Minutes of the Shannon Municipal District Meeting January 2024

Present:

Councillors attending in person: 

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

Officials attending in person:

Alan Farrell Director of Service, Anne Griffin A/ Senior Executive Officer (Meetings Administrator), Tom Mellett Senior Executive Engineer, Patricia O’Neill Staff Officer and Ava Dillon, Student. 

Cathaoirleach Donna McGettigan opened the meeting, welcomed all present and extended a special welcome to Alan Farrell, on his appointment as Director of Service to Clare County Council.  Cllr. McGettigan stated that she looked forward to working with Mr. Farrell in the Shannon MD and also acknowledged the work and contribution of Ms. Siobhan McNulty during her tenure as A/Director of Service of the Shannon MD.  

Item no. 1 -  Minutes of the Shannon Municipal District Meeting held on 21^st November, 2023.

Minutes of the Shannon Municipal District Meeting held on 21^st November, 2023 were proposed by Cllr. PJ Ryan and seconded by Cllr. Gerard Flynn and agreed by all.

Matters arising:

Following on from the November Meeting Cllr. Gerard Flynn raised the following:

• An update on the Strategic Development Zone.
• Concern was also expressed about proposed seating as part of the Drumgeely TVR Scheme.  A meeting will take place with the Senior Executive Engineer and Chief Technician in regard to this matter.
• Clarification was also sought in relation to works carried out by Clare County Council on gullies within the Shannon Industrial Estate.  Tom Mellett responded that these works were carried out by Clare County Council.   Clare County Council have responsibility for the underground network.
• That the new mini sweeper and the regular sweeper be deployed to Finian Park.

Item no. 2 -  Section 38, Road Traffic Act 1994 – proposed traffic calming measures at Cluain Airne and Tradaree, Shannon, Co. Clare.

Cllr. Gerard Flynn thanked Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer for the additional work on this proposal and requested clarification in regard to the number of off-road parking spaces.  Tom Mellett responded that 8 additional parking spaces will be provided.

It was proposed by Cllr. Gerard Flynn and seconded by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman and agreed by all.

Item no. 3 - Economic Development – update by Alan Farrell, Director of Service.

Mr. Alan Farrell addressed the Members and thanked all for their warm welcome.

• Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) – The Application is under consideration by the Department.   Clare County Council is committed to this project and will continue to engage with the Department and work in partnership with the University of Limerick.
• 10. No. Affordable Housing Units for Shannon  - 10 affordable housing units have been approved for Shannon.  Expressions of Interest were sought in 2023 from Developers seeking proposals for the delivery.  Houses will be located in Oakwood View, Shannon.
• Clarecare has confirmed the development of a new site for Clarecare services in Shannon adjacent to the Garda Station.  This facility will provide increased and enhanced services for the people of Shannon and the surrounding areas. 
• Clare Local Area Grants Scheme – applications are currently open for 2024 with a closing date of Friday 2^ndFebruary.  The purpose of this scheme is to encourage and assist community and voluntary organisations to take an active role in the development of their communities and improve the quality of life experience in their areas.  Members were encouraged to assist in the promotion of this scheme within the community. 
• Shannon Flood Relief Scheme – Phase 3 stage (Design and Environmental Evaluation) is currently ongoing.  A draft design has been prepared for the Preferred Option which includes a combination of active travel measures, improvements to public transport, along with new and improved road infrastructure.  Clare County Council continue to engage with the Shannon Airport Group, National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) and Shannon Golf Club as part of the development of the emerging Preferred Option. The Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) is underway and is expected to be completed by Q2 2024.   It is intended that a Development Consent Application and the EIAR will be lodged with An Bord Pleanála in 2024. Phase 5 (Enabling & Procurement) & 6 (Construction) will progress thereafter.  The construction stage is estimated to be in the region of 18 months in duration.    
• N19 Shannon Airport Access Road Upgrade - It is intended that this project will be submitted for Statutory Consent in Q2 2024.
• Springfield, Clonlara Flood Relief Scheme is functioning as intended and continues to be routinely monitored. The Shannon MD crews responded to increased flow by closing the embankment gates and operating the pumps during the first week in January.
• One Shannon Hub - A 2 day public consultation event took place in early December.  This project will deliver real change for the area and will enhance Shannon by providing a new social heart for the town.  A leaflet drop to nearby houses and businesses of the event was carried out by the MD.  There was a large attendance over the 2 days and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.  An application for funding under the Urban & Rural Development Fund (URDF) will be submitted in 2024. 

