MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE MEMBERS OF MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LISTOWEL HELD IN ÁRAS AN PHIARSAIGH, LISTOWEL ON MONDAY 13th JANUARY 2020.
MIONTUAIRISCÍ NA CRUINNITHE DE CHEANTAR BARDASACH LIOS TUATHAIL A THIONÓLADH IN ÁRAS AN PHIARSAIGH, LIOS TUATHAIL, AR DÉ LUAIN, 13th EANÁIR, 2020.
PRESENT/ I LÁTHAIR Councillors/Comhairleoirí Cllr. T. Barry Cllr. R. Beasley Cllr. M. Kennelly Cllr. M. Foley Cllr. A. Thornton Cathaoirleach J. Moloney
In attendance/i láthair Ms. J. McCarthy Meetings Administrator Mr. A. Smith Municipal District Officer Ms. T. Smith Kerry NRDO Office Mr. T. Sheehy Senior Engineer Mr. J. Kennelly Senior Engineer Mr. E. Scanlan Senior Executive Engineer Mr. M. McEnery Executive Engineer Mr. E. Joy Assistant Engineer Mr. C Mangan Senior Executive Engineer Water Services Mr. T. Brosnan Administrative Officer Housing Mr. G. O’Brien Administrative Officer Environmental Services Mr. J. Downes CO Corporate Support
The Meeting commenced at 10.10am. Cathaoirleach J. Moloney took the Chair.
1. (a) Confirmation of the minutes of the meeting of the following meetings:
(1) On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. R. Beasley SECONDED by Cllr. M. Kennelly it was agreed that the Minutes of the Meeting of the Members of the Municipal District of Listowel held on 13th November 2019 be confirmed. (2) On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. R. Beasley SECONDED by Cllr. T. Barry it was agreed that the Minutes of the Draft Budgetary Meeting of the Members of the Municipal District of Listowel held on 25th October 2019 be confirmed.
(b) Business prescribed by statute Standing Orders or Resolutions of the Municipal District Members for transaction at such meeting.
(1) In accordance with the Local Government Act 2001 (as amended) and having regard to Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 in relation to the taking in charge of estates, to consider any objections or representations received and the making of an Order declaring the following roads to be a public road pursuant to Section 11 (2) (i) of the Roads Act 1993: Declaration of Road to be Public Road at the following location:
Having considered the reports, it was PROPOSED by Cllr. M. Kennelly SECONDED by Cllr. T. Barry and agreed by the Members that:
• An Tobar, Duagh Village - Road from its junction with the R-555-80 to all terminal points within the estate An Tobar, Duagh Village, Map 18-01 (serving 8 houses). Total Length of road to be Taken in Charge: - 124m be taken in charge by Kerry County Council;
Dáta/Date 18th December 2020
Chuig/To: Cathaoirleach Cllr. Jimmy Moloney Gach ball de Cheantar Bardasach Lios Tuathail
Ábhar/Subject: Declaration of Roads to be Public Road/s in Accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993 ------
A Chomhairleoir, a Chara,
In accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 I enclose a report on the Taking in charge, by Kerry County Council of one housing estate in the Listowel Municipal District.
Public notice of our intention to declare the roadway as public roadway was advertised in the local press and submissions were invited.
No submissions or observations were received.
I now recommend that this estate is Taken in Charge by Kerry County Council, in accordance with the legislation and the Taking in charge policy, adopted by the Council in June 2008 and the recent Memorandum of Understanding and Protocol with Irish Water.
The consideration of this Report and the making of the Order to declare these roadways as a public roadway is now a reserved function of the members of the Listowel Municipal District in accordance with the Local Government act 2001 (as amended).
Is mise le meas,
______Gerard O’Brien, A/S.E.O. Environmental Services, Planning Enforcement, and Housing Estates Unit
KERRY COUNTY COUNCIL COMHAIRLE CONTAE CHIARRAI
Report to the Municipal District of Listowel in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993
Declaration of Road to be Public Road at the following locations:
(i) An Tobar, Duagh Village, Co. Kerry
Date: 7th January 2020
MUNICIPAL DISTRICT OF LISTOWEL/CEANTAR BARDASACH LIOS TUTHAIL Report Prepared Pursuant to Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993
Locations of Roads to be Taken In Charge:
An Tobar, Duagh Village - Road from its junction with the R-555-80 to all terminal points within the estate An Tobar, Duagh Village Map 18-01 (serving 8 houses).
Total Length of road to be Taken in Charge: - 124m
Background:
Pursuant to ‘Taking in Charge’ Policy, adopted by the Council in June 2008, it is proposed to take this roadway in charge.
Statutory Procedures:
In accordance with Section 11(b)(iii) of the Roads Act 1993, a Notice of Intention to declare as a public road, the road in An Tobar, Duagh Village, Co. Kerry was published in The Kerryman Newspaper, issue date 30th October 2019.
Persons or Bodies who made objections or observations within the prescribed period:
No objections or observations were received within the prescribed period.
I recommend that the road be taken in charge.
______Michael Scannell A/Director of Economic & Community Development
20.01.13.02 Economic & Community Development Directorate
(a) It was agreed to note the following report from Economic and Community Development Directorate which was circulated:
Economic and Community Development Report
LISTOWEL Municipal District
DATE: 13th January 2020
Director of Service: Michael Scannell
BUSINESS SUPPORT UNIT (LEO)
Grants
Expressions of interest are presently being sought for core grant aid for the February 2020 Evaluation meeting. Grant aid of €407,023 was approved for new feasibility studies, priming grants and expansion grants in 2019.
The TAME (Technical Assistance for Micro-Exporters) is a grant of up to €2,500 available to businesses who wish to exhibit at overseas trade fairs. 11 trade fair grants have been approved with exhibitions in Japan, Dubai, UK, USA and Northern Ireland. Interest in the Trading Online Voucher Scheme remains strong with 57 applications approved this year. The office has scheduled another Trading Online Voucher Seminar on 21st January with bookings being taken through our website.
Training
The last of the four autumn/winter “Start Your Own Business programmes” has just finished. All courses were fully booked.
Demand for Digital Marketing and Social Media training around the county continues to be strong and procurement is ongoing for these programmes for 2020. The office currently has a Digital Marketing Programme nearing completion. Other social media business programmes scheduled include Beginners Instagram Marketing for Business, Beginners Facebook Marketing and How to Run Facebook Advertising Campaigns.
Mentoring
Mentoring demand remains strong across the county. Brexit Clinics continue every Wednesday with bookings being taken through our website as well as direct contact through the office.
Listowel MD Meeting 6 13th January 2020 Microfinance Loans
9 client businesses were assisted in making loan applications to Microfinance Ireland.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
LEADER Programme
A meeting of the Kerry LCDC led Local Action Group (LAG) was held on the 2nd December 2019. A total of 5 no. projects supported by North East & West Kerry Development CLG (NEWKD) were presented for approval at the meeting. Following a detailed consideration of the information received, all 5 projects were approved for funding with a cumulative total of €84,694.50.
In total 300 projects in Kerry with a monetary value of €6,398,558.53 have been approved for funding under the LEADER 2014-2020 programme to date.
Healthy Ireland
The Healthy Kerry Plan is being developed. It is intended that the plan will be presented to the LCDC at the January 2020 meeting.
Healthy Ireland Fund Round 3 (1st July 2019 – 30th June 2021) Kerry’s LCDC HIF Round 3 application was submitted to Pobal on 19th September. The application identifies 5 actions as well as Community Engagement, Community Mental Health Fund Action and Small Grants Scheme and is seeking €246,050 in funding.
Kerry’s Play Policy Review
Targeted stakeholder consultation workshops took place on Tuesday 3rd December to commence consultation on Kerry’s Play Policy which was published in 2005. Dr Carol Barron, Chairperson of Súgradh and national children’s play researcher at Dublin City University, facilitated these workshops.
Further consultation will be held in early 2020 on the draft policy with presentation to the full Council for adoption in due course.
Kerry Age Friendly Programme Update
Representatives from the World Health Organisation will make a special presentation to the Irish Age Friendly Programme on 16th December in Slane, Co. Meath. Ireland is the first country in the world to achieve WHO Age Friendly status. This means that Ireland as a country has been recognised as working towards an age friendly society. Kerry achieved World Health Organisation Age Friendly programme affiliation in July 2018 as part of this process.
Listowel MD Meeting 7 13th January 2020 Kerry PPN Secretariat
The Kerry PPN have undertaken their elections with regards to the Secretariat. The PPN Secretariat is the elected group of members who act as the administrative body of the PPN. It comprises of one representative from each Municipal District area and two representatives from each of the Electoral Colleges of Community / Voluntary, Social Inclusion and Environment. Gillian Wharton Slattery election to the Secretariat from the Tralee Municipal District has been ratified.
