes Annual Housing Statistics. The most up-to-date data that has been published in relation to housing supply for the years 2017, 2018 and 2019 relates to commencement notices for residential units in the County not specifically within urban areas.

In this regard, the following table sets out annual house commencements in Co. Laois for the period 2017-2019:

Year Commencement Notices

2017 177 2018 346 2019 (to date) 112 Total 635

Sources: DoEHLG website1

4.4 Provision of Social and Affordable Housing In accordance with Section 9 of the Housing Act 1988, Housing Authorities are required to undertake an assessment of housing need in their administrative area. The assessment itself includes a broad range of categories encompassing the homeless; travellers; those in overcrowded or involuntary accommodation and those people with disabilities etc.

The ‘Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan’ was introduced in 2016 to accelerate housing supply in the country to tackle the country’s housing shortage. The plan addresses the needs of homeless people and families in emergency accommodation, accelerate the provision of social housing, deliver more housing, utilize vacant homes and improve the rental sector. As part of this Action

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Plan, each Local authority has been assigned targets for social housing delivery output. These targets are achieved through new build, acquisition and leasing. Under the Rebuilding Ireland: Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness, Laois County Council was tasked with the delivery of 627 social housing units over the period 2018-2021.

The below table draws together a summary of social and affordable housing units delivered in County Laois in 2017 and 2018. Figures relating to 2019 will not be available until the end of the year.

DELIVERY AGENCY DELIVERY PATH 2017 2018 DIRECT - LAOIS COUNTY COUNCIL Construction 0 33 Turnkey 0 0 Laois County Council Acquisition 47 24 Housing Agency Acquisition 0 0 Buy & Renew 0 0 Repair and Lease 0 0 Urban Regeneration 0 0 Rural 0 0 Voids 0 4 Part V 1 0 INDIRECT – APPROVED HOUSING BODY Leasing 24 0 Capital Assistance Scheme 0 0 Capital Advance Leasing Facility (Approved Housing Body) Construction 0 13 Capital Advance Leasing Facility (Approved Housing Body) Acquisition 0 5 Capital Advance Leasing Facility (Approved Housing Body) Turnkey 0 45 Capital Advance Leasing Facility (Approved Housing Body) Part V 0 0 Capital Advance Leasing Facility (Approved Housing Body) HAA 0 19 TOTAL 72 143

Under the Rebuilding Ireland Targets set for 2018, Laois Council exceeded our target of 76 units with a total delivery of 143 units through the various mechanisms of new build, turnkey, acquisitions and leasing.

The above table shows that the number of delivered social and affordable housing units doubled from 2017 to 2018. It also shows the construction of 33 units by Laois County Council in 2018, the first social housing project to take place in Laois in over a decade. The units comprise two, three and four bed units, and each are now allocated and tenanted.

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

The above table also shows that Laois County Council was particularly active in housing acquisition in 2017 and 2018.

This has resulted in the following year on year increase in the stock of social housing units, since the adoption of the Laois County Development Plan 2017 – 2023:

Year 01/01/2017 01/01/2018 01/01/2019 Stock of social 2,120 2,170 2,218 housing units

It can also be seen from the above table that the number of social and affordable housing units delivered through Approved Housing Bodies is a significant area of delivery. This is in accordance with the Council’s Housing Strategy which states that Approved Housing Bodies (AHB’s) will play a more significant part in the delivery of social housing in the future.

4.5 The Role of the Private Rented Sector in the Provision of Social and Affordable Housing There were approximately 1,700 people on the County Council housing waiting list when the Council’s Housing Strategy was finalised in 2017. A total of 397 housing allocations were made since 2017, 949 applicants signed up to HAP and 788 of those remain active. There are currently 902 applicants remaining on the social housing waiting list.

1. The Housing Assistant Payment (HAP) commenced in Laois in 2016. It is a form of social housing support for people who have a long-term housing need.

In 2017, there was a total of 316 active HAP tenancies. This figure increased to 657 in 2018 and as of 30th June 2019, there are 788 active HAP tenancies.

2. The Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) is a government initiative to cater for people who qualify for social housing supports and are in receipt of long term rent supplement (state support payment) and living in the private rented sector for 18 months or more.

In 2017, there was a total of 225 active tenants. In 2018, there were 221 active tenancies and as of 20th June 2019, there are 214 active RAS tenancies. In addition to the above there is now another form of RAS type agreements called Social Housing Leasing Scheme (SHLS) of which there are currently 32 active tenancies.

Thus it is clear that the private rented sector continues to play an important role in addressing the Council’s housing waiting list figures.

4.6 The Housing Needs of Persons with Specific Requirements The Housing Strategy provides commentary on a number of categories with housing needs, which require specific mention in this review:

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

. Travellers: The Housing Strategy states that there were approximately 169 Traveller families residing in Laois at that time (2017). According to the draft Traveller Accommodation Programme 2019 – 2024 which outlines a strategy for the provision of traveler accommodation, this number increased to 196 in 2018.

