No money for Gibraltar plan
THERE’S no money to refurbish the Gibraltar amenity area or the development of a linear park from the seashore to the docks area, the Sligo Municipal District meeting was told.
The issue had been raised by Councillor Declan Bree who had asked for an up to date report outlining the preparation of plans to seek grant aid for the proposal.
In report read to the meeting by Director of Services Tom Kilfeather he said that while the Sligo and Environs Development Plan had a specific objective to develop a linear park linking Gibraltar to Sligo’s docklands, there was currently no plans to progress this unless a clear funding source became available.
“Nor, are there current plans or funding for the refurbishment of the Gibraltar amenity area. It is not considered likely that such schemes will be progressed over the short to medium term,” he said.
Clr Bree said he was very disappointed with the report and asked the executive if they could at least come forward with some costings for the proposals.
He said phase one should be the reinstatement of a safe swimming area.
Supporting Clr Bree, Clr Chris MacManus said it was sad to see the condition of the pool at present and he queried its safety.
Chief Executive Ciaran Hayes said it was not an issue of it being the executive and the members on this matter.
“We are with you. We would love to develop this amenity but the issue is resources,” he told Clr Bree.
Earlier, Clr Bree had stated that in February 2015 he proposed a draft plan be prepared and grant aid sought.
He recalled how in the 1950’s the council developed a tidal swimming pool and coastal walkway at Gibraltar and it was very popular.
Little or no maintenance was carried out on the pool and through time it was damaged by the elements along with the pathways.