The PPN is represented on the Councils five ‘Strategic Planning Committees’ (SPCs); Joint Policing Committee JPC; and the Local Community Development Committee LCDC. These committees have members from a variety of backgrounds some are councillors, some from community groups, some are council staff, and some people are from business agricultural or trade union backgrounds. In total, there are 9 seats available to the PPN within these committee structures. Elections to the committees took place during the week of 2nd to 9th December. Membership was ratified at the council meeting of December16th.
The PPN representatives nominated to the Kerry LCDC were ratified at the December LCDC meeting and are as follows:
Community and Voluntary Pillar: Gillian Wharton Slattery; Marilyn Counihan Social Inclusion Pillar: Maura Fitzgerald; John Spillane Environmental Pillar: Bill Morrell
Kerry Recreation and Sports Partnership (KRSP)
Kerry Recreation and Sports Partnership (KRSP), through the support of Sport Ireland's increased investment into the national local sports partnership network, is focussing on increasing the staff compliment to four full-time staff, inclusive of the Community Sports Development and Social Inclusion Disability Officers.
The 18th January 2020 is designated as National Operation Transformation Walk Day and for first time a walk will be held in Childers Park & Woodlands in Listowel.
Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme (SICAP) SICAP Annual Plan Local Development Companies (LDCs) are required to submit a SICAP annual plan to the LCDC, setting out their proposed SICAP plan for the coming year. The annual planning process provides LDCs with an opportunity to reflect on their work and identify emerging trends to be addressed in the Lot area. The annual plan outlines the proposed actions for the following year and the targets and outcomes that will be achieved as a result and includes costings. The three horizontal themes of the programme (Equality, Community Development and Collaboration), must be incorporated into the planning process. The role of the LCDC is to review and approve the annual plan and assess it to ensure it is in line with local priorities and with the SICAP Programme Requirements. The timeline for uploading the Annual Plan was 22nd November 2019.
Listowel MD Meeting 8 13th January 2020
SICAP Budget potential increase for 2020 The Department has sought a 3% overall increase to the SICAP funding allocation for 2020 to be confirmed in December in line with the national budgetary process. The Annual Plan must highlight how the additional budget will be spent.
Town & Village Renewal Scheme 2019
Listowel has received substantial funding under the 2019 Town & Village Renewal Scheme for the below project:
Enhance and improve one of the primary access routes into Listowel, Ireland's Tidiest Town in 2019, and deliver quality linkage to the DTTaS funded North Kerry Listowel €200,000 Greenway and enhance the sustainability of the town by providing sustainable transport options and low energy public lighting.
Outdoor Recreation Fund
Three projects from the Listowel MD received funding under Measure 1 of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme 2019: Beach Purchase of new beach Wheelchairs wheelchairs Ballyheigue & €9,309.60 Ballybunion (+ 3 other beaches) Listowel Cycling Installation of covered and Childers Park & €16,000.00 Infrastructure uncovered bicycle stands to Woodlands, Listowel promote cycling in Listowel. Eurovelo Route Installation of Eurovelo branded Listowel – Kenmare €20,000.00 Signage signage & cycle gradient signage along Kerry route.
Community Support Fund 2020
The launch of the 2020 Community Support Fund took place on 104th December 2019, which will see investment of €132,356 in the Municipal District of Listowel.
In 2019, 13 projects were funded under the category Community Tidy Towns and Amenity Projects, 2 were funded under Community Sport and Physical Activity Programmes, 31 were funded under Community Based Tourism, Festivals and Events, 13 were funded under Community Tidy Towns and Amenity Projects and 13 projects funded under Growing and Sustaining Communities.
Festivals which received funding under Community Based Tourism, Festivals and Events ranged from the internationally acclaimed Listowel Writers Week, and the fast growing Revival Music Festival, the innovative Féile an tSolais and commemorative Marconi event in Ballybunion to mark the 100 year anniversary of the first spoken word across the Atlantic Ocean, from east to west Marconi to a local traditional dance weekend at the Ceolann Cultural Centre in Lixnaw.
Listowel MD Meeting 9 13th January 2020
The Community Sport and Physical Activity Programmes focussed on teenage girls, a target group under national sports participation strategy. The successful Community Tidy Towns and Amenity Projects included enhancement projects for virtually all villages in the Listowel Municipal District and the project funded under Growing and Sustaining Communities included committee skills training, and a 6-week nutrition and wellbeing programme for teenage Travellers.
One of our objectives is to target funding to projects and groups who would be eligible for co- funding under other schemes. It is intended that some of the Community Support Fund will be used to target strategic projects in Municipal Districts and that it will be used to co-fund projects which are in receipt of grants from other sources.
In 2019, this included upgrades to Childers Park & Woodlands in Listowel and the creation of a viewing area on the Cliff Road in Ballybunion.
The Fund may also be used to help leverage grants under programmes such as the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and the Rural Economic Development Zone Scheme and in recent years the Community Support Strategic Fund allowed funding to be leveraged for the new Listowel web site and a 3 Year Economic Plan as well as construction of a new beach service centre in Ballybunion.
The closing date for the receipt of applications under the Fund is Monday 20th January 2020.
Festivals
On Saturday 16th November 2019, the Listowel Business & Community Alliance celebrated the Spirit of Christmas in Listowel and KCC were delighted to provide support. The Square hosted a Christmas Market full of all the sights, sounds and smells of the Festive Season. Local Band Nitelife were on stage throughout the afternoon with special performances from Gaelscoil Lios Tuathail and Presentation Convent Primary School.
The Christmas lights were switched on by representatives of the five businesses who all appeared in the 2019 Retail Excellence Top 100 achieving national recognition for the high standard of customer service offered in Listowel.
Noting the report, Cllr. M. Foley queried as to whether there would be a commemoration ceremony for the Listowel Mutiny, which took place in 1920. He hoped that this could be added to any commemorative ceremonies taking place around the County.
(b) Notices of Motion
1. Cllr. T. Barry: That Kerry County Council update on the services that are being provided and by what Companies from the Telecommunication Mast at Dirha East, Listowel?
REPLY: This mast is in private ownership and Kerry County Council has no control over what telecommunication equipment is erected on it including any equipment involved in the roll out
Listowel MD Meeting 10 13th January 2020 of 5G which refers to the fifth-generation mobile networks. ComReg have a definition of what is 5G on their website: https://www.comreg.ie/industry/radio-spectrum/about-5g/ Following similar, previous Motions in relation to 5G submitted by Cllr’s Foley & Barry at Full Council in September, Kerry County Council wrote to the Minister for Communications in Sept 2019. The Minister response was circulated to the members: I refer to your correspondence regarding the passing of a motion on 5G by Kerry County Council. The roll-out of 5G in Ireland is primarily a matter for private mobile network operators, operating on a commercial basis, in a liberalised market. The regulation of these service providers, to the extent permitted by law, is a statutory function of the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) in accordance with the Communications Regulation Act 2002. This role includes the monitoring of compliance by authorised operators with terms and conditions, including with respect to non-ionising radiation levels. ComReg is statutorily independent in the exercise of its functions. As Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, I have policy responsibility for matters pertaining to public exposure to non-ionising radiation. Irish policy in this area is informed by a substantial volume of internationally recognised scientific research and evidence. This includes the guidelines set down by the International Commission on Non- Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). These guidelines provide scientifically-based exposure limits that are applicable to both public and occupational exposure from electromagnetic fields (EMF). ICNIRP guidelines apply up to a frequency of 300 gigahertz (GHz). In terms of 5G roll-outs – the following stakeholders are involved:
1) The Minister for Communications is responsible for policy, including for matters pertaining to public exposure to non-ionising radiation. This responsibility covers the electromagnetic fields and frequency bands used by 5G technology. For more information please see http://www.dccae.ie/
2) ComReg manages Irelands radio spectrum. In managing the radio spectrum, ComReg obliges network operators under a Wireless Telegraphy Licence or a General Authorisation as applicable, to ensure that emissions from their networks do not exceed the public exposure limits established by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). For more information see www.comreg.ie/industry/radio-spectrum/site-viewer/non- ionising-radiation-information/ and www.icnirp.org/
ComReg have issued licenses (for 5G services) to 5 operators in the 3.6GHz frequency range, which was previously used by many wireless Broadband service providers. 3) Since May of this year the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) is the body with responsibility with regard to informing the general public in this matter. For more information in relation to same please see http://www.epa.ie/radiation/emf It should be noted that save where the rollout requires additional (mast) infrastructure which may require planning permission or a license under Section 254 of the Planning and Development Acts, Kerry County Council is not formally involved in the 5G rollout process.
Cllr. T. Barry noted the reply, and Members were informed that the Minister and Comreg would be contacted by Kerry County Council for a response.
Listowel MD Meeting 11 13th January 2020 2. Cllr. T. Barry: Following on from my previous motion calling for the “See Something, Say Something” Campaign to be rolled out across North Kerry - can the Members be informed of any progress on the matter.
