Works on four apartments in Leitrim town expected to take 15 months

A contractor is expected to be appointed shortly for works to redevelop a derelict Council-owned building in Ballinamore into four one-bedroom apartments, with the project expected to take 15 months.

At a meeting of Ballinamore Municipal District on September 23, Cllr Gary Prior asked for an update on the apartments, including whether a contractor had been appointed, when construction works were expected to start, and what the timeframe for completion would be.

“As the building is located on Main Street, I would ask that every effort is made to keep the disruption to local businesses and the public to a minimum while the works are taking place,” Cllr Prior’s motion stated.

“I’m conscious that there’s a supermarket nearby that pays very heavy rates. I’d be looking that minimum disruption would be caused, though I appreciate that a certain amount has to be,” he said.

An official response confirmed that the tender for the housing project has been assessed and that it is envisaged the successful contractor will be appointed within the next two weeks.

The expected timeframe for the works is 15 months.

“A construction project of this nature will involve some disruption on Main Street but every effort will be made to limit the effect on the public and neighbouring businesses,” the response concluded.

“It’s a derelict building that’s about to fall down, so it’s very much welcome. I’m just conscious of trying not to disrupt any footfall,” added Cllr Prior.

The motion was seconded by Cllr Ita Reynolds-Flynn.