In response the Members raised the following:

• The members noted the importance of the SDZ application and requested that contact be made with the University of Limerick in this regard. It was also requested that the Shannon MD write to the Oireachtas Members on this issue.
• Economic Development update as a headed item on the agenda was welcomed due to the level of economic activity in the MD.    
• 10 no. Affordable housing units in Shannon – while this was welcomed, it was considered that this would give an indication of the demand under this scheme.  Concern was expressed of the affordability of these units for those on moderate incomes. 
• Springfield, Clonlara Flood Relief Scheme is working well and has been well tested in recent weeks.  A considerable amount of work has been done on this scheme and the possibility of using this scheme as a template for the Shannon Flood Relief Scheme was raised. 
• Walkway from Gillogue to the University of Limerick has not progressed.  Funding for this scheme was sanctioned under the Limerick Hinterland fund over 5 years ago.  Input was received from the National Parks & Wildlife on this route. It was requested that Waterways Ireland be contacted in this regard. 
• Quarterly meetings/workshops to be arranged with Rural & Community Development Officer for community/voluntary groups to attend be established within the MD in order to provide these groups with information and also on how to access resources.   
• An update on the Shannon/Bunratty/Sixmilebridge Greenwaywas sought.
• Update requested in relation to the Limerick Northern Distributor Road
• Seating area for the Drumgeely TVR was also raised.

Mr. Alan Farrell responded to points raised by the Members:

• An update across directorates will be provided at future meetings under the headed item – Directors Business.
• SDZ – points raised are important to the progress of this project.  The importance of expanding the University and growing the economy and the sustainable development of the area was highlighted.  Mr Farrell confirmed that he will raise the matter with Economic Development Directorate.
• Affordable Housing – Limits are set at National level. 
• Greenway Shannon/Bunratty/Sixmilebridge – an update will be provided under Director’s Business at the next meeting.
• In regard to the request for quarterly meetings/workshops for the Rural & Community Development Officer and community/voluntary groups to be organised, consultation will take place with Anne Haugh, Director for Rural & Community Development to see if this can be facilitated. 
• Tom Mellett will follow up on the design of the Drumgeely TVR with particular regard to seating.
• Limerick Northern Distributor Road – update to be provided.

Item no 4. -  Roads - update by Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer. 

-          Town & Village Renewal Schemes (TVR) – Clonlara and Drumgeely TVR schemes are now substantially complete. 

            Bunratty – works substantially complete, works on the bandstand relating to Community Recognition Fund will be completed in 2024.

-          The grass cutting contract for 2024 has been renewed and will commence in February.

-          Cleaning out of road gullies & drainage network has continued.

-          Pumps in Springfield, Clonlara operated successfully during the first week of January. 

-          Advanced works to prepare roads for Surface Dressing and Overlay have commenced.

-          Road markings completed to the overlay contract.

-          Mini-road sweeper is being deployed around Shannon and the surrounding towns.

-          Over the coming weeks winter maintenance works will be carried out. 

-          Upgrade works at the Westbury Pumpstation have been completed.

-          Completed the installation of a number of small sections of footpath in Westbury & Ballycasey

-          The installation of 2 new raised pedestrian crossing (Newmarket on Fergus & Sixmilebridge) and the complete refurbishment of 2 existing pedestrian crossings (Tullyvarraga).

-          Completed the footpath works at the Shannon town roundabout, Slí Na Slainte route, in December. Signage to highlight the route was completed in January.

-          Works to facilitate the Shannon Athletics Club will be completed this week which is funded through the Community Recognition Fund.

-          Tree maintenance and hedge maintenance work was on-going through November and December. 

-          The footpath maintenance contract has been advertised with a submission date of 14^th Feb. This will include 2100m of footpath. 

 

In response the Members raised the following:

-          Footpaths need to be edged.

-          Footpaths on Bothár Linne, Tullyvarraga Road and Bothár na Rinne require works.

-          Clarification was sought on the removal of areas of grass throughout Shannon.

-          The installation of 2 bus stop signs on the Drumgeely Road has not yet been carried out despite numerous requests to Bus Éireann.  Cllr. Gerard Flynn requested a copy of this written request to Bus Éireann from the Shannon MD Office.   Bus Éireann also to be

           requested to consider the inclusion of timetables at bus stops.    