REPLY: The MDO has made contact with the Gardai and is awaiting a costing to roll out the scheme across North Kerry. However, Listowel does have a very successful Community Text Alert Scheme operating within the town, which is available to all residents at a nominal cost. Tralee did not have a Community Text Alert Scheme operating within the town and this was the reason for establishing the “See Something, Say Something” Campaign.
MD Officer Mr. A. Smith advised the Members that Kerry County Council would need to identify a potential funding scheme, as it is not funded by Gardaí. Cllr. A. Thornton expressed her support for the Motion and Members are awaiting the Gardaí update.
3. Cllr. M. Kennelly: Has Kerry County Council created a Public Realm Strategy for the Listowel area?
REPLY: Kerry County Council has identified a Public Realm Strategy as a priority for Listowel. Funding is not available at this time and potential funding streams are currently being explored.
MD Manager Ms. J. McCarthy advised Cllr. M. Kennelly that a Heritage Plan and Economic plan has been developed for the town over the past couple of years for Listowel. For Public Realms, such a plan would be initiated after the inner relief road extension and Greenway Developments are completed.
4. Cllr. J. Moloney: Can funding be provided to clear and make accessible The North Kerry Way in Asdee?
REPLY: An application for funding to carry out works on the Shannon Way (North Kerry Way) was made in 2019 under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme. The application included for clearance works, signage and general enhancements to the existing trail. The funding application was unsuccessful. It is intended to re-examine the application with a view to reapplying in 2020 as the project is deemed very worthy of support. In the absence of funding through the ORIS there is no other obvious source of funding available for this project.
SEE Mr. E. Scanlon reminded the Members that simply there was not funding to complete the clearance. MD Manager Ms. J. McCarthy added that unfortunately the ORIS application was unsuccessful. Members and Executive hoped that some local money could be used to fund the project. The Manager agreed to investigate funding sources. Supporting the motion by Cllr. J. Moloney, Cllr. R. Beasley thanked Kerry County Council for their efforts.
(c) Questions
None.
Listowel MD Meeting 12 13th January 2020
20.01.13.03 Water, Environment, Fire & Library Services Directorate
(a) It was agreed to note the following report from the Water, Environment, Fire & Library Services Directorate which was circulated:
Water, Environment, Fire & Library Services Report
Listowel Municipal District
DATE: January 13th, 2020
Director of Service: John Breen
Environmental Protection
Business Unit Manager: Gerard O’Brien SEO
National Waste Enforcement Priorities 2020 We have recently been notified by the Department of Communications, Climate Action & Environment of the National Waste Enforcement Priorities for 2020. The following enforcement priorities have been agreed: Tackling significant illegal waste activity Enforcement actions to prevent, detect and prosecute those involved in dumping activities with an emphasis on unauthorised operators including skip hire companies and man in the van activities. Enforcement of bye-laws which require householders to demonstrate how their waste is being managed and identification of unauthorised waste collectors advertising on- line should continue to be prioritised. Synergies with the 2020 national Anti-dumping initiative should be developed to support local authorities in pursuance of this priority. Construction and Demolition Activity The unauthorised disposal of construction and demolition waste by C&D operators including skip hire companies with the focus on the management and movement of this material and to ensure that appropriate controls are in place at source. End-of Life Vehicles (ELV) Directive A targeted inspection programme of inspections of Authorised ELV sites and ELV operators and coordinated actions against unauthorised ELV sites and ELV operators will be undertaken. In addition, local authorities should undertake appropriate inspections to ensure compliance by waste facility operators with the enhanced traceability requirements introduced through S.I. No. 320/2014 - Waste Management (Facility Permit and Registration) (Amendment) Regulations 2014. Waste Collection- Household & Commercial Ensure compliance with waste collection permits, including the continued roll-out of the Brown Bin in designated areas and compliance by the commercial sector with the segregation requirements of S.I. No. 508 of 2009- Waste Management (Food Waste) Regulations 2009.
Listowel MD Meeting 13 13th January 2020 Multi-Agency Sites of Interest Sites which may contain waste that has been deposited without authorisation and where there are reasonable grounds to believe that there is ongoing illegal activity should be identified by local authorities and the relevant WERLA office informed in order that multi- agency responses can be initiated in a timely manner.
Environmental Services Activity Report 2019
Civic Amenity Site Transactions January – November 2019
Accumulative Waste Transactions for All Waste Stations Year Weighbridge % of weigh No. of bags % of bag Total no. of Transactions bridge transactions tickets sold Transactions transactions as % of as % of total Total transaction transactions 2019 15,257 20% 62,227 80% 77,484
Recycling – Accumulative Sales for All Sites 2019 Eco sense bags sales = 24,103
Accumulative Waste and Recycling Tonnage for All Sites
Year Weighbridge Recycling Waste Tonnage Tonnage for Eco Sense Bags 2019 3974.84 474.24
Dogs Statistics January – November 2019
Number of Dog 15,761 Licences Issued Number of Dogs 91 Fines issued Number of dogs 252 Rehomed
Listowel MD Meeting 14 13th January 2020 Fire Service
Business Unit Manager: Mr. Andrew McIlwraith, Chief Fire Officer
Operation of the Fire Brigade Service: • There were 1,199 mobilisations up to end of November 2019 compared to 1,109 mobilisations for the same period in 2018 which represents an 8% increase. • Gorse fires at 253 were up from 197 for the same period last year. This is a 28% increase. This is on par with last month’s percentage increase and indicates a levelling off of gorse fire mobilisations in the county. • Chimney fires were at 74 which is down from 110 for the same period last year; a 32.7% decrease • Road Traffic Collisions were at 122 is marginally up on the 117 figures from the same period last year.
2018 2019 Jan- Jan- Nov Nov FIRE OPERATIONS - DETAILS OF OPERATIONAL WORK Fires Number
Chimney Fires 110 74
Gorse Fires 197 253
Other Fires 228 188
Total 535 515
Special Services Number
Entrapment 26 22
Gas/Chemicals 1 6
Hazardous substances in transit not involving fire 0 2
Hazardous Substances non-Transit 0 4
Machinery 1 2
Miscellaneous 84 92
Other rescue 33 44
Rescue/Removal of persons from water 2 8
Listowel MD Meeting 15 13th January 2020 Road traffic accident 117 122
Water pumping/flooding 9 11
Total 273 313
False Alarms Number
Malicious 5 13
Good Intent 127 151
Total 132 164
Total Number of Incidents 940 992
Total Number of Mobilisations 1,109 1,199
BUILDING CONTROL- DETAILS OF OPERATIONAL WORK
Fire Safety Certificate Applications Received 141 175
Disability Access Certificate Applications Received 114 117
Commencement Notices Received 516 454
Fire Safety and Prevention: • There were further Annual Licensing Court sittings in November with notifications received by the Fire Authority of licensing applications before the Courts. Fire Officers carried out Inspections of premises on foot of notifications received and forwarded recommendations to the relevant Courts during November 2019. • Fire Officers continued with inspections of premises in respect of complaints and as otherwise required.
Building Control: • The number of Commencement Notices / 7 Day Notices received to the end of November 2019 was 454 which is a: o 12% decrease on the figure of 516 for the same period last year. • The building control section continues to process Disability Access Certificate applications and Fire Safety Certificate applications. Up to the end of November 2019 a total of 117 Disability Access Certificate applications and a total of 175 Fire Safety Certificate applications had been received. This represents: o 2.6% increase in Disability Access Certificate applications, and o 24.1% increase in Fire Safety Certificate applications over the same period in 2019.
Listowel MD Meeting 16 13th January 2020
Library Services
Business Unit Manager – Tommy O’Connor, Co. Librarian • Library Promotion Campaign 2020
The Local Government Management Agency [LGMA] is co-ordinating a libraries promotion campaign nationally in early 2020, funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development.
The campaign, which is being designed following a tender process by advertising and media agencies Ogilvy and GroupM, will feature radio advertising, cinemas, online TV or TV on Demand, websites, social media, etc. A national launch event will take place mid-Feb followed by the roll-out of the campaign. The overall tagline for the campaign is ‘Take a closer look’.
It is proposed that Saturday, 29 February [the Leap Day 2020] will be an Open Day for libraries nationally, when members of the public will be invited in to libraries to view the services that are on offer. All Kerry Libraries are open each Saturday and staff will be on hand to meet and greet new or returning members on that day with some events and induction tours taking place at each library. The main message is to welcome the public to come in, look and discover the wide range of services libraries offer. This theme will play through all marketing, advertising and PR activity.
• Historian in Residence
A Historian in Residence will take up a 3-month contract position with Kerry County Council in early January 2020. This contract position is funded under the Historian in Residence Grant Scheme 2019 as part of the Kerry County Council Decade of Centenaries programme.
