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Minutes
Meeting of the Environment Committee
22nd May 2001
Minutes of Meeting of the Environment Committee held in the Council Chamber, Council Offices, Derry Road, Strabane on Tuesday, 22nd May, 2001 at 7.30 p.m.
Present – In the Chair Councillor E. Turner, MBE Other Members:- Councillors I. Barr, Mrs. A. Bell, A. Bresland, Donnell, J. Emery, D. Hussey, T. Kerrigan, T.McBride, C. McHugh, I. Murtagh, J. O’Kane. Total = 12 In Attendance:- Acting Clerk, Deputy Chief Executive, Chief Building Control Officer, Chief Technical Officer, Technical Services Licensing Officer, Mr. T. McIvor and Mr. P. McCaughey from the Planning Service, Administrative Officer.
The Chairman said he would propose to deal with Numbers 1 and 2 on the Agenda and then move Number 5 up to item Number 3. This was agreed.
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Mr. McIvor introduced his colleague Mr. Proinsias McCaughey to the meeting. He said that Mr. McCaughey worked with him in the Strabane Area and he brought him along to familiarise him with the workings of the Council. Mr. McIvor said that there may be occasions when he would not be available to come to a Council Meeting and that Mr. McCaughey would deputise for him.
The Chairman welcomed Mr. McCaughey to the meeting.
Mr. McIvor presented the schedule of applications, a copy of which had been previously circulated to each Member. He said that there was a large list of deferred applications which he was trying to deal with.
Arising out of the schedule the following applications were discussed:-
Deferred
J/2000/0108/F – Mysbid Ltd., renovation and improvements to public bar and lounge at 8-10 Main Street, Strabane.
Mr. McIvor said that the above application was in respect of minor works to a public house at Main Street which would mean that a door from the public house would exit directly onto a Roads Service car park. Roads Service had objected to the application on the grounds that it may cause liability to them should anyone be injured emerging from the premises.
Councillor Barr said that the Roads Service had adopted a similar stance in relation to a car park at Lower Main Street. Members noted that the above application would be refused.
J/2000/0142/O – Mr. R. Moore, dwelling approx 100 metres South West of No. 11 Tievenny Road, Ardstraw, Co. Tyrone.
Mr. McIvor said that the above application had been previously with the Council as an approval but the Roads Service had objected to it on the grounds that adequate sight lines could not be provided. Mr. McIvor said that he had visited the site and agreed with the Roads Service that the exit from the site would be dangerous. The Agent had been made aware of the difficulties.
It was agreed that a site meeting would be held in connection with the Application and that Officials from the Roads Service would be present.
J/2000/0310/F – Dervarc, 13 No. 1-Bedroom Flats for Housing Association between 1A Upper Main Street and 3-5 (Units 11 & 12) Main Street & bounded by Brigade Terrace, Strabane.
Councillor O’Kane asked if the access had been agreed as discussed at the site meeting. Mr. McIvor said that he had been in discussions with the Architect and the indications were quite positive. It was agreed that the application would be held in abeyance for 14 days to ensure that all matters had been resolved to the satisfaction of the residents of Brigade Terrace.
J/2000/0440/O – Mr. R. Blair, dwelling and garage 330m NE of No. 10 Evish Road, Calhame, Strabane.
Mr. McIvor explained that Mr. White had visited this site and was of the mind that the site was unacceptable. He said that need had been established and he had identified an alternative site. Subsequent to that the Agent had stated that the land on which the alternative site was identified was not in the ownership of the Applicant but rather his brother.
Councillor Donnell said he was bitterly disappointed that the above application had not gone through. He said that the Applicant was married and was now living in Ardstraw. He had a herd of milking cows and needed to live on the farm.
It was agreed that an office meeting would be held with the Divisional Planning Manager and that maps showing the extent of Mr. Blair’s ownership would be available for that meeting.
Councillor McHugh said that a number of applications had been refused on Roads issues and asked if there had been a change of policy by the Roads Service or the Planners. Mr. McIvor said that the Roads Service was a Consultee of the Department and if applications could not meet the guidelines set down by the Roads Service then they would recommend that the application would be refused.
If no agreement could be reached at local level then the application was referred to a higher level.
J/2000/0444/O – Mr. M. Muldoon, proposed dwelling and garage 240m South West of No. 15 Learmore Road, Castlederg.
