This article is from page 9 of the 2011-10-11 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 9 JPG
THERE are fears that a contentious housing development in Shannon will not be completed for several months. That’s the view of local councillors, in relation to an affordable housing scheme at Cluain Airne.
The 22-unit scheme development got underway in June 2009 and it was initially envisaged that it would be completed within a year. However, it was subsequently halted and the initial contractor’s contract was terminated.
The scheme got underway despite concerns from local residents, who objected to the project. They stated that they did not want the houses built in the area and argued that there was inadequate infrastructure in the area to cope with the new houses.
Residents have also expressed concerns over the closure of the right of way. A new contractor was appointed in July of this year and the council expressed hope at the time that the project would be completed within 16 weeks of its restart.
At a meeting of Shannon Town Council last week, Independent Councillor Patricia McCarthy said it was important that progress reports are provided, given the difficulties experienced by residents.
“I’d prefer if there was a timescale and if works to be completed were listed,” she said.
Independent Councillor Gerry Flynn said, “There have been extreme problems with this particular development. What happened in Cluain Airne is disgraceful. It has been a total shambles. . . Getting information here is like pulling hen’s teeth. It’s not acceptable to me,” he said. “This has been unbelievable. I hope something like it never visits us here in Shannon again,” he said.
He said that unlike council officials, elected representatives have to defend their seats every five years.
“We have to defend our seats every five years. Officials don’t have to defend their seats. They are pretty much like teachers. They have a job for life,” he said.
Fine Gael Councillor Seán McLoughlin said he was interested to hear how much the houses are likely to cost, as several people have enquired in relation to this.
His party colleague, Councillor Mike Fleming said, “It’s nowhere near being finished. We’ll be lucky if it’s finished in two or three years’ time with the rate we are going.”
Labour Councillor Tony McMahon said he believes that the target finish date – of 16 weeks from the resumption – is not likely to be met.
Town Manager Bernadette Kinsella said, “We will try to file as much detail as we can on a monthly basis. We have a contract with the contractor. It is a matter for the contractor to seek an extension of time. We have received no such request.”