The Historian will be based at Kerry Library Headquarters, Tralee and will work under the direction of Kerry Library staff to identify themes, events and notable figures; co-ordinate research work and timelines; meet community groups and to promote interest and engagement in history among a non-academic audience. Initial work will focus on the identification of Kerry material for the period 1912 - 1922 held at Kerry Library and at national institutions such as the National Library and the National Archives.
• Kerry Library events programme
Details of events at all libraries available at www.kerrylibrary.ie
KERRY COUNTY COUNCIL WATER SERVICES DIRECTORATE REPORT LISTOWEL MUNICIPAL DISTRICT Status Summary at 18th December 2019
Funding Priorities for Capital Projects Irish Water has indicated that it will prioritize funding, based on the key issues to be addressed, for capital projects.
Listowel MD Meeting 17 13th January 2020 In Water, priority will be given to any Scheme to which a Boil Water Notice (BWN) applies, and to any Scheme on the EPA Remedial Action List (RAL) and/or on a legal Direction from the EPA. In Wastewater, priority will be given to existing schemes in towns (agglomerations) to which ECJ Rulings apply, and to meeting the requirements of the EPA Discharge Licenses.
IRISH WATER MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE The following information has been provided by Irish Water. The Schemes in the Listowel Municipal District which are listed in Irish Water’s national Capital Investment Programme (the CIP) are outlined in the following tables:
WASTE WATER PROJECTS IN THE LISTOWEL M.D.
Project Status Listowel and Consulting Engineer Ove Arup Ltd has been appointed for the Ballylongford preparation of these Drainage Area Plans, and the Tralee and DRAINAGE Killarney DAPs. The preparation of the Ballylongford and the AREA PLANS Listowel Plans are scheduled to be complete by the end of 2020. New waste water treatment plant completed 2016; Drainage Area Plan being done in conjunction with Plans for Tralee, Ballylongford Killarney and Listowel; Connections Work Contract, value circa WW Scheme €120K - Tendering Docs, prepared by KCC, under review with IW; KCC submission for €245K funding for Well St and Quay St Sewers also with IW; Outcome of DAP will affect these projects. Work by Contractor underway since Sep. – completion in Lixnaw WWTP Autumn 2020
CAPITAL PROGRAMME This is a rolling programme of Minor Improvement Works which can be added to as the need arises.
COUNTYWIDE CAPITAL PROJECT Project Description Estimate Status Ongoing; 20No. WTPs Water Disinfection Upgrades at complete; 29No. Treatment €1.25M WTPs including Ballyheigue Plants works WSS, to be done
The list of current projects in the Listowel Municipal District is outlined in the following table:
LISTOWEL M.D. - CAPITAL WORKS PROGRAMME Project Description Estimate Status
Listowel MD Meeting 18 13th January 2020 Replacement 1100M of 2” NKRWSS: Steeple € 77,000 PVC main with 110MM Complete Road Tarbert uPVC pipe Ardfert North WSS – Replacement 720M of € Causeway Village 75mm Cast Iron with 236,000 Complete 160MM uPVC pipe NKRWSS Refurbishment of the River Scartleigh Pump Feale intake - screens, €700,000 Complete Station pumps, etc Planning Permission NKRWSS: Dromin granted 2017; €700,000 Listowel Water Remodelling of building Site
Treatment Plant Investigation completed Oct 19 NKRWSS: Quay St Replacement 800M of € 50,000 Ballylongford 110mm Cast Iron with Approved
150MM uPVC pipe Total APPROVED works €0.75M CURRENTLY to be done
NEW RESERVOIRS PROGRAMME The provision of ten new reservoirs throughout the county, to improve security of water supply, is planned. Tarbert is included and it is intended that a Planning application for a new reservoir beside the existing in Tieraclea will be lodged in early 2020. The combination of both reservoirs will ensure 24-hour storage for this area.
THE RURAL WATER PROGRAMME The administration and development of the Group Scheme sector continues to be a function of the Local Authorities under the guidance and supervision of the Department Of Housing, Planning and Local Government.
Irish Water has no authority, responsibility or involvement. The national Rural Water Programme 2019 – 2021 was published by the DoHP&LG in October. Substantial funding for Upgrade Prior To Takeover Works (mains’ replacement) at Clanmaurice and Lyreacrompane GWSSs has been included.
Takeover of Group Schemes Since 1 January 2014, responsibility for the Takeover of Group Schemes has transferred to Irish Water, and KCC is no longer in a position take over Group schemes. Irish Water has now developed a protocol to facilitate its Takeover of Group Schemes.
Following on the replacement of 1.7Km of old and deficient water mains at Dromartin, Causeway in January 2019, further similar Upgrade Works Prior To Take-Over are planned for the coming weeks at Knoppoge, Ballyduff on the Clanmaurice Group Water Scheme.
Listowel MD Meeting 19 13th January 2020 FIND and FIX PROGRAMME The Find and Fix Programme is a specially funded, countywide, capital project which was set up to search for leaks in the public water pipes and repair them. Tralee Town has been the initial focus area of the Find and Fix Programme in Kerry. The was commenced in January 2018 and involves the deployment of three new Kerry County Council van crews comprising one ‘Find’ van crew and two ‘Fix’ van crews. There is also the deployment of one van crew from Coffey Northumbrian Limited, the Irish Water appointed contractor whose ‘Find’ van crew is helping in building a repository of potential leak locations for follow-on investigation and repair by the Fix van crews. Following extensive works in Tralee, Dingle and Castleisland, the Council’s WSs crews are currently involved in works, some at night, in Listowel town.
Noting the report, Cllr. A. Thornton stated that Drones would be a great help in enforcing Litter Policy. They can be attained at a low cost and she queried whether there would be a grant available?
In reply, AO Environment Mr. G. O’Brien stated that there will be an application for funding for Drones. They are not the panacea for all the ills of litter and illegal dumping, but a tool for the process of stopping such activity. Cllr. A. Thornton agreed and stated that Waterford County Council recently made an application for drone technology that will help to deter illegal activity. It may lead to a few convictions and change perceptions. Mr. G. O’Brien agreed with the sentiments of Cllr. A. Thornton but felt with the whole area of consent and Data Protection/GDPR it will be very hard to secure any convictions based on drone evidence.
Cllr. R. Beasley supported the views of Cllr. A. Thornton and hoped that there would be some improvement in the policing of dog fouling, which is an epidemic in the towns and villages of North Kerry. In response, Mr. G. O’Brien noted the sentiments and agreed. He stated that Kerry County Council are going to target problem dumping areas and visit households who will need to prove how they dispose of their domestic rubbish. He notified the Members that Kerry County Council are investigating the allocation of resources for the project.
(b) Notices of Motion
1. Cllr. M. Kennelly: That Irish Water immediately replace the most affected water pipes in Listowel Town as again, recent outages with the mains disruptions have caused total chaos in our Town.
REPLY: Kerry County Council will apply to Irish Water for funding to replace the 250MM water main in Church Street.
SEE Water Services Mr. C. Mangan notified the Members that a dual job is needed on Church Road, with piping and road repairs required. It is envisaged that this will be done in tandem with the Caherdown/Church Street Road Improvement Works.
(c) Questions
Listowel MD Meeting 20 13th January 2020 1. Cllr. M. Foley: Can Kerry County Council have the information signs at Kilnaughton Graveyard relocated to aid the Graveyard Committee to construct a Stone Altar Shelter?
REPLY: The information signs will be relocated to facilitate the construction of the stone alter shelter.
Response noted by Cllr. M. Foley.
2. Cllr. J. Moloney: What is the current position on the extension of Causeway Graveyard?
REPLY: The Council are making every effort to ensure that the issues surrounding the acquisition of additional land for the Causeway Burial Ground will be expedited as soon as possible. The Council are acutely aware that the burial ground is nearing capacity.
Cllr. J. Moloney was satisfied with the response. Cllr. R. Beasley agreed with the sentiments proposed by Cllr. J. Moloney and hoped a compromise solution be found. Mr. G. O’Brien expects that a solution would be found by the end of Quarter 1 2020.
20.01.13.04 Housing Directorate
(a) It was agreed to note the following report from the Housing Directorate which was circulated:
HOUSING DIRECTORATE REPORT
LISTOWEL MUNICIPAL DISTRICT
DATE: 13th January 2020
Director of Service: Martin O’ Donoghue
Listowel MD Meeting 21 13th January 2020 Housing Report – LISTOWEL
Municipal District
• Housing Applications
No Current no. of approved applicants on the 767 housing list who have selected an area within this MD as an area of choice Net Need for Listowel MD (excluding transfers) 475 No. of applications received this year who have 191 selected an area within this MD as an area of choice No. of applications approved since the start of 165 this year who have selected an area within this MD as an area of choice
Breakdown by Bed No.