Mr. McIvor informed Members that the above application had been withdrawn. This was noted by Members.
J/2000/0462/O – Mr. N. Quinn, domestic dwelling 242M East of 86 Gortaclare Road, Cleggan North, Donemana.
Mr. McIvor stated that following reconsideration the above application was now recommended for approval. Councillor McBride welcomed the decision.
J/2000/0546/O – Mr. & Mrs. G. Baird, dwelling and garage 90M West of 9 Learmore Road, Castlegore, Castlederg.
Mr. McIvor said that the above application had been reconsidered and the Divisional Planning Manager had also looked at the site and was of the opinion that the site was unacceptable.
In reply to Councillor Hussey, Mr. McIvor said that the alternative site submitted was unacceptable and the Agent had been informed.
It was agreed that an office meeting with the Divisional Planning Manager would be arranged.
J/2000/0581/O – Mr. D. Dolan, dwelling and garage 100M SW of 1 Mullanabreen Road, Mullanabreen, Castlederg.
Mr. McIvor informed Members that the above application had been withdrawn.
J/2000/0604/O – Mr. D. Conwell, proposed new dwelling and garage 70M West of 21 Barron Road, Strabane.
Mr. McIvor said that the above application had been referred to the Divisional Planning Manager who had visited the site and was of the opinion that the application should be refused.
Councillor McBride asked if contact had been made with the Applicant with regard to identifying an alternative site and in response Mr. McIvor said that it was not normal practice for this to be done. He said that when on a site meeting he would look to see if an alternative site was available. Councillor McBride asked if it would be appropriate for Mr. Conwell to withdraw the application. Mr. McIvor said that the Applicant could submit another application at any time.
Councillor Hussey asked if Planning Clinics were still held and if so why were they not available in Strabane and not the other 2 electoral areas.
Mr. McIvor said that the Planning Clinic was still operating in Strabane and at that Clinic advice was given to applicants but Officers did not go out on site as this was not possible due to the volume of applications received. Mr. McIvor said that it was policy to have one Clinic operating in each Council Area.
J/2000/0610/O – Mr. W.A. Moore, dwelling house and domestic garage 40m east of junction of Drumlegagh Road with Drumlegagh Church Road, Newtownstewart.
Mr. McIvor said that the above application had been referred to the Divisional Planning Manager and he was still of the opinion that the application should be refused as it was outside the development limit for Drumlegagh.
The Chairman said he was disappointed with the outcome of the Application.
J/2000/0628/O – Mr. B. McGettigan, dwelling house and domestic garage immediately adjacent to 46 Hollyhill Road, Strabane.
Members noted that the above application had been referred to the Divisional Planning Manager and was still recommended for refusal.
J/2000/0629/O – Mr. H. Brown, dwellinghouse and domestic garage 100m SW of 10 Dernalebe Road, Dernalebe, Strabane.
Members noted that the above site had been visited by the Divisional Planning Manager and the recommendation of refusal still stood.
J/2000/0035/O – Miss G. Rogers, storey and a half dwelling and domestic garage 150M North of Junction of Gortaclare Road with Lisnaragh Road, Donemana.
Mr. McIvor informed Members that the above application had been withdrawn but an alternative site had been identified and an application was expected shortly.
J/2001/0053/RM – Mr. H. Donnell, dwelling site 1 11a Towncastle Road, Castletown, Strabane.
J/2001/0054/RM – Mr. H. Donnell, dwelling site 2 11a Towncastle Road, Castletown, Strabane.
Members noted that the above applications were recommended for approval.
J/2001/0064/O – Mr. J. McCloskey, site for dwelling to rear of 15 Woodend Road, Strabane.
It was agreed that an Office Meeting would be arranged with the Divisional Planning Manager in connection with the above.
J/2001/0080/O – Mr. J. Martin, dwelling and domestic garage 100m SE of 112 Urney Road, Strabane.
Mr. McIvor informed Members that the above application was in respect of a dwelling to the rear of several other dwellings and the access was quite some distance from the proposed dwelling. He said that the application would create infill opportunities and would be difficult to integrate. Members noted that the application would be refused.
J/2001/0082/O – Miss L. Quinn, bungalow and domestic garage 240m SE of 21 Cavanalee Road, Strabane.
