Minutes of Shannon Municipal District Meeting May 2023

Present

Councillors: 

Councillors Michael Begley (Cathaoirleach), Donna McGettigan (Leas-Cathaoirleach), PJ Ryan, Pat McMahon, Gerard Flynn, John Crowe and Pat O’Gorman.

 

Officials:

Siobhan McNulty A/Director of Service, Anne Griffin A/ Senior Executive Officer (Meetings Administrator), Carmel Greene Senior Executive Officer, Tom Mellett Senior Executive Engineer, Caimin Dillon Executive Engineer and Patricia O’Neill Staff Officer.

 

Presiding

Cathaoirleach Michael Begley opened the meeting and welcomed all present.

Item 1: Minutes of Special Meeting of the Shannon Municipal District Meeting held on 28th March 2023.

Minutes of Special Meeting of the Shannon Municipal District held on 28th March 2023 were proposed by Cllr. Pat McMahon and seconded by Cllr. John Crowe and agreed by all.

Item 2: Minutes of the Shannon Municipal District deferred Meeting held on 31st March 2023.

Minutes of the Shannon Municipal District deferred Meeting held on 31^st March 2023 were proposed by Cllr. Pat McMahon and seconded by Cllr. Gerard Flynn and agreed by all.

Item 3:  Request for approval to proceed to public consultation of the draft Clare County Council (prohibition of overnight camping in Illaunmanagh Car Park) Bye-Laws 2023.

Proposed by Cllr. PJ Ryan and seconded by Cllr. Gerard Flynn and agreed by all.

Item 4: Representatives from Bus Eireann (In response to Notice of Motion from Cllr. Donna McGettigan at the March Meeting of the Shannon MD re route 343 (Limerick-Shannon-Ennis).

Robert O’Mahony, Head of Public Service Obligation Network and Denis Maher, Service Delivery Manager from Bus Eireann addressed the Members.

At the outset Mr. O’Mahony outlined that the demand for the service has increased significantly compared to pre-pandemic levels, which has brought about a review in the service provided, which presents both opportunities and challenges for Bus Eireann. 

• Bus Eireann work in partnership with the National Transport Authority (NTA) who have responsibility for bus stops, shelters, setting fares, timetables, routes and purchase of vehicles. 
• The NTA have launched the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which aims to increase transport connectivity for people living in rural Ireland.  This has allowed for the review of the current service, introducing enhanced routes which are frequent and affordable bus routes offering sustainable new connections which are interchangeable with regional bus and rail services.
• Up to 50% reduction in fares for under 24.  
• Demand on route 343 (Limerick-Shannon-Ennis) is up 60%
• Additional higher capacity buses will be deployed to route 343.   Double-decker buses have capacity for 80 people. 
• It is acknowledged that the hourly service is insufficient on the route 343 corridor for the level of demand. 

In response to the presentation the Member raised the following:

• Bus Service from Shannon Airport not well advertised and not visible when exiting Shannon Airport building.
• 2 bus stops at Ballymorris, Cratloe were removed for repair to be re-instated.
• Bus stops at Drumgeely to be re-examined.
• Purchase of bus tickets to be made more accessible.
• Service in Newmarket On Fergus was commended.  Enhance marketing of Bunratty routes linked to Shannon Heritage.
• Lack of bus service to Meelick
• Service for Westbury/Shannon Banks - what plans are in place to enhance this service. 
• Enhanced service required for Sixmilebridge given the population growth in this area.  A route which encompasses Bunratty – Sixmilebridge – Cratloe to be give further consideration. 
• Route from Limerick to Ardnacrusha Power Station to be reviewed. 
• Bus pole at Hurlers Cross to be re-instated.

Mr. O’Mahony stated that in relation to the points raised by the Members regarding specific routes, Bus Eireann would liaise and consult with the NTA and provide feeback to the Members.

In relation to the 2 bus stops in Ballymorris, Mr. O’Mahony highlighted safety concerns in regard to the re-instatement of the bus stops at this location, as they are on the dual carriageway.  The possibility of widening the grass margins at both sides for the bus stop and the safety of people crossing the road was discussed.  It was agreed that this requires further consideration. 