1-Bed 375 2-Bed 200 3-Bed 150 4-Bed 40 5-Bed 2 Total 767
• Void Management
Municipal District breakdown No Current no. of dwellings under repair and 15 unallocated Current no. of dwellings under repair and allocated 0 Current no. of dwellings awaiting repairs 10 Current no. of repaired dwellings awaiting allocation 1 Current no. of repaired dwellings allocated awaiting 8 occupation Total No of Vacant dwellings in Municipal 34 District
• Social Housing Options
Social Housing Options in New tenancies Current No of MD since the start of tenancies the year LA Housing 44 915 RAS 8 115 Leasing 9 50 HAP 49 155 Total no of Tenancies 110 1235
Listowel MD Meeting 22 13th January 2020 4 Housing Construction/Acquistion Programme
Schemes/S.R. dwellings at planning/design stage in Municipal District Location No of Type of Estimated Estimated dwellings dwellings start date completion date Baile An 10 8no. 3 bed Feb 2020 Dec 2020 Gharraí, 2no. 2 bed Lixnaw, Final Phase Woodview 22 4no. 3 bed Oct 2020 Nov 2021 Place,Tarbert 8no. 2 bed 10no.1 bed Marconi (South) 14 6no. 3 bed Oct 2020 Nov 2021 Ballybunion 4no. 2 bed 4no. 1 bed Rusheen, 7 2no. 3 bed Dec 2020 Dec 2021 Ballylongford 2no. 2 bed 3no. 1 bed
Schemes/ S.R. dwellings under construction in Municipal District
Location No of Type of Start date Estimated dwellings dwellings completion date Upper William 7 7no. 2 bed Dec 2018 Dec 2019 Street, Listowel Glénach 20 10 no. 2 bed Dec 2019 Dec 2020 (Marconi) 10 no. 3 bed Ballybunion
House Acquisitions since the start of the year Location No of Type of Month of dwellings dwellings purchase Listowel 1 3 bed March Duagh 1 3 bed April Listowel 1 3 bed July Listowel 1 3 bed October Lixnaw 1 3 bed October Listowel 2 3 bed November Lixnaw 1 5 bed December Abbeydorney 9 3 bed December Listowel 1 2 bed December The purchase of a further 2 no. houses is currently being progressed.
Listowel MD Meeting 23 13th January 2020
5 Maintenance/Improvement of Housing Stock
Since 1st January 2019, 758 requests for repairs have been received for the Listowel Municipal District.
6 Housing Adaptation /Housing Aid for Older People Grants
Since 1st January 2019, 184 grants have been allocated in the Listowel Municipal District.
7 Bedroom Extensions Since 1st January 2019, no bedroom extensions have been allocated in the Listowel Municipal District.
Noting the report, Cllr. T. Barry expressed his opinion that he felt communication is very poor from the Kerry County Council Housing Department and could very much be improved.
(a) Notices of Motion
1. Cllr. T. Barry: That Kerry County Council will replace the Windows and Doors at [Details with Directorate]
REPLY: In March 2019 Kerry County Councils Housing Directorate applied to the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government for funding under the “Energy Efficiency/Retrofitting Programme Phase 2”. [Details with Directorate] was included in this funding submission. The application was successful and the works to replace the Windows and Doors at [Details with Directorate] will be completed before the end of Quarter 2 2020.
Cllr. T. Barry noted the response.
2. Cllr. M. Foley: That Kerry County Council provide the number of applications received under the Repair and Lease Scheme for the Listowel Municipal District in 2019 and of those received, how many were successful.
REPLY: There were 14 applications received by Kerry County Council under the Repair and Lease Scheme in the Listowel Municipal District in 2019. 9 of the applications were in areas where there was insufficient need for social housing. 3 others were deemed to be unsuitable as the properties were too small for modern renting standards and for reasons of access difficulties. 1 letter of offer has been issued to the owner and the remaining property is being assessed for consideration.
In response, Cllr. M. Foley expressed his belief that the scheme is disastrous and not an incentive for owners of empty houses to become involved. He felt that there needs to be more incentive for empty house owners to get involved. He stated that there are empty houses in every village in North Kerry. Mr. T. Brosnan advised that there will be a concerted Media Campaign to increase awareness of the Scheme in Quarter 1.
Listowel MD Meeting 24 13th January 2020
3. Cllr. M. Kennelly: Can Kerry County Council give an update on the amount of houses in the Listowel MD Area that have been vacant for 1 year or more and reasons as to why these houses have not been allocated?
REPLY: Currently there are 28 vacant houses in the Listowel MD Area for more than 1 year.
The 28 houses are Vacant for the following reasons:
Voids Programme 18 houses are in the voids programme, • 5 houses, works are complete and are due to be allocated in Q1 2020 • 1 house, works are ongoing and are due to be completed End of Jan 2020 • 12 houses, require significant works,
It is worth noting that, some properties require substantial works to enable them to be re-let. These properties required a formal procurement process – preparation of tender/ specification documentation, formal procurement period, tender/ quotation evaluation and lengthy construction period.
Fire Damage 1 house (insurance claim ongoing)
Oil Damage 1 house (insurance claim ongoing)
Buy & Renew/Acquired 4 houses, works have commenced in 2 houses and are due to be completed in Q1 2020, the remaining 2 houses will be ready for allocation by the end of Q2 2020
There are currently 4 houses that have legal issues (e.g. boundaries/right of way etc.)
Kerry County council is committed to ensuring that any property in our ownership, which becomes vacant, is re-tenanted as soon as possible subject to available finance.
Members welcomed the update from Mr. T. Brosnan. Cllr. M. Kennelly expressed his frustration and hoped that the Housing Department could process allocations quicker in the future. In response, Mr. T. Brosnan reminded the Members that when tenants do leave a Council Property, it is after a lengthy tenancy, and the house then shall be upgraded to the highest standard, before it allocated again. The turnover takes place as quickly as time allows.
Listowel MD Meeting 25 13th January 2020 (b) Questions
1. Cllr. A. Thornton: How many places do Kerry County Council have for homeless in the Listowel Municipal District?
REPLY: Kerry County Council has in place emergency accommodation across the County to deal with needs as they arise (not all emergency accommodation needs arise due to homelessness). Kerry County Council has such emergency accommodation available in Listowel for any needs that may arise in the North Kerry area.
Given the nature of this area and the sensitive and confidential nature of engagement with homeless or emergency accommodation service it is Council policy not to comment on the location of such accommodation or on the number at any particular location.
However, it can be confirmed that at this point in time the Council has secured sufficient accommodation to deal with current needs arising.
In reply, Cllr. A. Thornton stated that she was not satisfied with the response and will be bringing this Motion to Full Council.
2. Cllr. A. Thornton: Can Kerry County Council please confirm whether a decision has been regarding funding for extensions?
REPLY: The funding of extensions to Kerry County Council’s housing stock by the Department of Housing is from the same budget as the Housing Adaptation Grant for Kerry County Council stock. The 2019 funding was fully expended. The limited number of extensions approved within the programme will be completed as planned.
Given the prices being tendered for extensions at this time It is becoming increasing difficult to fund extensions given the limited budgets available through central Government funding of this programme – one individual extension can equate to a third of overall funding available for other necessary works.
The Council continues to review the availability of funding for extensions subject to available national funding. We await notification of the 2020 allocation.
Response noted by Cllr. A. Thornton, but she also stated her hope that communication from the Housing Department will improve.
Listowel MD Meeting 26 13th January 2020 20.01.13.05 Roads, Transportation & Marine Directorate
(a) It was agreed to note the following Report which was circulated:
Listowel Municipal District Meeting
Date: 13th January 2020
Report from the Director of Roads, Transportation & Marine
Director of Service: Charlie O’Sullivan
Listowel Roads Municipal District Operations Restoration Improvement Programme 2019 & 2020
The Restoration Improvement programme has been completed for 2019. The R.I. programme for 2020 will be as agreed previously and will be brought before the Councillors in Q1 2020.
Restoration Maintenance Programme 2019 & 2020
The Restoration Maintenance programme has been completed for 2019. The R.M. programme for 2020 will be brought before the Councillors in Q1 2020.
Community Involvement Scheme 2019 & 2020
Three schemes were completed under the Community Involvement scheme programme in 2019. We are awaiting details of funding for possible schemes in 2020. A number of schemes from the Listowel MD have been submitted for consideration.
Local Improvement Schemes 2019
Works are substantially complete on all the funded schemes for 2019. We are awaiting details of funding for L.I.S in 2020 and will schedule the works in with our programmed roads works.
Listowel MD Meeting 27 13th January 2020 Maintenance works Works will be carried out in Q1 2020 on the road network to deal with poor conditions. Priority will be again given to the primary road network to ensure that these important roads are up to the required standard.
N69 – Inner relief Road – Preparatory works for the contract are still ongoing. As previously confirmed the project is on schedule to go to site in 2020.
