Cahersiveen needs proper planning say trader group

LOCAL BUSINESSES APPEAL TO KERRY COUNTY COUNCIL TO HELP THE TOWN

A CONSULTANT is to be appointed to Cahersiveen to develop a suitable strategic plan for the town and help develop and promote business into the future.

The news follows a council deputation on Friday made up of a number of Cahersiveen traders who called on Kerry County Council to address the issue of derelict buildings which they claim are a blight on the town.

Addressing councillors and engineers at the South and West Municipal District meeting, Jack Fitzpatrick fronted a group of 10 business owners representing New Market Street East End Business Owners group.

“The main thoroughfare in the town from New Market Street on the Glenbeigh side to New Street on the Waterville side is marred with derelict commercial sites, derelict commercial buildings and derelict dwelling houses,” he said.

“It is our view that for as long as the main thoroughfare in the town remains as is, blighted with run-down buildings, the hundreds and thousands of visitors passing through will continue to do just that, drive straight through.

“We are requesting that the local authority put the very necessary structures and investments in place as a matter of extreme urgency. Without this, our town will continue to decline,” he continued.

Mr Fitzpatrick said that some of the derelict buildings are owned by property speculators and are boarded with no rates having to be paid. He called on council officials and local councillors to act now as he considers Cahersiveen to be the worst-performing town in the county, one with an ever-decreasing population.

Kerry County Council officials said they will help facilitate the development of a chamber alliance working together under the one heading.

And the officials added that a consultant is to be appointed with a view to creating a strategic plan for the town.

Responding to the deputation, councillors said that the proposed South Kerry Greenway was a key project, but other concerns must be addressed. Cllr Damian Quigg said that industry for the area must also be looked at. Cllr Johnny Healy Rae said that footpaths and street lighting are in a “terrible state”.