Bus Eireann will talk to Shannon Airport in relation to increasing the visibility of the bus service at the Airport.

Mr. Denis Maher stated that the location of the bus stop in Bunratty has been problematic for the drivers of the double-decker buses due to the trees in the vicinity of the bus stop.  It was agreed that this would be discussed further with the Shannon MD office. 

It was agreed at this point to take item no. 18 – Notice of Moiton from Cllr. Gerard Flynn

Item 18: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Gerard Flynn

Ar molagh Cllr. Gerard Flynn

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

I am calling on Clare County Council to contact Bus Eireann or whatever procedure needs to be followed to have a Bus Stop Sign 🛑 installed on Drumgeely Road to identify the official bus stop opposite the recently installed bus shelter.

In response, Mr. Robert O’Mahony replied that this will be referred back to his team and he would anticipate that this sign will be in place as soon as possible. 

The Cathaoirleach and Members thanked the representatives from Bus Eireann for their very informative presentation. 

 

Item 5: Proposed disposal of lands at Drom Cuilinn, Bothar na Luchra, Tullyvarraga, Shannon, Co. Clare. 

Proposed by Cllr. Geard Flynn and seconded by Cllr.  PJ Ryan and agreed by all.

Item 6: Proposed disposal of property (by lease) of Hastings’ Farmhouse and surrounding lands. 

Proposed by Cllr. PJ Ryan and seconded by Cllr. Gerard Flynn and agreed by all.

 

Item 7: Proposed footpath extension at Dromoland, Newmarket On Fergus under Section 38 of the Roads Act 1993. 

Proposed by Cllr.  Pat McMahon  and seconded by Cllr. PJ Ryan and agreed by all.

Cllr. Flynn requested that the headed item “Economic Development” which was previously included as an agenda item for Shannon MD Meetings be included in future meetings, given the concentration of industrial and commercial development within the District.  Cathaoirleach Michael Begley supported this request.  It was agreed that this would be included as a headed item on future agendas for Shannon MD Statutory meetings.  

Item 8:  Roads -  update by Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer.

• Surface Dressing programme has commenced and is expect to be completed by the end of this week.
• The grass cutting contract is continuing. 
• We have continued to engage a contractor to limb and remove trees causing concern.
• Native trees have been planted in Mount Ievers, Sixmilebridge.
• Our own crews have commenced works in Newmarket-on-Fergus focusing on the Lough Gash green area of Kilnasoolagh Park. This has been funded through a 2021 ORIS grant. We have also engaged a contractor to complete selected elements of work under this grant.
• Town and Village Renewal Schemes are advancing in Drumgeely, tender documents are being prepared.  Tender for Clonlara TVR is currently advertised.
• Bunratty Town and Village Renewal scheme is at contractor appointment stage. The preferred tenderer has been notified and confirmation is awaited on a few issues.
• Ml Boland Ltd has continued works on the Ballycasey Active Travel project. This will see a widening to 3m of footpaths linking residential, commercial and social areas in that part of Shannon Town and the introduction of Pedestrian Crossing Points.  This project is in the final stages of completion.
• The footpath maintenance contract works have continued in Shannon, Parteen and Shannon Banks.
• Traffic Calming works are being installed in Ballycasey by the Shannon MD roads crew.
• In Bunratty a footpath towards Roadstone has been completed by our own crews.
• Our Road marking contractor commenced last week and has upgraded lining in Shannon, Sixmilebridge and Cratloe.

The Members raised the following

• The slip road off Bóthar Mor (before junction with Skycourt) has two sections that are sunken.
• That the Shannon MD engage with the Management of Roadstone Bunratty to advise them of the newly completed foothpath that may negate the need to drive into the village.
• Concern was raised in relation to the overnight parking of heavy goods vehicles in Bunratty.

 

Item 9: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Michael Begley

Ar molagh Cllr. Michael Begley

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

That repairs/surface dressing be carried out on the L-3068 (Brennan’s cross to Meelick Church), between the end of the overlay at Meelick Church to the end of the orange surface after the right angle bend east of Pass road junction.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

Repairs to this road will be added to our current works schedule.