R556 – Rathscannel Road -Site investigation works are substantially completed following on from the site clearance works. The design on the road has been completed as far as it can be taken pending the results of the site investigations. It is not envisaged that the results of the ground investigations will significantly alter the proposed design. It is hoped upon completion of the design to progress the planning application for the project – probable that this will involve a Part VIII planning application. It is intended to close the R556 at Rathscannel to through traffic from Friday 24th of January. The proposed closure is progressing following a review of the effectiveness of the existing arrangements, the safety on the road and following consultation with the locals living along the stretch of road. The closure will be advertised in print on Thursday 16th of January.
EirGrid Project The installation of the duct banks linking the ESB stations at Kilmorna and Killpaddogue is substantially complete. A section adjacent to the Knockanure GAA pitch as well as a section on the L-1023 at Kilmorna near the sub-station remain to be completed. The project will shortly see the commencement of the cable pulling and jointing. We will be agreeing a programme for these works with EirGrid. This will inform our programme for the full and final reinstatement of the road network – particularly in the Moyvane area.
GNI – Gas To Listowel This project is substantially complete. We are awaiting confirmation from GNI in relation to one section of Gas main in the town as to whether they intend to proceed with the works or not.
Listowel MD Meeting 28 13th January 2020
Status Report on Hedge cutting in Listowel Municipal District Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb TOTAL Number of hedge cutting complaints received since 1st October 2019 from Councillors & Others with breakdown by month 7 10 8 6 8 39
Other Breakdown of Complaints (Public, KCC, Cllr 6 Deputies) 33
Number of these complaints investigated. 38 Number of these complaints identified for follow up action 37 1 on hold
Number of Hedge cutting Notices Issued Advisory 92 Formal 53
Number of Hedges cut by landowner / occupier following issuing of notice Advisory 37 Formal 31
Number of hedges cut by Council where landowner / occupier failed to comply with notice 7
Number of Invoices Issued where hedge cut by Council and value of same 0
Number of cases referred to law agents for legal action, where invoices not paid. 0
Listowel MD Meeting 29 13th January 2020
Housing Operations Update Report 13th January 2020
Works Report to the 17th December 2019.
Voids Works Completed
• 1 Bed Bungalow 30 Cloghers Lixnaw • 1 bed Bungalow 27 Riverside Close, Abbeydorney • 3 bed two Storey 31 Feale Drive, Listowel • 1 bed Bungalow 113 Feale Drive, Listowel
Underway
• 3 bed two storey 11 Cloghers Lixnaw 70% • 3 bed two storey 52 Ballygologue, Listowel 95% • 1 bed Bungalow 08 Convent View Listowel 95% • 1 bed Bungalow 15 Courthouse lawn Listowel 30% • 2 Bed Bungalow 22 Woodgrove Moyvane 20% • 1 bed Bungalow 95 Ballygologue Park Listowel 40%
For Tender • 3 bed 2 storey fire damaged house, 16 Marian Terrace Causeway – Design and scope complete. Awaiting approval to proceed to tendering stage. • 3 bed two storey 73 O’Connell’s Avenue Listowel – tendering complete. Awaiting approval to appoint contractor. • All tendering to be conducted through the new Minor Building Works Framework.
Works to • Works underway to 04 and 09 Slí na Faiche Lixnaw. Acquisitions Extensions • Extension to 2 bed bungalow in Abbeydorney. Construction works ongoing. • Tendering underway for extension to 3 bed two storey house in Listowel.
Planned • Solid fuel range replacement program ongoing. Maintenance • Chimneys rebuilt on three properties. Programme Remediation • Twelve properties have been impacted by oil leaks. Consultants have works due been engaged. Headquarters is dealing with the potential remediation to Oil Leaks works.
Listowel MD Meeting 30 13th January 2020 Stock • Re-survey of properties missed in previous surveys to be ongoing as Survey resources & staff available
Capital Infrastructure Unit Listowel Municipal District Meeting Update Report 13th January 2020
CAPITAL INFRASTRUCTURE UNIT
Great Southern Trail Extension to Listowel:
Part 8 planning permission for the project was approved and grant funding of €3.5m has been allocated towards the project. The sod-turn was carried out on the 29th November 2019. It is anticipated that it will take 18 months to complete works.
Listowel Municipal District Meeting Update Report 13th January 2020
No. of faults reported since last meeting: 65 No. of faults repaired within 12 working days: 42 No. of faults repaired outside 12 working days: 1 Outstanding Repairs not completed within 12 working days - list these locations and comment if there is a particular reason.
This report was generated on 18/12/2019
Job Ticket Defect Unit Date ID Description Number Postal Street Name Reported Reason Causeway road, 11732 Lamp out 5944 Ballyheigue 21/11/2019 Access Issues Specialist 11719 Lamp out 9362 Market St, Listowel 18/11/2019 materials required
Clieveragh Flood Relief Scheme
The replacement of the existing culvert on the R552 at Clieveragh is the most critical element of the works proposed as part of the Clieveragh Flood Relief Scheme.
The design and procurement of this element is being progressed by the Road Design Office at present. The site investigations have been completed and our Designers (MWP) are engaging with the service providers to agree service diversions and finalise the design of the culvert.
Once the design has been finalised, the culvert replacement element will be put out to tender and construction will follow subject to agreement with adjoining
Listowel MD Meeting 31 13th January 2020 landowners, and compliance with any statutory bodies (i.e. OPW (Section 50), Fisheries (licence) etc.)
(b) Notices of Motion
1. Cllr. T. Barry: That Kerry County Council will address the issue of potholes in the Ashgrove Estate in Listowel. REPLY: These potholes have been repaired recently.
Response noted by Cllr. T. Barry. 2. Cllr. T. Barry: That Kerry County Council will carry out repairs to the road surface at Lower Aughrim, Moyvane.
REPLY: The road will be added to the repairs list and we will try to get to it as soon as possible once resources allow. Response noted by Cllr. T. Barry. 3. Cllr. R. Beasley: That Kerry County Council arrange to have the railing at Gale Bridge on the Listowel to Ballybunion Road painted. It has looked very neglected for many years.
REPLY: The funding provided for bridges is strictly for structural works rather than aesthetic works, and as such cannot be used for this purpose. An estimate to carry out the works can be prepared should the Councillor wish to allocate funding towards the completion of the requested works.
Noting the response, Cllr. R. Beasley stated that Gale Bridge is in a deplorable condition and would welcome an estimate from Kerry County Council. Cllr. J. Moloney supported this motion.
4. Cllr. R. Beasley: That Kerry County Council carry out repairs on the road outside the entrance to the Weigh Bridge at [Details with Directorate] which is in a very bad condition and there is a water pipe which supplies a long area almost exposed, it would cause major problems in the area, if broken. REPLY: This area has been patched several times but due to the high volumes of heavy traffic using the entrance it has failed. Improvement works are required at this location (approx. 20m x 2m). We will look to carry out these works once resources are available and in suitable weather conditions. We will liaise with our colleagues in Water Services in relation to the observed water main and will look to resolve that issue while our road works are being undertaken.
Cllr. R. Beasley noted the response.
5. Cllr. R. Beasley: That Kerry County Council examine the amount of traffic going through Causeway Village with a view to make alterations to slow the speed down.
Listowel MD Meeting 32 13th January 2020 REPLY: It is acknowledged that the peak time traffic volumes are high for a village the size of Causeway, particularly along the R551. Kerry County Council anticipates that the commissioning of the pedestrian crossing traffic control on the R551 will help to improve pedestrian safety crossing the road and impact on traffic speed through the village. It is hoped to complete the commissioning works shortly. We have also discussed the matter with the Gardaí in relation to speed enforcement through the village.
Cllr. R. Beasley noted the response and welcomed the idea of a Pedestrian Crossing on the R551.
6. Cllr. R. Beasley: That Kerry County Council carry out repairs on all the Secondary roads in the Listowel Municipal District Area as they are in a terrible state due to the lack of maintenance money at the end of 2019.
REPLY: The Councillor will be aware that there was significant repair works carried out to the secondary network in the District in 2019 within the constraints of the budgets available. It is anticipated that the maintenance budget available to the District for works on the local road network will be the same as the allocation in 2019. This will allow for broadly the same level of service to the local road networks in 2020.It will not be possible to carry out repairs on all secondary roads in the Listowel MD as requested. SEE Mr. E. Scanlon advised the Councillor that it is a challenge to work to the Maintenance Budget but stated that works were ongoing up until the year end of 2019.
7. Cllr. M. Foley: That Kerry County Council would advise on the up to date position on resurfacing of the L1010-6 from Tarbert Village to the entrance of the Landbank. REPLY: The need to widen and upgrade the L-1010 from Tarbert to the industrial landbank was identified circa 2005, and which were substantially progressed in 2008/2009 with the proposals by Shannon LNG at the time for development on the landbank. The lands for the road improvement were secured under a Compulsory Purchase Order in 2009. The widening and re-alignment of the roads is primarily to serve any developments on the zoned lands.
