Kildare County Council

KILDARE COUNTY COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting of Clane Area Committee held on Tuesday 14th July 2004 at 2.00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, St. Mary’s, Naas as adopted.

Present: Councillors Liam Doyle, Michael Fitzpatrick, Tony McEvoy and Brendan Weld. Also present were Mr. A.C. Talbot, Meetings Administrator, and other officials.

CL1/0704 - TO ELECT CATHAOIRLEACH. As the outgoing Cathaoirleach of the committee was not re-elected to the council, Mr. Talbot took the chair. He congratulated all members on their election and extended a special welcome to new members of the committee. He then invited nominations for the post of Cathaoirleach. Councillor Fitzpatrick was nominated by Councillor Doyle and seconded by Councillor Weld. Councillor Weld asked that it be recorded that his seconding of the proposal was on the basis that there was an agreement amongst the councillors that the chair would be rotated. As there were no other nominations, Councillor Fitzpatrick was deemed elected and took the chair.

CL2/0704 - TO RECOMMEND APPOINTMENTS TO COMMITTEES. (a) Local Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee It was resolved on the proposal of Councillor McEvoy, seconded by Councillor Weld, that Councillor Fitzpatrick be the committee’s nominee. (b) County Museum Committee It was resolved on the proposal of Councillor Doyle, seconded by Councillor Weld, that Councillor McEvoy be the committee’s nominee. (c) Finance Committee It was resolved on the proposal of Councillor Fitzpatrick, seconded by Councillor Weld, that Councillor Liam Doyle be the committee’s nominee. (d) County Kildare Fáilte It was resolved on the proposal of Councillor McEvoy, seconded by Councillor Doyle, that Councillor Weld be the committee’s nominee.

CL3/0704 – MINUTES AND PROGRESS REPORT. The minutes of the committee meeting held on the 9th March 2004 were adopted on the proposal of Councillor McEvoy, seconded by Councillor Fitzpatrick. The members also noted the progress report of the same meeting.

CL4/0704 TAKING IN CHARGE OF HOUSING ESTATES. The members had before them a report from Planning Section dated 27th February 2004. As neither Councillors Doyle or Weld had seen the report previously it was decided to defer consideration of this item. In the interim the all members are to be furnished with a copy of the report.

______1 Minutes of the Clane Area Committee Meeting Held on Wednesday 14th July 2004 at 2.30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, St. Mary’s, Naas. CL5/0704 – MOTION - COUNCILLOR MCGINLEY. “In view of the early closing date for the Urban Renewal Tax Incentive Scheme and the lack of development at The Square, Kilcock, that Kildare County Council use its good offices to bring together property owners and other players in the area with a view to getting developments underway at an early date and to maximise the Urban Renewal Scheme while it is still in existence.” The members had before them a report from Planning Directorate stating that they had promoted the scheme and engaged in meeting with developers but that it needs interest from developers to bring forward the proposals. Councillor Doyle raised the issue of the former Connolly supermarket premises, and asked if any action under the derelict sites acts be taken due to the dangerous condition of the building. Mr. Talbot undertook to bring the matter to the attention of the relevant officials. It was resolved on the proposal by Councillor Doyle, seconded by Councillor Weld, that a feasibility study be undertaken to see if it would be possible to locate the administration for the courts service for North Kildare on the former monastery site in Kilcock. The members also noted a report from Jonathan Deane, Area Engineer, that he intends to carry out some resurfacing, relining, kerbing and lighting work at this location.

CL6/0704 – MOTION - COUNCILLOR FITZPATRICK. “ That this Council consider higher density of housing in Coill Dubh Village area in return for additional recreational land for sports groups in the village.” The members had before them a report from Planning Directorate saying that this issue could be looked at in the context of the review of the County Development Plan currently before the members. Councillor Fitzpatrick said that there was a shortage of land for such purposes in the village and that he felt that a developer might be open to the idea set out in the motion. The members noted the report.

CL7/0704 – ROADS ISSUES, STAPLESTOWN. (REFERENCE LETTER RECEIVED FROM JOHN & RUTH BEIRNE). The members had before them a report from the Director of Transportation setting out his comments on the various issues raised. Councillor Weld said that he knows the area well and that the points raised in Mr. and Mrs. Beirne’s letter were well founded. He asked who owned the piece of land fenced off at the cemetery. The area engineer said that while the developer was to pass it on to the council as part of the planning permission he was not certain if the actual transfer had yet taken place. It was decided to ask Transportation Section to clarify the position for the next meeting. Councillor Doyle also enquired if the council could employ speed enforcement wardens, similar to traffic wardens, to enforce speed limits at points like schools. It was agreed that the transportation section would be asked to enquire into this possibility.