As our current budgets for surface dressing have been allocated the road will be assessed for inclusion in the 2024 road works programme.

 

Item 10: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Michael Begley

Ar molagh Cllr. Michael Begley

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gerard Flynn agus glacadh leis:

That black and amber sharp bend warning signage be installed at the junction of the L-3050 and L-30501 – Doonass as there has been a number of accidents there in recent months.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

The Shannon Municipal District Office will survey this location in order to determine the optimum location for chevron signs and ensure there is capacity to accommodate them within the guidelines we are obligated to adhere to.

 

Item 11: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Michael Begley

Ar molagh Cllr. Michael Begley

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gerard Flynn agus glacadh leis:

That this MD would consider the provision of 4 car parking spaces on the small green area near the Shrine in Derryvinna estate, Clonlara.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

The Shrine is adjacent to an amenity area within the Derryvinna estate, it lies within a large green containing a macadam play area, the introduction of 4 parking spaces would not diminish the space nor negatively impact on neighbouring properties.

This Office will need to design for the spaces and then identify an appropriate funding stream.

 

Item 12: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Pat McMahon

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat McMahon

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

That Clare County Council install safety bollards in the vicinity of the businesses on the Limerick Road, Newmarket On Fergus as to allow the free movement of people, especially those with mobility impairment.

 

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

This Office will arrange to introduce bollards at this location and ensure safe passage for all pedestrians.

 

Item 13: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Pat McMahon

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat McMahon

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

That Clare County Council would install wire fencing surrounding Lough Gash Lake, in front of Kilnasoolagh Park, as this area is frequented by a significant number of children.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

As Part of the 2021 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme currently under way in Newmarket on Fergus, Shannon Municipal District Office is carrying out improvement works adjacent to Lough Gash in Kilnasoolagh Park. We will ensure that access to the lake remains secure while protecting the local environment around the lake.

 

Item 14: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Pat McMahon

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat McMahon

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

That this Council would repair and upgrade the footpaths on the Ennis Road, Newmarket On Fergus especially at the junction with Lough Gash road.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

This office will arrange for repairs to be carried out at this location.

 

Item 15: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. PJ Ryan

Ar molagh Cllr. PJ Ryan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

That Shannon MD would carry out major repairs to the Woodcock Hill, Cratloe-Meelick Road, as it has become very badly damaged by heavy goods vehicle in recent times  

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

A number of forestry licences have been granted along this road in the preceding years. This Office has made it a requirement that pre and post works condition surveys of the road be carried out by the licensee.  This will enable us to evaluate the level of damage caused by this activity.

Maintenance will be carried out by the Municipal District Office in the coming weeks to ensure the road is accessible.

 

Item 16: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. PJ Ryan

Ar molagh Cllr. PJ Ryan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. John Crowe agus glacadh leis:

That Shannon MD would carry out modifications to the pedestrian crossing at Pound Street Sixmilebridge, i.e. raise the crossing as a traffic calming measure, convert to pedestrian operated lights and illuminate the area with new LED lights 

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

This Office in conjunction with our colleagues in the Road Design Office will investigate the status of the crossing to determine if it is due modernisation and/or upgrade.

A new raised Pedestrian crossing will be installed at the Rosmanagher Rd junction in the second half of the year which will have a traffic calming effect on any traffic approaching the Pound Street crossing from the Shannon side.

 

Item 17: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. PJ Ryan

Ar molagh Cllr. PJ Ryan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

That Shannon MD would carry out surface repairs and install a safety barrier to the pedestrian access at the bus stop in Ballymorris, Cratloe 

The possibility of making more space available on the grass margin for buses to pull in was discussed earlier in the meeting with the representatives from Bus Eireann.

It was agreed that Tom Mellett would advise Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) of this request. 

 

Item 18: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Gerard Flynn

Ar molagh Cllr. Gerard Flynn

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

I am calling on Clare County Council to contact Bus Eireann or whatever procedure needs to be followed to Have a Bus Stop Sign 🛑 Installed on Drumgeely Road to identify the Official Bus Stop opposite the recently installed bus shelter.