Mr. McIvor informed Members that the above application had been reconsidered following the site meeting and it was still the opinion of the Department to refuse the application as the site was elevated and prominent. He said he felt that the application would be withdrawn.
Councillor McBride said that there was great difficulty with planning applications in the Cavanalee, Dergalt and Legfordrum areas due to the nature of the topography and asked that an office meeting be arranged with the Divisional Planning Manager to discuss these difficulties.
J/2001/0090/O – Mr. G. Gallagher, new dwelling and domestic garage approx. 60m west of 18 Strahulter Road, Newtownstewart.
It was agreed that an office meeting with the Divisional Planning Manager be held in connection with the above application.
J/2001/0091/O – Mr. J. Kerlin, storey-and-half dwelling and detached garage 20 M East of 58 Towncastle Road, Strabane.
Councillor McBride welcomed the recommendation of approval in respect of the above application.
J/2001/0100/O – J. Lecky, site for dwelling 50m west of 157 Duncastle Road, Mountcastle, Donemana.
Mr. McIvor explained that an approval had been granted in respect of a dwelling on the above site to Mr. Lecky but he now wished to sub-divide the site and the Department were not prepared to approve this. It was agreed that an office meeting with the Divisional Planning Manager would be arranged.
J/2001/0138/O – Mr. I. Parkhill, site for dwelling house immediately South West of 62 Ardcame Road, Fawney Townland, Donemana.
Members noted that the above application was recommended for approval following the site meeting.
J/2001/0145/F – Mr. D. McMahon, dwelling and garage opposite No. 10 Grove Road, Castlederg.
Mr. McIvor explained that the above application had been recommended for approval subject to certain specific conditions regarding design. Councillor Kerrigan said that a meeting had been held with Mr. Hughes last Thursday and he was hopeful that the matter could be resolved.
Mr. McIvor said he had spoken to the Divisional Planning Manager earlier in the afternoon and he was still of the opinion to refuse the applications.
Councillor Turner referred to the meeting with the Divisional Planning Manager and asked that the application be held in abeyance until the Agent submits alternative design sketches.
J/2001/.0146/F – Miss A. McGarvey, replacement dwelling at 240 Glenelly Road, Legcloghfin, Cranagh.
Councillor McBride welcomed the approval in respect of the above application.
J/2001/0170/O – Mr. M. Farrell, dwelling house and domestic garage immediately adjacent to 12 Dergalt Road, Strabane.
Councillor McBride requested that an office meeting with the Divisional Planning Manager be arranged in connection with the above.
J/2001/0177/F – Mr. B. McGillion, dwelling 30m west of 141 Glenelly Road, Cranagh, Plumbridge.
Councillor McBride welcomed the recommendation of approval in respect of the above application.
New
J/1999/0250 – Mr. C. Caldwell, construction of new access to existing retail units (Tyre Centre, Car Part Centre etc.) at 11 Lifford Road, Strabane.
Mr. McIvor said that repeated requests had been made for additional information in relation to the above application but none had been received.
It was agreed that a site meeting should be held in connection with the application.
J/2001/0159/F – Mr. T.D. McKane, proposed agricultural store adjacent to 35 Ednagee Road, Castlederg.
Councillor Kerrigan declared an interest in the above application.
J/2001/0171/O – C. & R. Williams, dwelling and domestic garage 120 M South of 330 Victoria Road, Strabane.
It was agreed that a site meeting would be arranged in connection with the above application.
J/2001/0189/O – Mr. L. Muldoon, dwelling and domestic garage 80m SE of 21 Listymore Road, Castlederg.
It was agreed that a site meeting would be held in connection with the above application. Councillor Hussey commented that there were employment issues attached to the application.
J/2001/0190/RM – Mr. & Mrs. S & M. Walker, single storey dwelling adjacent to 15 Lisdoo Road, Clady, Strabane.
It was agreed that if agreement was reached regarding design that the approval should be issued in respect of the above.
J/2001/0193/O – Mr. Corry, one and a half storey dwelling with domestic garage adjacent to 12 Castlebane Road, Castlederg.
It was agreed that a site meeting should be arranged in connection with the above application.
J/2001/0209/O – Mr. N. McCauley, dwelling and garage 50m NE of 15 Lisdoo Road, Lisdoo, Clady, Strabane.
