Next steps underway in taking in charge of Leitrim estate

Leitrim County Council is reviewing costs and negotiating potential contributions before proceeding with a public consultation phase to take part of Drumkeeran estate, Windmill Park, in charge. 

This follows a motion by Cllr Pádraig Fallon, who requested an update on the taking in charge process for the estate at a meeting of Manorhamilton Municipal District.

He highlighted that significant surface works are needed in part of the estate, warning it poses a potential hazard if not already one.

Cllr Fallon was informed the Council must ensure funding is in place to pay contractors; otherwise, alternative short-term solutions may have to be considered in place of the preferred long-term approach.

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A response from the Planning department outlined that the estate has two separate cul-de-sacs - one in the north, already taken in charge, and one in the south, which is the subject of a recent taking in charge request.

Following this request, the Council included the southern section in a group of estates that underwent conditional surveys and the preparation of site resolution plans.

They are now assessing the financial requirements for necessary works before issuing an Invitation to Tender.

Discussions will also be held with Uisce Éireann regarding a potential financial contribution towards water services infrastructure, which Uisce Éireann will eventually have responsibility for maintaining.

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Once resolved, the Council will proceed to the statutory public consultation phase for taking the estate in charge.

Cllr Mary Bohan proposed a similar motion, requesting an update on the taking in charge of Forest Grove estate in Dromahair. The Council issued a similar response, noting the need to ensure funding secured to pay contractors and to hold consultations with Uisce Éireann regarding potential financial contributions.