Biodiversity areas a thorn in the side of residents in Thurles

New biodiversity areas are a major issue for residents in council-run estates, Thurles-Templemore District Council has been told.

The matter was first raised by councillor Jim Ryan, at this month’s meeting, who said he has received complaints from residents in estates where the grass is not being cut by the council.

He said he understands this is being done to benefit biodiversity, but the residents are not being consulted.

He said they do work to maintain their homes but the condition of the green areas is both unsightly and can harbour rats.

Cllr Michéal Lowry agreed with his district colleague and asked the council to give it more thought.

“People’s image of a wildflower garden is colour, not thistles,” said Cllr Lowry.

He went on to say he is in favour of biodiversity areas but the council need to “do it properly.”

Roscrea councillor Shane Lee pointed out that outside the council offices “looks derelict.”

He also said that such areas are “crippling for people with asthma and hayfever.”

He asked for a “common sense” approach to biodiversity projects.

Cathaoirleach Cllr Michael Smith said the “new aesthetic” might be good for the environment, but that needs to be explained before the council puts any plans in motion.

However, District Engineer Thomas Duffy said it is about a “mindset change.”

He did acknowledge the council needs an official plan going forward.

He said Clonmel have a plan and the Thurles District missed the deadline last year.

“We will have to lead from the front and show the community where we intend to go with it,” said Mr Duffy.

District Administrator Sharon Scully told the council the plan had gone to tender.

“It’s about bringing people with you and there is a balance to be struck as well,” said Ms Scully.

Cllr Lowry queried how these areas were chosen if not in consultation with residents and councillors.

And, if an approach road might not have been a better place to start.

Mr Duffy said they are trying to move away from packets of wildflowers and allow the vegetation to grow out on its own.

He said the areas were chosen in conjunction with GSS and it does save money on maintenance.

“But in hindsight, it could have been done better,” said Mr Duffy.

Cllr Ryan pointed out that if the council don’t consult residents, they will take matters into their own hands.

He said this can't work without their cooperation.

“Residents will just get a strimmer and cut it. It won’t work,” said Cllr Ryan.

Cllr Smith said the lesson here is to communicate with the residents.

And Cllr Lowry asked that the council “get out and cut the grass” until a proper plan is put in place.