It was agreed that a site meeting should be held in connection with the above application.
J/2001/0228/F – Ardstraw Football Club – Club House and Changing Facilities at Vaughans Holm, Newtownstewart.
Councillor Hussey welcomed the above approval and said it would fit well into the overall strategy for the district. Councillor McHugh said that credit was due to the Council for having the foresight to sell off the land at Vaughan’s Holm.
J/2001/0232/F – Mr. B.A. McNamee, extension and renovations from existing bungalow to a 2 storey dwelling at 21 Drumenny Road, Burndennett, Strabane.
Mr. McIvor said that the above application was in respect of an extension two and a half times the size of the existing dwelling.
It was agreed that a site meeting should be held in connection with the application.
J/2001/0235/O – Mr. W. R. Graham, dwelling and garage site 2 East of 18 Magheracolton Road, Newtownstewart.
J/2001/0236/O – Mr. W.R. Graham, dwelling and garage site 1 30M East of 18 Magheracolton Road, Newtownstewart.
It was agreed that a site meeting should be held in connection with the above two planning applications.
J/2001/0243/F – Mr. P. McMenamin, dwelling adjacent to 75 Cavan Road, Castlederg.
Mr. McIvor informed Members that a design had been agreed in respect of the above application and same was now recommended for approval.
J/2001/0244/O – Mr. A. Byrne, dwelling and garage adjacent to/north-west of 18 Aghalunny Road, Killeter, Castlederg.
It was agreed that a site meeting be held in connection with the above application.
J/2001/0245/O – Mr. P. Fullerton, dwelling and garage 20m South West of 28 Trienamongan Road, Castlederg.
It was agreed that a site meeting be held in connection with the above application.
J/2001/0248/O – Mr. A. Olphert, extension to existing (commercial) storage facility at 117 Dunnalong Road, Bready.
It was agreed that a site meeting be held in connection with the above application and that a representative from Roads Service be in attendance.
J/2001/0249/O – Mr. W. Russell, domestic dwelling and garage adjacent to 16 Carnkenny Road, Ardstraw.
It was agreed that a site meeting be held in connection with the above application and that a representative from Roads Service be in attendance.
Addendum to Schedule
J/2000/0648/O – Mr. & Mrs. H. Casey, one and a half storey dwelling adjacent to 54 Towncastle Road, Strabane.
Members noted that the above application was now recommended for approval following a site meeting.
The Planning Executive report was adopted on the proposal of Councillor O’Kane seconded by Councillor Kerrigan subject to the foregoing.
CHIEF BUILDING CONTROL OFFICER’S REPORT
Mr. Cathers, Senior Building Control Officer attended the Meeting and presented the Building Control Report, a copy of which had been previously circulated to each Member.
Arising out of the report, the following matters were discussed:-
Approvals
Members noted that 43 approvals had been issued during the month.
This section of the report was adopted on the proposal of Councillor McBride seconded by Councillor Murtagh.
Councillors agreed on the proposal of Councillor McBride seconded by Councillor Murtagh that any Members of the Press and Public present should leave the Meeting at this stage.
Refusals
BR/2001/041 – W.E.L.B., temporary classroom at Sion Mills P.S.
Mr. Cathers stated that amended drawings had been received in respect of the above and withdrew the recommendation of refusal.
BR/2001/057 – McColgans Quality Foods, food processing factory at Dublin Road Industrial Estate, Strabane.
Mr. Cathers informed Members that a request had been received for an extension of time and it was agreed that 14 days be granted.
BR/2001/061 – Ardstraw Community Playgroup, mobile classroom at Ardstraw PS.
A request for an extension of time had been received in respect of the above application and it was agreed that 14 days be granted.
BR/2001/070 – Seamus Collins, extension to dwelling at 36 Tullycar Road, Castlederg.
The recommendation of refusal in respect of the above was withdrawn as Mr. Cathers informed Members that the additional information requested had been received.
BR/2001/071 – W.E.L.B., temporary office accommodation at Strabane Transport Centre, Derry Road, Strabane.
It was agreed that an extension of time of 14 days be granted in respect of the above application.
BR/2001/084 – Martin McFadden, new dwelling and garage at Ligford Road, Strabane.