Details of allocations to members of the travelling community from 2017 to date are shown in the below table:

Standard Acquisitions Approved HAP Traveller Local Housing Specific Authority Bodies Housing 2017 7 5 0 3 0 2018 6 0 4 0 0 To date in 3 0 0 0 0 2019

. Homeless Presentations: In 2017, there were 210 homeless presentations, including 263 repeat presentations. In 2018, there were 280 homeless presentations, including 371 repeat presentations. To date in 2019, there have been 195 homeless presentations, including 50 repeat presentations.

. People with Disabilities: Laois County Council endeavours to carry out specialist extensions and alterations to Local Authority houses to accommodate the needs of disabled persons. Related Initiatives include the housing adaption grant and mobility aid grant.

The below table shows that 27 allocations were made to people with a disability in 2018. This equates to 13.7% of total allocation for that year.

ALLOCATIONS MADE TO PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY AS OF 31st DECEMBER 2018 Disability No. of allocations made to people with a disability including transfers, RAS & Leasing Basis of need - Physical 18 Basis of need - Sensory 2 Basis of need - Mental health 6 Basis of need - Intellectual 1 Classification of Need is physical, sensory, mental health or Intellectual impairment.* Total 27 (out of a total of 196 allocations made)

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. Older persons : In order to be considered for Older Persons accommodation, a person must be either: - 55 years; - 50 or over with Medical or Welfare Priority; - Have a Spouse/Partner who is 50 years or over.

The age profile of current tenants who are classed as older persons is as follows:

Age Number 55-64 380 65-74 261 75-84 94 85-92 22

4.7 Next Steps As set out in Section 1 of this report, a review of the Laois County Development Plan will commence in quarter 4 2019 to enable an alignment of national, regional and local policy objectives. This process will include a review of the Housing Strategy.

The Housing Strategy, along with housing policies and associated land use zoning policies, will be informed by a ‘Housing Needs Demand Assessment’ (HNDA) which will be prepared in conjunction with the forthcoming review of the land use plans for the County. Guidelines are currently being prepared by the Department of Housing , Planning and Local Government to inform the preparation of same.

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

SECTION 5: MONITORING OF ENVIRONMNTAL INDICATORS

Environmental Potential Effect, if unmitigated Indicators for Monitoring Update Component Biodiversity and Arising from both construction and B1: Conservation status of habitats and Ongoing mitigation through Development Flora and Fauna operation of development and species as assessed under Article 17 of Management. Each plan and project (i.e. associated infrastructure: loss the Habitats Directive planning application and Part VIII proposal) is of/damage to biodiversity in subject to Appropriate Assessment Screening designated sites (including Natura B2: Percentage loss of functional – eight planning applications were received 2000 Sites and Wildlife Sites) and connectivity without remediation with accompanying Natura Impact Annexed habitats and species, listed resulting from development provided Statements since July 2017. Statutory species, ecological connectivity and for by the Plan consultation is undertaken in accordance with non-designated habitats; and the Planning & Development Regulations disturbance to biodiversity and flora B3i: Number of significant impacts on 2001 (as amended). and fauna relevant habitats, species, environmental features or other Habitat loss, fragmentation and sustaining resources in designated sites deterioration, including patch size and including Wildlife Sites resulting from edge effects development provided for by the Plan

Disturbance (e.g. due to noise and B3ii: Number of significant impacts on lighting along transport corridors) and the protection of listed species displacement of protected species

Population and Potential interactions if effects upon PHH1: Occurrence (any) of a spatially The HSE has not raised any issue in relation to Human Health environmental vectors such as water concentrated deterioration in human potential or actual adverse impacts on Public and air are not mitigated health arising from environmental Health arising from water or air pollution. factors resulting from development provided for by the Plan, as identified by the Health Service Executive and Environmental Protection Agency

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

Soil Damage to the hydrogeological and S1: Soil extent and hydraulic Laois County Council receives approximately ecological function of the soil resource connectivity Selected Indicator(s) 50 Nutrient Management Plans (NMPs) per year from farmers looking to landspread sewage sludge on their lands. These NMPs must contain soil samples from their landbank showing compliance with ‘S.I. No. 148/1998 - Waste Management (Use of Sewage Sludge in Agriculture) Regulations, 1998’. These are important indicators to protect against over intensification of land.

Water Adverse impacts upon the status of W1: Classification of Overall Status W1: In preparation of the ‘River Basin water bodies arising from changes in (comprised of ecological and chemical Management Plan for Ireland 2018-2021’ the quality, flow and/or morphology status) under the European EPA in consultation with Laois County Council Communities Environmental Objectives classified the water quality status for all Increase in the risk of flooding (Surface Waters) Regulations 2009 (SI waterbodies in the county. Four Prioritised No. 272 of 2009) Areas for Action (PAAs) in Laois were identified, i.e. targeted at Risk waterbodies to achieve status improvements. Investigative work on the river Owveg waterbody was completed in 2018/2019. The river Erkina waterbody is the next scheduled PAA in Laois (2020).

