By Dan Walsh at Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council meeting
Recent survey results for a five-year Community Development Plan for the communities of Tara Hill, Ballymoney and Castletown to determine the prioritisation for funding applications and development were revealed at last Tuesday’s monthly meeting of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal Council held in the Civic Centre, Gorey. Cllr Diarmuid Devereux (Leas-Cathaoirleach) in the chair.
Representatives from Tara Hill, Ballymoney and Castletown were present at the meeting where a comprehensive summary of the findings from their website household and youth surveys aimed at finding out what everyone would like developed in our communities. The findings were presented to the members by Dr. Yvonne Byrne from Rural Development Consultancy Ltd.
A number of topics were raised including walking and cycling trails, access for all, disability access to beaches, the national schools, the GAA and the Ahare River. There was mention of the recreational experience of Ballymonye Blue Flag Beach.
Dr. Byrne told the meeting that a draft report is to be finalised, working groups are being set up and funding is being sought, most likely from the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.
Cllr Devereux complimented the communities on a very comprehensive presentation which he suggested “is doable”.
Cllr Joe Sullivan welcomed the communities and acknowledged the huge work they have been doing for years. He complimented them on the survey results and the large public support received. “This is a red-letter day for the three communities and when the plan is in place it will be reflective of what people want,” concluded Cllr. Sullivan.
Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin spoke of “very useful data” gathered in the survey and wondered if there could be a link up with other areas like Kilanerin and Ballyfad and tie-in with the walking trails and coastal area. “The 23 acres on Tara Hill could be expanded to a greater area – a hill beside a beach – and there is massive potential to develop walking trails,” he added.
Cllr Anthony Donohoe alluded to the results in Kilanerin and it could be the same here (Tara Hill, Ballymoney, Castletown) and saw potential for building a community centre and the involvement of the youth groups.
Cllr Andrew Bolger complimented the representatives of the three communities and described plans as “very positive” and was impressed that over 200 responded to the Youth Survey. He suggested linking up with the likes of Gorey Youth Needs for further discussion and he also felt that a shuttle bus service linking Gorey would be a great idea.
Cllr Pip Breen welcomed the representatives to the meeting. He claims the Courtown to Gorey footpath should be finished first, but he acknowledged that the group had gone a long way and had their homework done.
Cllr Mary Farrell added her support. She felt the recommendation was “doable and workable” and reminded the meeting that the Local Link bus service works well during the summer and suggested contact would be welcomed and discussion could start.
Cllr Willie Kavanagh said it was a great presentation and reflected the need for a good community centre, sports grants etc. “One of the main priorities is to get a community centre as soon as you can,” advised Cllr Kavanagh.
Mr Joe Roche thanked the members for facilitating the presentation and acknowledged their support from the meeting.
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