Michael McNamara, Independent TD for Clare, has received confirmation from Clare County Council that it is proceeding to the design stage of the proposed Doolin Pier and Village Masterplan ahead of submitting a Planning Application.
The proposed plan proposes to provide a Visitor Services Building at Doolin Pier, enhancements of the public realm of Doolin, and improvements to movement by all transport modes between the pier and the village.
Commenting on the proposed delivery of a Visitor Services Building, Deputy McNamara said, “Clare County Council’s Project Management Office is leading the Visitor Services Building Development and is currently seeking to develop the detailed design and commence the preparation of the documentation required for the various statutory consents. The Council has informed me it is anxious to submit a Planning Application at the earliest juncture possible and to this end, the Project Team has been tasked with reviewing and revising the various works required with a view to finalising an updated programme for delivery of the scheme.”
Michael McNamara, Independent TD for Clare
“There is a requirement for additional lands for this proposal and despite the Council’s best endeavours, it has not been possible to secure the necessary lands needed by agreement. Therefore, it is intended to seek approval from An Bord Pleanála to acquire them compulsorily in parallel with the Planning application for the scheme,” he added.
In relation to the to the Doolin Village Masterplan, Deputy McNamara said plans are advanced and funding applications are currently being pursued by the West Clare Municipal District.
“These funding sources will be crucial in ensuring the implementation of the overall plan,” he added.
Deputy McNamara welcomed the progress being made on the Village Masterplan by the Local Authority’s West Clare Municipal District office.
“Earlier this year Clare County Council completed a footpath with public lighting from Fitz’s Cross to Fisher Street,” commented Deputy McNamara. “This work was completed in phases over the last few years. No works have taken place at the port apart from maintenance and repair of storm damage. It is proposed to fill in the steps on the new pier prior to next year’s season. A Port Facility Security Plan is currently being drafted, as required by the Department of Transport. This will guide the Council in infrastructure developments and staffing requirements at the port in the coming years.”
“Clare County Council is also working with Failte Ireland on the Wild Atlantic Way Infrastructure Improvement Programme and part of this includes for draft ideas in relation to parking issues at Fisher Street. This is only at concept design stage. No landowner engagement has taken place yet, and this must be a priority if the Plan is to be realised,” concluded Deputy McNamara.
