Councillors not happy about Ovens estate bond

COUNCILLORS were far from happy by the response from the council’s director of planning on pursuing a bond for Grange Manor Estate in Ovens.

At the Blarney Macroom municpal meeting, Cllr Bob Ryan (FF) – who is also the chairman – had previously referred to a notice of motion on the estate which was built by Ruden Homes. Cllr Ryan wanted to have the estate taken in charge and the bond released.

However, at Friday’s meeting, a response was furnished by John O’Neill, Director of Planning, who wrote that Ruden Homes remains active and has carried out works as required to services in the estate, such as public lighting and a waste water treatment plant. He wrote that under these circumstances, it is not considered appropriate for the council to pursue the payment of the bond at this time.

In response, Cllr Ryan asked for evidence that work has been done.

Cllr Des O’Grady (SF) added: “Residents will say that Ruden Homes do not respond to them or to the council, and there is photographic evidence, along with a petition.”

Cllr Michael Creed (FG) said: “Ruden Homes are wanting us to do stuff for them. What we should do is write to them and state that we are not happy with them. They are lobbying us to get stuff done but now we need to play ball too with them.”

Cllr Gobnait Moynihan (FF) said: “If this statement [from Mr O’Neill] was true, then we would not have any problems.”