Mr. Cathers informed Members that no communication had been received in connection with the above. It was agreed that Mr. Cathers would furnish Councillor McBride with a contact address for Mr. McFadden. He said he would make contact with the Applicant and it was agreed that an extra 14 days be granted.
BR/2001/086 – Eugene O’Donnell, new dwelling at Ballymongan Road, Castlederg.
Mr. Cathers reported that a request for additional time had been requested in respect of the above and it was agreed that 14 days be granted.
BR/2001/090 – Stoneypath Developments, 29 No. dwellings and flats at Park Road, Strabane.
Mr. Cathers stated that a request for additional time had been received in connection with the above and the Members agreed to grant 14 days.
BR/2001/091 – Eugene McMenamin, erection of store at 15 Laught Road, Castlederg.
Mr. Cathers stated that the additional information requested in connection with the above had been received and withdrew the recommendation of refusal.
BR/2001/103 – Dermot McCullagh, 4 No. dwellings at Hazelwood, Strabane.
BR/2001/116 – John Browne, erection of dwelling at Park Road, Strabane.
Members agreed to grant an additional 14 days in respect of the above applications to allow time for the information necessary to be submitted..
Property and Estates
Lands at Camus Park, Strabane
Mr. Cathers reported that the Northern Ireland Housing Executive are proposing to carry out improvements to properties at Camus Park, Strabane and will require the use of a small area of land in Council ownership for approximately 9 months for decanting purposes.
The Members agreed on the proposal of Councillor McBride seconded by Councillor Barr to grant the use of the area of land to the Executive subject to legal requirements being completed.
Play Areas at Listymore Park, Erganagh and Millbrook Gardens, Castlederg
Mr. Cathers informed Members that a request had been received from the CTO requesting the lease of land from the NIHE at Millbrook Gardens and Listymore Park, Castlederg for the provision of children’s play area. The Executive had granted permission for the areas in question to be leased for a term of 10,000 years with a premium of £5 and an annual rent of five pence subject to the lands being solely used for the purposes outlined.
Members agreed on the proposal of Councillor O’Kane seconded by Councillor Kerrigan to proceed with the Lease of the lands.
Councillor McHugh referred to the maps furnished and said it was impossible to determine the sites from the maps and asked that in future when maps were being sent out that they be colour coded.
The Chief Building Control Officer’s Report was adopted on the proposal of Councillor Hussey seconded by Councillor Murtagh subject to the foregoing.
REPRESENTATIVES OF B9 ENERGY SERVICES – WIND ENERGY PROPOSAL FOR LOUGH HILL, DRUMMAHON, CO. TYRONE.
The Chairman welcomed Lucy Ford Hutchinson and Denise Campbell from B9 Energy Services to the Meeting to make a presentation on the proposal for Wind Energy at Lough Hill, Drummahon.
Ms. Hutchinson thanked the Council for the opportunity to make the presentation and circulated a copy of her presentation to each Member. She said that B9 Energy Services and Renewable Energy Systems Ltd. are jointly proposing to develop a wind farm on Lough Hill of 9.1MW, comprising up to 7 wind turbines and associated transformers, a permanent anemometer mast, access tracks and gates, a site control room and substantion, electrical cabling, site sinage, a temporary site compound and all ancillary works. If built, the wind farm could generate enough renewable and pollution-free electricity to meet the domestic electricity requirements of up to 8,500 households whilst saving approximately 31,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
The site at Lough Hill was identified as a result of a comprehensive site selection process which considered potential projects across Northern Ireland against a range of criteria and it was felt that this site would be able to harness an excellent wind energy potential with relatively low associated environmental impact.
The presentation set out the time schedule relating to the application from 1994 to the present date when a planning application was submitted. Ms. Hutchinson said that the delay between site selection in 1994/96 and the commencement of the environmental assessment in October, 2000 was due primarily to uncertainties over government policy and work on other sites.
Public consultation in connection with the application and house visits have been delayed due to the foot and mouth outbreak but will proceed as soon as is possible.
Mr. Emery welcomed the representatives to the Meeting and thanked them for the presentation. He said that the MP for the area was stated as Mr. Ross where in fact it should be Mr. William Thompson. This was noted by the representatives.
In reply to Councillor Emery, Ms. Hutchinson stated that the paths to provide and service the turbines would be from the Omagh side of the side. It was also pointed out that Lough Hill was not a designated area of outstanding natural beauty.
