Possibility of a new childcare facility in Tallow

The potential for a new childcare facility in Tallow was highlighted recently as queries were raised regarding a site in the west Waterford town, near the local school.

Having raised the matter previously at council meetings, local councillor James Tobin asked at Monday’s meeting of the Dungarvan Lismore District about the potential use of the field going forward.

According to the councillor, the field was bought by Waterford City and County Council some years ago with the intention of developing housing on the site, however, this never came to fruition.

“When the bust came, the field was taken over by a housing agency under the department. There are other things that are in mind for Tallow and can this field be used for other purposes besides housing?” Cllr Tobin queried.

FEASIBLE PROJECTS

Director of Housing with Waterford City and County Council, Ivan Grimes, responded stating that he has discussed potential uses for the site with the housing agency, having been approached by a number of people.

Mr Grimes explained that some years ago, there was a scheme whereby development sites were acquired by the council with a debt attached, and councils had to transfer sites and associated debts to the housing agency with management at a national level.

“It is a large site within the town, and I approached the housing agency most recently about the potential use of a part of that land as a childcare facility,” he said.

He added that the housing agency indicated that if there is a feasible project for the site, some part or all of the land would be released back to the council.

“It is something I know that the local childcare community are looking to advance,” Mr Grimes noted.

Speaking with The Avondhu, Cllr Tobin noted other potential uses of the site for the locality, including the need for a new fire station, as well as housing in the area.