It was a condition of the grants of permission for developments on the industrial landbank, in 2008 and 2013, that the developers would contribute towards the cost of the road improvements, and the lands require for the works were funded from levies paid at the time.
The construction of this road improvement scheme is contingent on funding, either from the existing proposed developments which have planning permission or potentially as a condition on any future developments that may be granted on the zoned lands.
A number of utility companies have been granted licences to lay underground services, some of which are complete and with the remaining services planned to be installed later this year. In line with the agreed national protocols, there will be funds available from the EirGrid project for the permanent restoration of the section of the L-1010 affected by their works. The reinstatement works will be undertaken once their installation works have been completed.
Cllr. M. Foley noted the response from SEE Mr. E. Scanlan.
Listowel MD Meeting 33 13th January 2020
8. Cllr. M. Foley: That Kerry County Council would repair the dangerous pot hole on the L1006-22 near Corridan’s cross.
REPLY: This road will be added to the repairs list and we will look to carry out the requested works as soon as possible.
Cllr. M. Foley noted the response.
9. Cllr. M. Foley: That Kerry County Council would carry out urgent repairs on the L10467-0 at Kilfeighny South. REPLY: It should be noted that the deterioration on this road is down to recent forestry harvesting works carried out in the 3rd and 4th quarter of 2019. Kerry County Council had intended to carry out repairs to this road in late 2019 but due to the continuing removal of timber from the nearby forestry it was decided to hold off on the repairs until those works were completed. It is planned to carry out repairs on this road later in Q1 2020 once weather conditions are suitable for the type and scale of works required. 10. Cllr. M. Foley: That Kerry County Council would repair the L-6004-0 at Glanawillin, Asdee. REPLY: The L-6004 road is the local secondary road to Litter strand and is in good condition. The Glounawillian road is a local tertiary road (L-10005) and it is assumed this is the road being referred to in the question from the Councillor. Like all local tertiary roads, it has proven difficult to provide maintenance to this road as we have concentrated on keeping the primary road network maintained within the maintenance resources available to the district. However, this road can be added to the 2020 drainage programme and will be added to the repairs list and we will try to get to as soon as resources allow.
11. Cllr. M. Foley: That Kerry County Council would carry out repairs on the Motara Road on Ballylongford. REPLY: This road has been repaired recently. Cllr. M. Foley welcomed the responses.
12. Cllr. A. Thornton: When will the R556 Planning Application be ready for submission?
REPLY: The project is currently the subject of an internal consultation and review as part of our standard procedures. It is hoped that the critical Environmental ‘assessment’ will be completed in the coming days. This assessment is crucial to determining the appropriate planning mechanism to be pursued to secure planning approval. To date nothing has been identified that would require a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requiring a planning application to An Bord Pleanála. However, until the full assessment is concluded, we cannot assume that an EIA will not be required.
Section 179 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 to 2018 and Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001-2018 outline the actions that must be taken for developments by, on behalf of, or in partnership with local authorities, where an EIA or AA is not required.
Listowel MD Meeting 34 13th January 2020 Section 179 proposals must now be presented to elected members within a maximum period of 20 weeks of being first issued for public consultation.
The following timeframes are applicable: i. Public consultation – 4 weeks minimum ii. Submissions – 2 weeks minimum iii. Chief Executive Report – 8 weeks maximum iv. Council Decision – 6 weeks maximum
If an EIA is not required remains the position on completion of the environmental assessment, planning approval will be sought through the Part VIII mechanism subject to the approval of Senior Management Team (SMT). It is hoped to be in a position to bring the project before SMT before the end of January 2020. If approved by SMT, the project will then go for public consultation. Councillors advised of the upcoming closure of the R556 Rathscannell Road. There will be barriers placed at the beginning of the road and throughout. Councillors requested that Gardaí be advised and to police the road where possible. The Manager referred to the Roads, Transportation & Marine report in relation to the formal closing.
MD Manager Ms. J. McCarthy informed the Members that a Letter shall be forwarded to the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, for a response to the Members.
13. Cllr. A. Thornton: That Kerry County Council confirm when works will commence on the North Kerry Greenway and whether there is a schedule of works agreed.
REPLY: Works have commenced on the North Kerry Greenway. Additional outdoor staff are currently being recruited to deliver the scheme and negotiations are ongoing with landowners in relation to accommodation works. Progress reports will be given to the members of the Listowel MD as the scheme is progressed. The projected completion date for the works is mid-2021.
Members welcomed the response from the Executive and looked forward to updates on the Greenway works.
14. Cllr. A. Thornton: Can Kerry County Council confirm the update on the Cloisters Footpath at Abbeydorney.
REPLY: Immediately before Christmas, agreement was finally reached with the owner of the final piece of land required to build the footpath and the lands required to complete the footpath were secured by Kerry County Council. The legal transfer of this land is being processed at the moment. It is intended that the works will commence following the completion of this registration process.
Cllr. A. Thornton welcomed the response and all Members stated their appreciated of the efforts of Kerry County Council over the period.
15. Cllr. A. Thornton: Can Kerry County Council review the Tim Kennelly Roundabout and the level of traffic passing through it.
Listowel MD Meeting 35 13th January 2020
REPLY: The information in relation to the traffic count data, origin and destination details etc. is known to Kerry County Council. A copy of the data is available in the LMD offices and can be made available to the Councillor should she so wish. The information was collected and reviewed as part of the design work undertaken on the Inner Relief road scheme and informed the final approved design of the scheme.
Noting the response, Cllr. A. Thornton stated that the traffic is particularly bad from the Tarbert Side. SEE Mr. E. Scanlon stated that Kerry County Council can ask the NRDO to monitor the area.
16. Cllr. M. Kennelly: Can Kerry County Council carry out a safety audit of all street signage located on footpaths in our towns and villages in North Kerry as pedestrian safety is paramount?
REPLY: Unfortunately, the resources are not available to carry out such an audit, given the number of towns and villages in the Listowel MD. However, if there are any individual locations/issues causing concern to the Councillor these can be examined if they are identified to us.
MD Manager Ms. J. McCarthy told the Members to identify any such signs that are a possible height danger and to notify the area office.
17. Cllr. M. Kennelly: That Kerry County Council immediately install ramps on the approach roads into Abbeydorney Village, Cork County Council have installed these safety measures in the village of Banteer, Co. Cork which had identical safety issues that Abbeydorney are experiencing.
REPLY: Following the decision of the Councillors in relation to the proposed Section 38 for Abbeydorney at the last MD meeting, our Road design section is to undertake a review of the entire scheme. The review will include the provision of ramps on the approach road as an option to be re-examined.
SEE Mr. E. Scanlon advised the Members that the Design Manual for Urban Roads & Streets (DMURS) Policy must be adhered to, and a thorough review will be undertaken, when the Abbeydorney project is revisited.
18. Cllr. M. Kennelly: Has Kerry County Council produced a report on the serious road safety concerns on the Duagh road at the Woodford location?
REPLY: Kerry County Council’s Road Design Office has carried out a survey and prepared a preliminary design for the Woodford bends location. This design is being assessed for buildability and land take requirements among other items. Once this has been completed and the definitive land take requirements have been identified, consultation will begin with the relevant landowners on the possibility of securing the lands required. Kerry County Council will then need to identify a possible source of funding for this project.
Listowel MD Meeting 36 13th January 2020
Response noted by Cllr. M. Kennelly.
19. Cllr. J. Moloney: To ask Kerry County Council if they will consider an extension to the Lifeguard Hut at Ballyheigue Beach to provide new Public Toilets as the current ones are too far from the beach and the Lifeguard Hut would be an ideal location. REPLY: There are very specific Blue Flag beach requirements in relation to the distance of toilet facilities from the blue flag beach. The facilities at Ballyheigue meet the criterion as set out. However, Kerry County Council did identify the location of the Lifeguard Hut as being suitable for the type of development requested in the Notice of Motion. The provision of the toilets as requested was included in a detailed submission made by Kerry County Council under a broad beach facility improvement plan submitted to the URDF scheme. This application was not successful in 2019 and as a result there is no funding available to complete the requested works.
Response noted by Cllr. J. Moloney.
20. Cllr. J. Moloney: That Kerry County Council repair the road leading into Derryco Graveyard, Ballyduff.
REPLY: This local tertiary road (L-10095) was used by the OPW as the haulage route for their embankment works along the Cashen. Following the completion of these works, the road has deteriorated significantly. Kerry County Council has made several representations to the OPW without success for funding to repair the road. The road will be added to the repairs list and we will try to get to it as soon as possible once resources allow.
Noting the reply, Cllr. J. Moloney expressed his surprise as to why the OPW are not accountable for the public road in its current state. Councillors A. Thornton and R. Beasley supported the motion of Cllr. J. Moloney. Kerry County Council shall contact the OPW to reiterate request for funding.