-          An update was required on the following footpaths; Cratloe flyover to Cratloe GAA cross; extension of the footpath on the Broadford Road, Sixmilebridge; footpath in front of Sixmilebridge Church and the footpath from Meelick old public house and Ballycannon. 

-          Work on the Clonlara TVR was commended. 

-          A timeline on the completion of the works in Bunratty was requested. 

-          A timeline was also requested for the installation of a yellow box at the entrance to the Token houses in Shannon Banks. 

-          Update on the pedestrian crossing at the rear of the Old Lodge in Ballycasey. 

-          The condition of the timber on the Weir gates in Sixmilebridge is in need of urgent repair.  The OPW to be contacted in this regard. 

-          Works on additional footpaths in Sixmilebridge to be considered for inclusion in any future TVR scheme for Sixmilebridge. 

Tom Mellett replied to on the above as follows:

• Edging of footpaths may be carried out as required. 
• The recent removal of grass and topsoil was done following works on the Drumgeely TVR Scheme to facilitate Shannon Tidy Towns re-planting of roses removed from Drumgeely.  This was agreed prior to the project commencing. 
• Footpath from Cratloe flyover to Cratloe GAA cross – contractor has been lined up, confirmation of timeline will follow but it is anticipated that this will be commenced within the first 6 months of 2024. 
• Substantial discussions have also taken place with the landowner on the Broadford Road, Sixmilebridge and is ongoing. 
• Footpath outside Sixmilebridge Church – not included in the current phase of the footpath contract for the MD but will be considered for potential future contract later in 2024.
• Meelick footpath project has been put forward to the National Transport Authority through the Active Travel Project. 
• Works in Bunratty have been substantially completed.  Snag works to be completed. The bandstand is currently being fabricated in Cork.
• The installation of a yellow box at the entrance to the Token houses in Shannon Banks is on the schedule of works for the MD.
• Upgrade of pedestrian crossing in Ballycasey will be included as part of the Schedule of Municipal District works subject to adoption by the Members in March.
• The condition of the gates at the Weir in Sixmilebridge has been discussed with the Project Management Office and they will raise this with the OPW. 
• If there is a future funding call for footpaths, Sixmilebridge will be considered. 

Item no. 5 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. PJ Ryan

Ar molagh Cllr. PJ Ryan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. John Crowe agus glacadh leis:

That this MD would request the road design office to design a footpath, lighting and drainage for the Low Road, Bunratty between Bunratty Castle and the Ministers Cross (l3040), and that this office would cost same.

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

This road has been identified as a potential route for the extension of the Bunratty to Sixmilebridge greenway project. The road will need to be assessed and modifications made to make it suitable for pedestrian use alongside vehicular traffic.

This Motion received the full support of all the Members. 

Item no. 6 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. PJ Ryan

Ar molagh Cllr. PJ Ryan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. John Crowe agus glacadh leis:

That this MD would clean out and pipe roadside drain on the windy gap road l3032 adjacent to the Keogh farm.

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

The Municipal District office will arrange for work to be carried out to keep the drainage systems functioning on the windy gap road.

Item no. 7 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. PJ Ryan

Ar molagh Cllr. PJ Ryan

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

That this MD would carry out strengthening and surfacing to the Woodcock Hill Road Cratloe, as the road has become very badly damaged by heavy vehicles in recent times.

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

This has been included in our 2024 schedule of municipal district works subject to adoption at the March meeting.

Advanced works are currently taking place in preparation for this.

Cllr. PJ Ryan added as this road is used by Coillte they should be requested to contribute to the repair of the road. 

Item no. 8 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Pat McMahon

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat McMahon

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gerard Flynn agus glacadh leis:

I am requesting Clare County Council, as a matter of urgency, to provide social and affordable housing and serviced sites in Newmarket on Fergus due to the growing demand for housing in the area.

Adrian Headd, A/Senior Engineer, Social Development replied as follows:

In response to the demand for social housing in Newmarket On Fergus, 54 no. social housing units have been provided since 2017 which includes 31 units having been provided in 2020 and 18 units having been provided in 2022. While Clare County Council has no proposals to provide for social housing units in Newmarket On Fergus in 2024, we continue to explore all options regarding the future provision of social housing having regard for the current need.

