Laois County Council urged to take estates in charge within ten years
Laois County Council should take estates in charge within ten years, a meeting was told.
The suggestion was made as the council was asked to take an estate in charge.
Fianna Fail Cllr Padraig Fleming asked: “That Laois County Council give an update and timing on the taking in charge of Crossneen Manor, Graiguecullen following the residents’ signatures handed in requesting same and also to include the finalisation of the new cable (Ref Public Lights Issue).”
In response to the motion, Evelyn Brownrigg at Laois County Council's Planning stated: “A request to have this estate taken in charge was received by the Planning Authority on the 29th August 2023 and we are currently validating the request from the plebiscite. If in order, the estate will be examined and costings will be prepared to finalise works, if any. As constructed drawings and cctv will also need to be completed for this estate. With regard to the public lighting, the Electrical Contractor has submitted a quotation for the repair to the lights and has advised that the works will be completed over the coming weeks.”
Cllr Fleming explained that all of the lights in the estate had been operated off one photocell switch but they should have each had a switch.
“They have now arranged for a photocell to be put on top of all the lights,” he said.
He said there would be a cost if the bond is not delivered and he asked that delays in taking estates in charge be avoided.
“Estates now should be taken in charge within ten years while the bonds are active,” said Cllr Fleming.
“After ten years you will know whether there is a problem or not,” he continued.
Sinn Fein Cllr Aidan Mullins said he was glad to see it was coming to a conclusion. He said bonds shouldn’t be allowed to lapse.
Independent Cllr Aisling Moran agreed with her council colleagues. She said developers should not be able to walk away with their bonds.
“I think the onus is on the council to make sure that the bond is there,” said Cllr Moran.
Cllr Fleming said he fully agreed. “There has to be a whole rethink,” he said.
“The council will become fully liable for everything that’s to be done in these estates,” said Cllr Fleming.
The issue was discussed at the latest meeting of Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District.