21. Cllr. J. Moloney: That the missing section of footpath from Causeway Village to Farran Hill be included in the Footpath Programme. REPLY: The upper section of this path up to school was completed in 2019. There is a short section opposite the church carpark where there is currently no kerb line. This section remains to be completed and can be considered for inclusion in any future footpath programs or could be funded from allocations from Councillors.
SEE Mr. E. Scanlon to report on cost to Cllr. J. Moloney.
22. Cllr. J. Moloney: The crossing outside Yallop’s Bar, Causeway has lights that were never switched on. Can Kerry County Council rectify this?
REPLY: Kerry County Council’s electrical Department are working on commissioning these lights with a view to having them operational as soon as possible.
Listowel MD Meeting 37 13th January 2020 Response noted by Cllr. J. Moloney.
23. Cllr. J. Moloney: Following my motion from early 2019 has any change been made to the timing of the traffic lights in The Square, Listowel?
REPLY: Following on from the motion in early 2019, Kerry County Council’s electrical section reviewed the timing/settings of the lights at this location and observed the movement of both pedestrians and traffic. It was felt that the settings as they were provided appropriate time for both pedestrians and motorists to travel through the crossings and that any alteration to the timings to provide more time for motorists would result in longer wait times for pedestrians which in turn would lead to pedestrians crossing the road while traffic was flowing thereby increasing the risk of an incident. SEE Mr. E. Scanlon to review and report to Cllr. J. Moloney.
(b) Questions
1. Cllr. R. Beasley: What is the up to date with Farran Road Causeway which is in a terrible state?
REPLY: The Farran road is a Local Tertiary road (L-10437) and was damaged during water mains installation works. There is a fund available from Water Services to complete rehabilitation works to the road in line with the nationally agreed protocols. However, the monies available will not come close to covering the works required to bring the road up to appropriate standards. As outlined previously, this road has been submitted for inclusion in the 2020 CIS scheme. This is by far and away the best means of ensuring a comprehensive rehabilitation of the road occurs following the water mains installation works. The road will be added to the repairs list and we will try to get to it as soon as possible once resources allow.
Cllr. R. Beasley welcomed the response and hoped that maintenance can be completed as soon as possible.
2. Cllr. T. Barry: Will Kerry County Council carry out repairs to the L1010 road from the Woodview Estate to Tarbert Comprehensive School?
REPLY: The road will be added to the repairs list and we will try to get to it as soon as possible once resources allow. It is listed for full resurfacing under the Restoration Improvement scheme in 2022
3. Cllr. T. Barry: Will Kerry County Council carry out repairs to the road surface at Deerpark, Lixnaw as it is in very poor condition?
REPLY: The road in question is a local tertiary road (L-10099). There is a short section (approx. 70m) at the end of the public road in poor condition. The road will be added to the repairs list and we will try to get to it as soon as possible once resources allow.
4. Cllr. T. Barry: Will Kerry County Council carry out repairs to the L6031 road at Clounprohus, Moyvane?
Listowel MD Meeting 38 13th January 2020 REPLY: This road has been repaired recently.
Cllr. T. Barry welcomed the responses and praised the efforts of the Roads Team.
5. Cllr. M. Foley: Can Kerry County Council construct a footpath at Rusheen, Ballylongford, on the R551 from V31 F382 to V31 TD23?
REPLY: This location has been examined. There are a number of issues with the requested works. There is no existing path from the village to the V31 F382. It is not advisable to construct a path between these two points without it linking to an existing path. Secondly, a section of the proposed path would be outside the speed limit location. Again, this is not advisable. Finally, it should also be noted that there is currently no funding available to complete the requested works.
Cllr. M. Foley noted the response but reiterated his view that the area is really dangerous. He advised the Chamber that there has been 3 accidents recently here. SEE Mr. E. Scanlon advised the Councillor that he will assess the area in Quarter 1 to see what could be done.
6. Cllr. M. Foley: Can Kerry County Council make the River Walk in Listowel from the Bridge to Carroll’s Yard wheelchair and pram friendly?
REPLY: The river walk is approximately 1,150m long from Carroll’s Yard to the Bridge. The cost of providing a Tarmacadam finish to the pathway suitably resilient to deal with the intermittent flooding that occurs on sections of the path would be in the order of €100,000. There is currently no obvious source of funding available to cover the costs of completing the works requested.
MD Manager Ms. J. McCarthy notified the Members that this area has been on the radar through the work of the Tidy Towns Group. She stated that a portion of the higher part of the river walk can be aligned with the Greenway.
7. Cllr. M. Foley: Can Kerry County Council erect uneven surface signs on the R552 between Corridon’s Cross and the junction for Coolard because of the dangerous undulations on the road?
REPLY: The signage requested is already in place along this road. We will review the adequacy of the signs already in place. It should also be noted that this section of the R552 will be resurfaced under the Restoration Improvement programme in the 2020.
Cllr. M. Foley satisfied with the response.
8. Cllr. A. Thornton: What works could be done on the Ballyhennessy/ Lixnaw road in advance of the next Roads Programme?
REPLY: The road in question is a local secondary road (L-6075) and it is acknowledged that this road is in a poor condition. The road requires complete reconstruction. However, it is not on the current roads programme and as a result the funding required is not available. We
Listowel MD Meeting 39 13th January 2020 intend to carry out works from our limited maintenance budget on this road in the near future to address the worst sections of the road.
Cllr. A. Thornton welcomed the reply and hoped improvements can be made as soon as possible.
9. Cllr. A. Thornton: What is the update on the lights outside Kilmoyley School?
REPLY: These lights will be upgraded following the recent CCA allocation.
Cllr. A. Thornton satisfied with the response.
10. Cllr. M. Kennelly: Can Kerry County Council carry out immediate road repair works on the Irremore road in Listowel?
REPLY: The road in question is a local secondary road (L-6055). The road will be added to the repairs list and we will try to get to it as soon as possible once resources allow.
11. Cllr. M. Kennelly: Can Kerry County Council carry out immediate road repair works on the Gael road leading to Dromerin?
REPLY: The road in question is a local secondary road (L-6055). It is acknowledged that this road is in a poor condition. The road will be added to the repairs list and we will try to get to it as soon as possible once resources allow.
12. Cllr. M. Kennelly: Can Kerry County Council carry out immediate road repair works from Lenamore Cross to Tullamore?
REPLY: The road in question is a local secondary road (L-6021). It is acknowledged that this road is in a poor condition. The road will be added to the repairs list and we will try to get to it as soon as possible once resources allow.
13. Cllr. M. Kennelly: Can Kerry County Council carry out immediate road repair works at Kiltean, Dromerin/Lisselton?
REPLY: The road in question is a local Primary road (L-1011). The road is in a poor condition and has been repaired on numerous occasions in recent times. The road is on the Restoration Improvement programme for 2020 where there is an allocation of €150,000 available to carry out significant reconstruction works that will address the poor structural condition of the road.
Cllr. M. Kennelly welcomed the responses and hoped that improvements can be made to the requested roads in 2020.
20.01.13.06 Any Other Business
Listowel MD Meeting 40 13th January 2020 6. Motions / Questions relevant to other Directorates or Issues not relevant to Kerry County Council Business
(a) Notices of Motion
1. Cllr. A. Thornton: That Kerry County Council consider what can be done to have Kilflynn village under one Municipal District.
REPLY: Kilflynn Village in its entirety is within the Listowel Municipal District. The Municipal District boundaries are set by the Electoral Boundary Commission.
Cllr. A. Thornton welcomed the response from the Executive.
2. Cllr. A. Thornton: That the Members agree to write to the Department of Justice regarding resolving issues surrounding the roll out of CCTV in Housing Estates.
REPLY: This is a matter for resolution by the Members.
Letter is to be sent to the Department of Justice by Kerry County Council.
(b) Questions
None
(c) Correspondence
1. Letter from Ms Rose Wall regarding the Listowel Business & Community Alliance; Spirit of Christmas Event of November 16th, 2019.
(d) Agree Dates for the Following Meetings:
To agree the following proposed dates for the first holding of Listowel Ordinary Municipal District Meetings for 2020:
• 9th March
• 11th May
• 13th July
• 14th September
• 9th November
(e) Matters arising from the Minutes as confirmed at 1 above
Listowel MD Meeting 41 13th January 2020 (f) Any Other Business/Aon Gnó Eile
The Members agreed on the MD Awards nominations that are to be held on Friday 21st February next at the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney.
The Meeting concluded at 12.15pm.
The Members agreed that the next Listowel MD Meeting is scheduled for Monday 9th March at 10am.
______Ms. J. McCarthy Cllr. J. Moloney Cathaoirleach of Listowel Meetings Administrator Municipal District
Listowel MD Meeting 42 13th January 2020