Under the original eligibility criteria for affordable housing Clare did not qualify as the HNDA (Housing Needs and Demand Assessment) conducted by the Department of Housing Local Government & Heritage (DHLGH) for the county as a whole did not meet their affordability constraint threshold.  However, following a detailed submission to the DHLGH, Clare County Council received approval in principle to submit detailed applications to the fund for specific developments. Our submission was primarily based on a pilot study on Housing Needs & Demand Assessment with a particular focus on affordability challenges in the towns of Ennis and Shannon. Subsequently the department announced that they would welcome proposals for settlements outside of the larger urban areas and in this regard Clare County Council continues to seek expressions of interest in relation to developer led proposals across the county to include Newmarket On Fergus.

Currently Clare County Council does not have a suitable land bank within Newmarket On Fergus in order to meet the criteria and provide sites for purchase under the serviced sites scheme.  Similar to the above Clare County Council continues to explore all options regarding the provision of this scheme across the county having regard for the details and eligibility criteria of the scheme.

Item no. 9 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Pat McMahon

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat McMahon

Cuidithe ag Cllr. John Crowe agus glacadh leis:

Following the Governments recent review on speed, I am requesting that Clare County Council to consider painting speed limits on the surface of the roads.  

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

These road marking features have been used in conjunction with other measures in traffic calming schemes. The Municipal District will discuss options around delivering this with the road design office and the other Municipal District offices in the county in order to ensure consistency of approach.

Item no. 10 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Pat McMahon

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat McMahon

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Michael Begley agus glacadh leis:

I am requesting Clare County Council to remove the bend on the road opposite the old water tower in Carnakilla, Newmarket On Fergus as this is a hazard for motorists and walkers on this route known locally as the “long sweep”. 

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

Removal of this bend would potentially lead to increased speeds on the road. The office will place warning signs along the route advising drivers to the presence of walkers.

We would also propose working with local community groups to deliver a nationally recognised walking route on both the long and short sweep routes.

Cllr. Michael Begley added that a proposed development on this road has a condition attached to its planning permission regarding sight lines at the bend. When development takes place, it will address the concerns at no extra cost to the Council.

Item no. 11 - 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 provide an update on the progress of the installation of relevant equipment in order to enable the safe and timely repairs of public lighting in the Shannon Municipal District.

Michael McNamara, A/Senior Executive Engineer, Roads & Transportation replied as follows:

Clare County Council are engaged with both Enerveo, as appointed maintenance contractor for Clare, and ESB Networks on an ongoing basis with a view to ensuring the repair of faulty public lighting in a timely manner. However, as much of the public lighting infrastructure in Shannon is forming part of an ageing network it does not comply with current ESB standards and in some scenario’s column replacements are necessary.

Where upgrade works are required, these must be completed in compliance with ESB’s public lighting network requirements which require additional interface and civils works by Enerveo. At locations of completed upgrade works it will allow for reduced repair timelines and outage extents in the future.

Clare County Council continues to engage and liaise with Enerveo and ESB Networks to promote increased allocated resources with a view to ensuring outage periods are reduced going forward.

Item no. 12 - 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 carry out maintenance and enhancement of Shannon Town Park and to address safety concerns in the pump track and also examine the created water features that need some attention.

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

Maintenance works have been carried out on the pump track in the park during 2023.  In January of 2024 an audit of the playground and pumptrack was carried out and we are awaiting the report on that audit.

The park receives daily visits by our mini-road sweeper from Monday to Friday and is visited six days a week by employees of the Shannon Social Economy group who carry out litter pick-ups on our behalf.  Shannon Tidy Towns in conjunction with local schools also arrange regular litter picks in the park.

The water feature is intended to naturally regenerate as the growing season commences, occasionally we are required to clear litter from this area.

The park has retained its green flag status for the last three years and is contributes significantly to the social heart of the town.

Cllr. Gerard Flynn added that the water feature needs further assessment.  The pumptrack has a build-up of moss and in parts tarmacadam is coming off. 

Item no. 13 - 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 the Councils Senior Executive Engineer for the Shannon District to urgently appoint a contractor to carry out essential work on trees throughout the area. The removal of a number of trees due to health and safety concerns near the mini-roundabout on Drumgeely road and adjacent to the green area Tola Park.  A number of trees in Cul na Greine estate and Cluainin also some trees on Tullyvarraga road near Gleann na Smol.  The cutting back of trees in Corrib drive, the Oasis Garden and Ballycasey area.  The window of opportunity to carry out this work due to conservation issues and the nesting season is very small and needs to be adhered to by the Council.