CL8/0704 – SITUATION CONCERNING EXCESSIVE TRAFFIC SPEED AT CADAMSTOWN NATIONAL SCHOOL (COUNCILLOR SHERIDAN). The members had before them a report from Transportation Section informing them that “caution children” line markings had been put down and that the area engineer had agreed with the school principal to construct a footpath between the school and the playing fields. The members noted the report and asked that a copy be forwarded to P.J. Sheridan.

______2 Minutes of the Clane Area Committee Meeting Held on Wednesday 14th July 2004 at 2.30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, St. Mary’s, Naas. CL9/0704 - ADJOURNED QUESTION –COUNCILLOR McEVOY. “What is the latest report on the re-siting of the bus stops on the Dublin Road out of Clane?” The members had before them a report from the Director of Transportation setting out what had been done here. Councillor McEvoy complimented the council, and especially the area engineer, on the work carried out and said that the situation is now satisfactory.

CL10/004 - ADJOURNED QUESTION – COUNCILLOR SHERIDAN. “What is the position with regard to Cloncurry Cross, Kilcock. When is work to start on this dangerous junction?” The members had before them a report from the Director of Transportation stating that, as traffic volumes will decrease when the M4 motorway is opened, large-scale works are not planned at this location. The area engineer would examine whether some improvements in signage and linings would improve the situation here and report back. The members noted the report.

CL11/0704 - QUESTION – COUNCILLOR McGINLEY. “Will the Council put in place a yellow box at the junction of Courtown Road and Royal Meadows, Kilcock, to allow traffic to exit from Royal Meadows and Highfield Estate when the new traffic lights are put in place at that location?” The members had before them a report from Director of Transportation stating that on a preliminary assessment the provision of a yellow box here does not seem to be warranted. The situation will, however, be looked at again when the traffic lights are commissioned. The members noted the report and asked that a copy be forwarded to Councillor McGinley.

CL12/0704 – QUESTION - COUNCILLOR FITZPATRICK. “What is the current position on funding for traffic calming in Johnstownbridge and Allenwood and has investigations shown that traffic lights will be installed at the Church in Prosperous in the current year?” The members had before them a report from the Director of Transportation. (a) In the case of Johnstownbridge the matter is tied in with the improvement of the R412, Enfield/Edenderry Road. Councillor Fitzpatrick said that it was obvious that the work needed to be done so why not carry it out now rather than wait as it may be some time before the R412 scheme is ready to go ahead? (b) The Allenwood scheme is dependent on progress with the sewerage scheme and the road openings, which will be necessary. (c) Design options are still being investigated in relation to Prosperous. The members noted the report and asked that progress be brought before them as soon as possible

CL13/0704 – ADJOURNED MOTION – COUNCILLOR McEVOY. “In view of the vandalism to the graveyard wall and gravestones at Killybegs, and to problems in the vicinity of other burial grounds might it be considered necessary to install stopcocks to control water taps at such locations and lockable bollards to control parking areas.” The members had before them a report the Director of Transportation setting out the measures taken. Councillor McEvoy expressed satisfaction with the improved situation, but asked that waterworks report on progress with the installation of lockable stopcocks.

______3 Minutes of the Clane Area Committee Meeting Held on Wednesday 14th July 2004 at 2.30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, St. Mary’s, Naas. CL14/0704 – ADJOURNED MOTION – COUNCILLOR McGINLEY. “Further to the attached correspondence, that immediate measures be put in place to prevent cars from crashing through the boundary of Mr. Murray’s garden, by the provision of a suitable barrier and further that the steps be now taken to realign the sight lines on the cross roads with a view to improving safety.” The members had before them a report from the Director of Transportation stating that he would not recommend the provision of barriers here. However, works to stagger this junction had recently carried out. The engineer said that this appears to have solved the problem, but that it would be kept under review. The members noted the report and asked that a copy be supplied to Councillor McGinley.