Previously discussed with Representatives from Bus Eireann

Item 19: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Gerard Flynn

Ar molagh Cllr. Gerard Flynn

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis

I am calling on Clare County Council to address the ongoing flooding issues on Gort Road in Shannon, the minor efforts been carried out by the Council to address this problem is having very little effect and I would hope that the infrastructure could be properly investigated and a solution found.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

Shannon Municipal District Office has installed a new gully and connection, from the Gort Rd to the public storm water network in the last month, adjacent to houses 5 and 7 where water had been ponding.

We carry out responsive and scheduled works throughout the M.D to alleviate flooding. This includes systematic cleaning of the drainage network to ensure it operates at capacity.

As relevant funding streams become available, we apply for them in order to expand our drainage works programme and bridge gaps in the existing infrastructure.

 

Item 20: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Gerard Flynn

Ar molagh Cllr. Gerard Flynn

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis

I am calling on The Chief Executive Officer of Clare County Council to immediately appoint a designated person to work with elected members in an open and transparent process concerning the administration and expenditure of the General Municipal Allocations. 

Siobhan McNulty, A/Director of Services, Physical Development Directorate replied as follows:

The legal basis for the General Municipal District Allocation (GMA) is prescribed in the Local Government Reform Act 2014.  The budget allocation at Municipal District level is agreed annually with members as part of the budget process. Since the GMA was initially assigned in 2023, a further amount of €10,000 has recently been made available to each Councillor for distribution to a variety of services and/or projects which is very positive.  The Agresso financial system captures all expenditure (both incurred and committed) under the General Municipal District Allocation.

There is an enhanced and strengthened management staffing structure in Shannon Municipal District with a Senior Executive Officer as well as the Senior Executive Engineer in place to assist and support Members and to ensure that work programs are identified and delivered.   The Senior Executive Officer continues to meet and work in partnership on various matters (including GMA) with the MD Members.  The ultimate aim of this collaborative approach is improving the quality of life for the citizens of the Municipal District of Shannon.

Cllr Flynn added that additional resources are required to operate the GMA.  This funding stream has added many small improvements to the community. 

Cllr. Flynn stated that the additional €10k as referenced in the response was a re-instatement of the original GMA amount.  The GMA is an important fund and value for money was a requirement. 

 

Item 21: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gerard Flynn agus glacadh leis:

Can an investigation be done on the Bóthar na Rinne road as it is rising in places.  In some places the footpath, alongside the road, is also rising and the road is splitting in one part of one section of this road.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

A trial hole excavation has been arranged for this location. It will enable us to determine the extent of movement below the road surface and possibly indicate a cause. Once this is complete the Office will be in a position to determine how best to advance.

 

Item 22: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gerard Flynn agus glacadh leis:

Can a footpath be put in place to connect up with the footpath that lines up with St John and Paul's church and St Aidans school from the adjoining estate.  This route is already being used as a safe passage for children going to school but is not yet an established footpath.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

This office will begin design on creating a formal footpath connection for this estate to the recently upgraded pedestrian facilities servicing the area.

 

Item 23:  Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gerard Flynn agus glacadh leis:

I am requesting that funding be found for the roads at the rear of houses in Drumgeely area.  The roads are dipping and heavy vehicles are causing damage, there is constant flooding and jetting the drains is only a temporary solution.  A permanent solution is looked for by the residents in that area.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

This is an issue which has been ongoing for number of years, these pavements were not originally designed as roads but over the years locals, visitors and service providers have used them as such, because of the background they are not classed as public roads and so do not have access to the traditional funding streams we rely on for maintenance purposes.

This office is committed to resolving the issue (having recently introduced 16 parking spaces in the vicinity of Cill Chais and Lee Park for the benefit of the general public) and will identify more recent funding streams which may allow for the upgrades these laneways require.

I expect the funding streams to be advertised in the coming weeks.

 

Item 24: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. John Crowe

Ar molagh Cllr. John Crowe

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

That measures be taken to alleviate the severe flooding in Mount Ievers housing estate, Sixmilebridge, particularly in front of house no.’s 10, 13 & 14 which has water flowing into their driveway during heavy downpours.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

The Office has investigated the issue at this location and can confirm that a works crew will carry out an improved drainage project to alleviate the situation these householders face.