W2: Groundwater Quality Standards and W2: There is ongoing work under the ‘River Threshold Values under Directive Basin Management Plan for Ireland 2018- 2006/118/EC 2021’ to prevent deterioration of the status of Groundwater.

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W3: Number of incompatible W3: Ongoing mitigation through developments granted permission on Development Management – a Flood Risk lands which pose - or are likely to pose Assessment is required for any development in the future - a significant flood risk likely to pose a significant flood risk (i.e. within a flood zone) and in these instances, the applicants are assessed against the Planning System and Flood Risk Management Guidelines 2009.

Air and Climatic Emissions to air including greenhouse C1: Percentage of population travelling A Socio Economic Profile, which will capture Factors gas emissions and other emissions to work, school or college by public this data, is currently being finalised by the transport or non-mechanical means Community department, based on current statistics from 2016.

Material Assets Failure to provide adequate and M1: Number of new developments M1: Ongoing mitigation through appropriate waste water treatment granted permission which can be Development Management – A site suitability (water services infrastructure and adequately and appropriately served assessment is submitted with all new capacity is needed to ensure the with waste water treatment over the development proposals that are unable to mitigation of potential conflicts) lifetime of the Plan connect to public wastewater mains. In these cases, proposals must comply with the EPA’s Failure to comply with drinking water Code of Practice: Waste Water Treatment regulations and serve new and Disposal Systems Serving Single Houses development with adequate drinking 2009. water that is both wholesome and clean (water services infrastructure Where it is proposed to connect to public and capacity is needed to ensure the wastewater mains, a pre-connection mitigation of potential conflicts) agreement with Irish Water must be put in place. Increases in waste levels In 2018, approximately 2018 rural one off houses were granted planning permission across the county.

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M2: Number of non-compliances with M2: Under the Water Services No. 2 Act, Irish the 48 parameters identified in the Water became the statutory body responsible European Communities (Drinking Water) for the provision of all Public Water and Regulations (No. 2) 2007 which present Wastewater Services. a potential danger to human health as a result of implementing the Plan Laois County Council operates and maintains these schemes for IW under a Service Level agreement.

The European Union (Drinking Water) Regulations 2014, as amended sets out the frequency and parameters and their limits to be monitored to ensure that water is wholesome and safe.

Drinking Water Quality in Public Water Schemes in Laois continues to be 100% compliant with Microbiological and Chemical Parameters.

In relation to Private Water Supplies which include Group Water Schemes and Small Private Supplies (SPSs), unfortunately, the quality of Drinking Water is inferior to Public Supplies in particular in SPSs.

M3i: Total collected and brought M3i: With regard to Household Waste household waste collections, according to the NWCPO Annual Return figures for Co. Laois in 2017, there were 18,879 households with a service. For 2018, 19,135 households had a bin system in Co. Laois. It must be noted that the Waste Transfer Station in Kyletalesha also allows householders to dispose of household waste through a tracked Key Fob system.

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Chief Executives Report on the 2 year review of the County Development Plan 2017-2023 July 2019

Bye-Laws came into effect at the end of 2018 which outline the requirements of householders and commercial operators in their duty for the removal of waste. A number of audits have been performed to date to assess compliance under the Bye- Laws. Waste Enforcement Officers perform back office inspections with the Waste Collectors servicing Co. Laois. This is to audit the number of householders in appropriate population agglomerations with a 3 bin system.

M3ii: Packaging recovered (t) by self- Under Regulations, a commercial operator complying packagers who meets the requirement as a major producer has the option to self comply with Laois County Council or to join Repak. There were no self-complying commercial operators in Co. Laois in 2017 or 2018. For 2019 to date, there has not been any expression of interest to self comply regarding packaging.

Cultural Heritage Potential effects on protected and CH1: Percentage of entries to the Record Ongoing mitigation through Development unknown archaeology and protected of Monuments and Places - including Management. Each planning proposal that is architecture arising from construction Areas of Archaeological Potential and likely to have an impact on the County’s built and operation activities Significance (and the context of the heritage and archaeological heritage is above within the surrounding landscape subject to statutory consultation with The where relevant) - protected from Department of Culture, Heritage and the significant adverse effects arising from Gaeltacht, and other statutory consultees. new development granted permission Where necessary, an Architectural Heritage under the Plan Assessment and / or an Archaeological Impact Assessment are requested for consideration. CH2: Percentage of entries to the Record

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of Protected Structures and Since 2017, the Planning Authority have Architectural Conservation Areas and considered: their context protected from significant - Approximately 29 Section 57 Declations adverse effects arising from new under the Planning and Development Act development granted permission under 2000 (as amended) the Plan - Approximately 40 planning applications relating to Protected Structures.

Landscape Occurrence of adverse visual impacts L1: Number of complaints received from None recorded and conflicts with the appropriate statutory consultees regarding avoidable protection of statutory designations adverse visual impacts on the landscape relating to the landscape resulting from development which is granted permission under the Plan

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