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

A contractor has been appointed by the Municipal District Office.  While the Wildlife Act limits the cutting season from March 1^st to August 31^st there are exceptional circumstances where trees can be limbed or removed during the nesting season where there is a road safety concern.

Cllr. Gerard Flynn added that the appointment of one contractor for the entire district is not sufficient and will raise this with Senior Management.

Item no. 14 - 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 provide a gully to collect water that is pooling outside 64 Riverdale, Westbury. This new gully would need to be connected to an existing gully which is just a couple of meters away. This would alleviate flooding from the outside of these houses.

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

This has been assessed and works to alleviate the situation have been added to our works schedule.

Item no. 15 - 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 arrange for the sign that displays the railway bridge height situated at the old house pub/undertakers in Sixmilebridge be re-positioned. This sign needs to be raised as when cars are parked in this area the sign is not visible to traffic.  On this sign there needs to be the height restrictions for Guerins Bridge (Sixmilebridge) and Poulawilly Bridge in Cratloe.

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

This office has been in contact with Iarnrod Éireann for clarification on the bridge clearances and location of signs.

Cllr. O’Gorman added that following an incident last year when a truck hit Poulawilly Bridge this resulted in the closure of the road and also the rail line from Limerick to Ennis. 

Cllr. PJ Ryan suggested that the Council erect the signs but also added that Iarnrod Éireann should modify the bridge as it is not fit for purpose and that appropriate infrastructure should be put in place. Cllr. Ryan also stated that the CE of Iarnrod Éireann Mr. Jim Meade should be invited to a meeting of the Shannon MD to discuss same. 

Cllr. O’Gorman also stated that contact should be made with the adjoining landowner who may be favourable to giving land to make the bridge safer. 

This Motion received the full support of the Members.

Item no. 16 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Ar molagh Cllr. Pat O’Gorman

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Michael Begley agus glacadh leis:

That this MD would liaise with Bobby O’Connell and Sons Ltd. with the view of getting the gullies/drainage on the road located in Ballycar South/Ballyfinneen and also Quinspool up to a standard that can cater for the traffic that uses this road. 

As part of this road is located in the Killaloe MD, I am requesting the Senior Executive Engineer to liaise with the Killaloe MD in completing these works on this road. 

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

The Municipal District office have carried out clearance works during December 2023 along this road. One gully remains to be raised.

The office will investigate the possibility of including the road for strengthening in conjunction with our colleagues in the Killaloe Municipal District office.

 

A discussion followed in relation to this Motion.  It was agreed that the quarry owner had contributed to the funding of repair works to the road under development levies attached to previous planning permissions in relation to the quarry.  However, the road continues to be used by heavy goods vehicles using the quarry, it requires drainage works, is not of sufficient width and is still not fit for purpose. It was agreed that a more long-term solution and a source of funding should be sought. 

Tom Mellett added that there is an issue with gullies on the road and no survey of the drains has been carried out.  The road is not built for heavy goods vehicles as it is too narrow and the construction of the road is failing.  He will liaise with his colleagues in the Killaloe MD on this matter. 

This Motion received the full support of all the Members.

Item no. 17 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gerard Flynn agus glacadh leis:

That in order to protect houses in Finian facing onto the Boreen (Slí na Mara) that are continuously being pelted with items such rocks and stones.

That something be put in place in order to help to stop this behaviour.

 

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

Overgrowth was removed at this location in 2023. A hedge cutter will visit this walkway in the coming weeks to ensure any grow back is kept to a minimum. The mini road sweeper travels this location on a regular basis to clear any debris.

If issues persist the option of removing all remaining vegetation, on the housing side, can be considered.

I have also requested an assessment of the public lighting here.

Cllr. Donna McGettigan stated that Gardaí need to have a more visible presence of in this area and also requested that the Senior Executive Engineer make contact with the Gardai on this issue. 

Item no. 18 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gerard Flynn agus glacadh leis:

That funding be sourced to clear and repair footpaths along Inis Rí, Inis Fail area.  In places the path is so overgrown that it is forcing people to walk out on the road that has a few blind bends.

