Dismay at no funding for the port route
It was with dismay, when I read reports in the local Press that once again, Drogheda does not figure in the major allocation of funds from the Urban Regeneration & Development Scheme.
It will result in the Northern Cross Route not being earmarked for development in the short to medium term by Louth County Council. This is a disgraceful situation as this scheme was first mooted in 2004 and has planning permission for variant housing and social schemes within the territory identified as the Northern Environs already. Will these much needed projects be put in abeyance and not see the light of day for another generation?
The NCR is urgently required to provide affordable homes for our growing young local population and facilities to attract commercial activity and employment. It would alleviate heavy vehicles having to negotiate the streets of Drogheda, as at present, thereby causing traffic chaos at times, not to mention safety concerns and damage to the towns infrastructure. It would facilitate the building of a new railway station north of the town, which would be wholeheartedly welcome by commuters from South Louth.
The development of the Northern Cross Route must be prioritised by the Local Authority and pressure put on the Government to reverse their decision forthwith and provide the necessary funding. It is not good enough that the biggest town in Ireland is ignored in this way and Louth Co. Council and the government should be made explain their utter failure in looking after our people and their cavalier fashion in dismissing our legitimate claim for assistance from the Urban Regeneration & Development fund.
In the meantime, I welcome the Category B funding acquired for the West Gate Development and advise that affordable housing can be provided on the newly purchased land, with access through Aston Village pending the development of the NCR.
Is mise,