CL15/0704 – CURRENT MOTION – COUNCILLOR McGINLEY. “ That pedestrian controlled traffic lights be provided in the vicinity of St. Coca’s Church, Kilcock.” The members had before them a report from Director of Transportation, informing them that the request had been added to a list of traffic and pedestrian counts to be carried out in order to ascertain if it would be warranted at this and other locations sought. The members noted the report and asked that a copy be forwarded to Councillor McGinley.

CL16/0704 – MOTION – COUNCILLOR McGINLEY. “That the following improvements be carried out in Rathcoffey to enable children to get to school safely: - a) That a footpath be provided from Rathcoffey GAA Hall to opposite Farrington’s pub, b) That a footpath be provided from Farrington’s pub to the National School, and c) That a School Warden system be provided to enable children to cross the road safely.” The members had before them a report from Director of Transportation on the issues raised. Items a) and b) – while the proposed footpath would be desirable there are no funds in the 2004 budget to carry out the work. It will be looked at again in the context of 2005 programme of works. Item c) – there is no funding for additional school wardens. Even if money were available, other works would be necessary before they could be deployed. Councillor Weld said that while the council had built houses here, no footpaths had been provided along the main road. He asked that, at least, a sign warning of the school be erected without delay. The members noted the report and asked that a copy be supplied to Councillor McGinley.

CL17/0704 – MOTION – COUNCILLOR BYRNE. “Due to illegal speeding on the Clane Inner Relief Road it is resolved that anti-speed ramps be placed on the road and that ‘reminder’ speed limit signs be also placed on this route.” The members had before them a report from Director of Transportation informing them that a traffic count had been arranged for September when schools reopen, after which proposals for traffic calming will be formulated. In the interim reminder speed limit signs will be erected shortly. The members noted the report and asked that a copy be forwarded to Councillor Byrne.

CL18/0704 – MOTION – COUNCILLOR BYRNE. “That bollards be placed along the edge of the green area of Hillview Estate, Clane, which faces onto the Ballinagappagh Road, to prevent cars and vans using Hillview Estate as a shortcut to go from the Kilcock Road to the Ballinagappagh Road, by traversing the green area and causing danger to children playing on the green and pedestrians using the footpath at this location.”

______4 Minutes of the Clane Area Committee Meeting Held on Wednesday 14th July 2004 at 2.30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, St. Mary’s, Naas. The Director of Services reported that the situation had been examined and no evidence of use of green area as a shortcut had been found. The location will be kept under observation and action taken if any evidence emerges. The members noted the report and asked that a copy be forwarded to Councillor Byrne.

CL19/0704 – MOTION – COUNCILLOR McEVOY. “ That a pedestrian crossing be provided with a full back-up of warning lights, etc., to assist residents, particularly children, crossing the new Clane Inner Relief Road at its junction with the Abbey Park entrance.” The members had before them a report from Director of Transportation informing them that a traffic count had been arranged for September when schools resume. Roads design section will then bring forward proposals. Councillor Fitzpatrick asked why it was necessary to carry out any traffic calming measures here as the road had only been open a short time and these problems should have been foreseen and overcome in the initial design stage. The members noted the report and Councillor McEvoy asked that the work necessary here be prioritised.

CL20/0704 – MOTION – COUNCILLOR McEVOY. “ That Kildare County Council provide traffic calming measures on the ‘Edenderry’ entrance to Prosperous between speed limit signs and the junction with Main Street.” The members had before them a report from the Director of Transportation informing them that the Council’s consultants are examining proposals for traffic calming measures at the Church crossroads. Cllr McEvoy’s proposal will be looked at as part of the overall scheme. In reply to a query the area engineer confirmed that DTO does not generally favour the use of speed ramps on regional roads. The members noted the report.

CL21/0704 – MOTION – COUNCILLOR FITZPATRICK “That Council look at changes to the proposed route of Edenderry/Enfield road in order to satisfy local farming interests, thus allowing much needed work to commence while funding is available.” The members had before them a report from Director of Transport. The proposed reduction of speed limits on such roads from 60 miles per hour to 80 kilometres an hour (approximately 50 mph) would have design implications and it might not be necessary to have as many off road re- alignments. He would keep the committee informed in this regard. Councillor Fitzpatrick said that he did not like to see “council officials, keep out” signs on farm gates as was happening in the area. He would ask that the Council do all in its power to satisfy the genuine concerns of the farmers. Mr. Talbot assured him that the council is committed to consulting widely and that it always tries to accommodate peoples concerns. The members noted the report.