 

Item 25: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. John Crowe

Ar molagh Cllr. John Crowe

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Donna McGettigan agus glacadh leis:

That Clare County Council carry out urgent works to address the flooding on the right-hand side of the carpark in Illaunmanagh burial ground.

Siobhan O’Reilly, Administrative Officer, Rural & Community Development replied as follows:

An assessment with regard to flooding on the right-hand side of the car park in Illaunmanagh Burial Ground will be carried out.

In the event that flooding is observed, the Burial Grounds Unit of the Council will request the assistance of technical staff in the Design Office or Municipal District to investigate the extent and source of the flooding and identify a possible solution and the cost of remediating same.  I wish to confirm that the Burial Grounds Unit will monitor this matter going forward.

 

Item 26: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. John Crowe

Ar molagh Cllr. John Crowe

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Pat O’Gorman agus glacadh leis:

I am requesting that Clare County Council install a footpath on the Low Road Bunratty for the safety of all road users.  This is a very busy road used by residents and tourists.

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

It is the intention of this Office to achieve this aim through the ongoing Shannon-Bunratty-Sixmilebridge greenway project. The Bunratty end of this road is being investigated as a possible hub along the route, enhanced access to this hub would be an objective of the project team.

 

This Motion was supported by all the Members.

 

Item 27: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

That this MD would liaise with the TII with a view of putting traffic calming measures in place after junction 5 - Cratloe/Sixmilebridge slip road which merges onto the Limerick bound dual carriageway N18.  Traffic calming measures need to be put in places as traffic is coming down too fast from this slip road onto the dual carriageway. 

The Members expressed safety concerns at this location.  It was agreed that this would be followed up with the TII. 

Item 28: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Michael Begley agus glacadh leis:

I request that this MD would take whatever steps are necessary to put a temporary speed limit in place for the people living and walking on the Phayers road Meelick (L3112) Co Clare.  It is my opinion that this road cannot wait for the upcoming speed limit review. 

Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, Shannon MD replied as follows:

We will review the issue and discuss options with the Road design section.

 

Item 29: Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

I would ask that Clare County Council would take in charge a Cul de sac road at Brick Hillcrest Cratloe Co Clare. 

Kieran O’Donnell Administrative Officer, Planning replied as follows:

This development is part of a larger development of eleven houses that was granted planning permission in 1980 and the overall development is accessed through two separate entrances. The houses have their own septic tanks and are serviced by a public water supply. There were efforts made with the developer in the mid 1990’s to bring this development to taking in charge standard but the process was never completed.

There are additional works required to bring this development to taking in charge standard and there are no bond monies available. This is just one of a number of older estates in the county in a similar position where a source of funding is required in order to complete outstanding works.  The Planning Department will engage further with the Shannon MD office to assess the outstanding works and to consider funding options.

 

Item 30: AOB

• Agree date for Shannon Municipal District AGM

It was agreed that the date for the AGM would be Thursday 29^th June 2023 at 2pm.

• Shannon MD Small Community Grant Scheme 2023 – A list of 30 voluntary organisations within the Shannon MD, that had secured funding totaling €18k under this scheme was circulated at the meeting.

The allocation of funding to the listed groups was proposed by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman and seconded by Cllr. PJ Ryan.

• Michael Begley requested an update on timelines for Elton Court Wastewater upgrade.   Tom Mellett advised that he would request an update from Irish Water. 
• Ms. Anne Griffin A/Senior Executive Officer advised the meeting that the Local Economic and Community Plan 2023-2029 public consultation process has commenced.   Public consultations will take place in the Shannon MD Offfice on Monday 12^th June.  All the MD’s have been requested to make a submission in respect of this plan. 
• Rural & Community Development Officer – the Members were informed that a new Rural & Community Development Officer has been appointed and that commencement is imminent.  

 

Signed:                                                                                

                Cathaoirleach

Signed:                                                                                

                Meetings Administrator

 

Date                                                                                                     

Page last reviewed: 18/07/23

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