Plans to redevelop four derelict Mayo sites approved

PLANS that will remove four derelict sites from the landscape in Ballinrobe town have been approved by area councillors.

They will be replaced by 14 residential units - a mix of apartments and houses.

The sites are at Convent Road, Creagh Road, Castlebar Road and Main Street in Ballinrobe.

Four separate Part 8 planning applications came before the monthly municipal district meeting yesterday where they received full support from elected representatives.

Councillor Michael Burke said the proposals before them were exactly what Ballinrobe needs and he complimented all involved in the drawings and consultation with neighbours.

He asked that the council would continue to work with neighbouring property owners to facilitate them where possible, a point other councillors also touched on.

This has been a huge, ongoing issue for many years, but it was now a good news story, said Councillor Patsy O'Brien.

The significance of the plan was highlighted by cathaoirleach Councillor Damien Ryan – taking out four derelict sites and delivering 14 housing units, turning a negative into a positive.

Director of services Tom Gilligan said the district has led the way in delivering, and bringing these sites back into use has been very much to the fore.

There is still a lot of vacancy and dereliction that has to be addressed, he added, but this was a pivotal moment and it can be a catalyst.