CL22/0704 – TAKING IN CHARGE OF TURNINGS/KILLEEMORE GROUP WATER SCHEME The members had before them a report from Mr. Tadgh McDonnell, Senior Executive Officer, Water Services, advising that the trustees of the scheme had requested that it be taken-in-charge by Kildare County Council. He also advised that the relevant technical staff had examined the scheme and found it to be up to standard.

______5 Minutes of the Clane Area Committee Meeting Held on Wednesday 14th July 2004 at 2.30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, St. Mary’s, Naas. It was resolved on the proposal of Councillor Doyle, seconded by Councillor Weld, that the committee recommend to the Council that the scheme be taken-in-charge.

CL23/0704 – TAKING IN CHARGE OF TIMAHOE/DONADEA GROUP WATER SCHEME The members had before them a report from Tadgh McDonnell, Senior Executive Officer, Water Services, advising that the trustees of the scheme had requested that it be taken-in-charge by Kildare County Council. He also advised that the relevant technical staff had examined the scheme and found it to be up to standard. It was resolved on the proposal of Councillor Doyle, seconded by Councillor Weld, that the committee recommend to the Council that the scheme be taken-in-charge.

CL24/0704 –QUESTION – COUNCILLOR FITZPATRICK. “ Will the Council provide an up-date report on progress of the Allenwood Sewerage Scheme. When is it expected they will be in a position to lodge application for funding for phases 2 and 3 of this scheme already approved by the Department?” The members had before them a report from Tadgh McDonnell, Senior Executive Officer, Water Services, informing them that construction bonds and insurances are being examined. Assuming that they are found to be in order it is hoped to commence construction in September. While the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government has approved phase one it has asked that other phases be deferred for the present. Councillor Fitzpatrick asked that the Department be contacted to seek the approval to proceed with the whole scheme without further delay. The members noted the report

CL25/0704 –QUESTION – COUNCILLOR FITZPATRICK. “ Would Council undertake a survey of North West Kildare to identify locations and buildings suitable for job creating projects and then follow up with a programme to encourage employers to develop job creating projects at these locations?” The members had before them a report from Director of Community and Enterprise. This issue had been identified by the County Development Board and falls within the remit of the SPC on economic planning and development. A strategy on how best to tackle the problem, which affects other parts of the county as well, is being drawn up. The members asked to be kept informed of developments.

CL26/0704 –MOTION – COUNCILLOR FITZPATRICK. “ That Kildare County Council make a policy decision in relation to the proposed disposal of property and land at Robertstown by MERTO in order to end the uncertainty for the local community.” The members had before them a report from the Director of Community and Enterprise. The matter is complicated by the fact that while MERTO own the land adjoining the hotel, Waterways Ireland also has an interest in the building and they are in discussion. The Council has indicated its interest in acquiring the lands in question and he expects a reply when Merto and Waterways Ireland have concluded discussions. He has also discussed the situation with Mr. John Lahart, Director of Housing who would also be interested in acquiring land here. Councillor Fitzpatrick said the local people feared that an asset into which they have invested both time and money would be lost to them if it falls into private hands.

______6 Minutes of the Clane Area Committee Meeting Held on Wednesday 14th July 2004 at 2.30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, St. Mary’s, Naas. CL27/0704 –QUESTION – COUNCILLOR O’REILLY “What progress, if any, has been made in relation to securing amenity lands at Derrinturn/Carbury?” Councillor Fitzpatrick advised the meeting that a planning application, which could have a bearing on this issue, had been submitted recently, and so it was agreed to defer discussions on this item.

CL28/0704 – SUPPLEMENTARY AGENDA ITEM – MOTION COUNCILLOR McEVOY. “That this committee would support the introduction of bye-laws to ban the open air drinking of alcohol on the public open spaces in Clane village.” It was resolved on the proposal of Councillor McEvoy, seconded by Councillor Weld, that these bye-laws would be desirable and they asked that a draft of the proposals be presented to them at the next meeting for consideration.

CL29/0704 – ANY OTHER BUSINESS Councillor Weld said Allenwood Community Group, who requested that the Committee receive them at its next meeting, had approached him. The members agreed to this request. Cllr Weld informed the meeting’s administrator that Ms Peg Regan, Allenwood Middle, was the contact person here and Mr Talbot undertook to contact her.

This concluded the business of the meeting.

______7 Minutes of the Clane Area Committee Meeting Held on Wednesday 14th July 2004 at 2.30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, St. Mary’s, Naas.