Moves to transfer ownership of vacant residential building in south Mayo town

MAYO County Council is working to take ownership of the residential building An Tinteain in Claremorris.

The premises at James Street comprises eight apartments, with three houses at the rear, and has been closed for the last 20 years.

Local Councillor Richard Finn questioned the up-to-date situation on the building, which was initially developed by an approved housing body, at a municipal meeting this week.

He was advised that the local authority is currently liaising with its legal representative to progress the transfer of the property into the ownership of Mayo County Council.

Describing it as 'a hot potato' for the last 20 years, Councillor Finn urged council management to get on with the transfer asap, saying there cannot be any more delays.

Councillor Alma Gallagher said it would be ideal for age-friendly housing in the heart of the town.

There is an opportunity there to develop An Tinteain and make it a great asset for Claremorris.

Director of services Tom Gilligan said it is a complex case but it is being dealt with.