Category — Community notice board

There is a review of the Planning & Development Act going through the Oireachtas at the moment and the issue of ensuring that Local Authorities are in a position to take particular roads and other services in their charge is a critical one which I hope the review will act on.

In relation to the the playing pitches in Ardfield I have emails going back to 2004 in an effort to get the issue of this area of ground taken in charge. Various viewpoints have been given to me over the years from officials and I am completely frustrated that there has been no progress in the matter. Its a sad reflection of our systems.

The latest update is as follows “… understanding is that these lands were specifically earmakred as playing pitches as distinct from public open space. However, ownership of the lands still vests in the developer/owner and accordingly, the land has not been taken in charge or handed over to the Council. Until such time as this occurs, the Council are not in a position to deal with the laqnds in the context of future utilisation.

This is totally unsatisfactory as the area surrounding the pitches has been subject to anti social behaviour and litter. This is not fair on the nearby residents and copperfastens the lack of proper framework in the planning bill.

I see this year’s annual golf classic is in Douglas Golf Club on Friday 9th July next. As I am fairly new to the world of golf (I have the bag, clubs and jacket) I am tentatively pencilling myself in with three super golfers to make up for my total lack of expertise! Namely my son and brothers! The teams cost 200 euros and is for a great cause as the fundraising activities are more precious now more than ever. I urge all to try and support.