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

This area has been assessed and sections of footpath will be included in the 2024 footpath maintenance contract.  Due to the length of footpaths in the area it we will be required to complete a full upgrade over more than one contract.

Item no. 19 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Ar molagh Cllr. Donna McGettigan

Cuidithe ag Cllr. Gerard Flynn agus glacadh leis:

Can funding be found to repair a footpath that leads from the black path at the back of Cill Chais up to the path leading onto point 3 on the Shannon Loop.  This footpath continuously floods and is very narrow in places.  It is a popular connection path onto the Shannon Loop Walk.

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

The walkway will be assessed and immediate issues addressed. The area would be suitable for a future outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme and the office will investigate options for this.

Item no. 20 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Michael Begley

Ar molagh Cllr. Michael Begley

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

That a storm water drainage problem on the Derryfadda road (l-3062) be rectified.

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

An assessment of drainage along this road will be carried. Direct contact with any particular property owner will occur as part of the assessment.

Item no. 21 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Michael Begley

Ar molagh Cllr. Michael Begley

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

That this MD would research a suitable traffic signalling system for blind approaches to humpback bridges.

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

Traffic control measures should be considered on a location-by-location basis. There are various solution which can be used to signal a change road situation ahead and the local environment pertaining to any location will dictate the appropriate measure.

Item no. 22 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. Michael Begley

Ar molagh Cllr. Michael Begley

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

That this MD would request Bus Éireann to revise it’s new policy of no pick-up or stop offs between the “official” stop points on all their rural routes in particular.

The Members expressed disappointment in regard to the service provided by Bus Éireann and are receiving complaints from constituents on this matter.  It was requested by the Members that Bus Éireann be invited to an M.D. meeting of the Shannon MD or a Special Meeting. 

Mr. Alan Farrell agreed to discuss this matter with the Transportation SPC and will forward this Motion to Bus Éireann. 

Item no. 23 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. John Crowe

Ar molagh Cllr. John Crowe

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

I am seeking a temporary measure to be put in place on the bridge in Sixmilebridge to allow the safe passage of pedestrians from one side to the other until the new foot bridge is erected. 

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

An initial assessment of the bridge indicates the potential to introduce a marked pedestrian walkway.  It should be noted this is not a detailed assessment and the wider impact of such a measure on issues such as traffic and safety will need to be considered in greater detail.

In the longer-term Clare County Council is working with local Councillors and the Sixmilebridge town team to deliver a permanent solution to pedestrian traffic across the bridge.

This motion received the full support of all the Members.  

The safety of pedestrians using this bridge was expressed due to the volume of traffic on this bridge.

Item no. 24 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. John Crowe

Ar molagh Cllr. John Crowe

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

I am requesting that the flooding on the R471 Cappagh road would be rectified as this is causing major problems for the people living on this road, pedestrians and cars travelling on the road. The area of the road runs as far as Cappagh Cross.

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

This office will arrange for a crew to visit this area and carry out necessary maintenance to existing drainage infrastructure.

Item no. 25 - Notice of motion submitted by Cllr. John Crowe

Ar molagh Cllr. John Crowe

Cuidithe ag Cllr. PJ Ryan agus glacadh leis:

I am requesting that street's lights would be installed on Junction 5 on the N18 coming from Limerick and Junction 7 on the same road coming from Ennis as there are no lights on either of these exits. 

It was agreed that this MD would write to Transport Infrastructure Ireland on this matter.

Item no. 26 - Correspondence

-        Letter from Shannon Tidy Towns re designated sites for election posters.

Cllr. Gerard Flynn stated that he could not support the proposal put forward by Shannon Tidy Towns on the designation of sites for the display of election posters.  He stated that candidates should not be denied the opportunity to display posters.  The remaining Councillors supported the proposal put forward by the Tidy Towns. 

-          An invitation to celebrate World Wetlands Day in Shannon on Friday 2^nd February at 12.30pm in the Seán Lemass Public Library, Shannon was circulated at the meeting. 

Item no. 27 - AOB

-        Date & venue for the March meeting of the Shannon MD.

It was agreed that the next meeting of the Shannon MD would take place on Tuesday 19^th March. 

 

This concluded the business of the meeting.

 

 

Signed:                                                             Signed:                                                       

            Cathaoirleach                                                          Meeting Administrator

 

 

Dated:                                                           

Page last reviewed: 23/01/24

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