In response to Councillor Murtagh, Ms. Hutchinson answered queries relating to the number, capacity and height of the turbines. With regard to the capital cost of the project, Ms. Hutchinson said she did not have that information but would forward same. Ms. Hutchinson also responded to Councillor Murtagh stating that the total focus of the Company to date has been wind energy and nothing had been done with regard to the harnessing of tidal waters. Councillor Murtagh also commented that there were 6MLA’s covering the area.
Councillor Hussey said he was one of a few people who found wind turbines attractive. He said that one of the problems with wind energy was the cost differential between fossil energy and wind. In reply Ms. Hutchinson said that wind energy had become more competitive with coal but not with gas and the Northern Ireland Electricity had the green scheme still at a premium.
Councillor Kerrigan welcomed the presentation and said that it was good to see a joint project between Strabane and Omagh. He referred to the standard of the roads in the area of the project and in response it was stated that the DoE Roads Service was consulted at an early stage and advice was taken from them and other Engineers. The roads would be brought up to the required standard to facilitate the construction and maintenance of the site. Ms. Hutchinson said that a copy of the Environmental Statement would be made available to Council as soon as it was validated.
The Chairman thanked Ms. Hutchinson and Ms. Campbell for having made the presentation and said he was looking forward to the additional information arriving.
CHIEF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH OFFICER’S REPORT
Mr. Cosgrove, Chief Environmental Health Officer attended the Meeting and presented his report, a copy of which had been previously circulated to each Member.
Arising out of the report the following matters were discussed:-
Group Costs
The CEHO referred to the section of his report regarding the above and said that the Group discussions regarding the costings for the Group Committee had recommended that the method of pahment in future should be by “Penny Product”. This method would result in an increase of 0.6 per cent for Strabane Council and at current prices this would work out at less than £2,000.
Councillor Bresland said that he had attended the meetings and of the options put forward the option recommended by the CEHO was the best for Strabane.
Foot and Mouth Disease
The CEHO reported that due to foot and mouth, his department has received and dealt with fifty-eight septic tank complaints the majority of which were referrals from the DoE Water Service. The CEHO said that because of the very large number of calls being received from householders, an officer from his department will make a professional judgement based on the information supplied and in situations where it is felt that a public health nuisance exists, the matter is then referred to the Water Service. Only a very small number of complaints received are not referred to Water Service.
EEC Plants – Foot and Mouth Implications
The CEHO said that the foot and mouth crisis has brought an increased workload to his department in relation to the certification of milk and meat products for intra-community trade. Such products can only be exported out of Northern Ireland if an Environmental Health Officer certifies that the particular product has been subjected to heat treatment which kills the foot and mouth virus. Such certification will continue until such times as foot and mouth restrictions are lifted. This work includes an element of week-end work.
Councillor Hussey asked if there was a cost involved in this work and in response the CEHO said that officers have been getting TOIL which had a cost in officer time. The CEHO said that this work was normally carried out by the Vets but they have been taken away to deal with the foot and mouth crisis and the Environmental Health staff are filling in.
Councillor Barr asked if a payment was made to the Vets for this work and if so the Council should now be paid for the service.
Councillor Hussey said that if there was a charge the Department should have to pay and it should not be the businesses that are penalised.
Investing for Health
The CEHO said that the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety had issued a consultation paper on Investing for Health. He circulated a paper which had been produced by the Northern Ireland Environmental Health and Health Promotion working group and recommended that the Council support the paper as it’s submission to the Department.
This was agreed to by the Members.
Public Appointments to the Health Board and Trusts
The CEHO referred to the above item and said Mr. Gormley of the Western Health & Social Services Board was anxious to attract interest from the Strabane Area as at present only applications from the Derry City Council area had been received.
The Chief Environmental Health Officer’s Report was adopted on the proposal of Councillor O’Kane seconded by Councillor McBride subject to the foregoing. Environmental Health Conference
The CEHO referred to the above conference to be held later in the year and said that if registration was made before the 29th June a significant saving could be made on the registration fee.
It was agreed that this matter should be brought to the next meeting of the Environment Committee in June when the new Council would be formed. This would still enable registration to take place before the 29th June.
Web Site
The CEHO circulated to Members article from the Belfast Telegraph relating to Strabane’s success in the Belfast Telegraph/BT Northern Ireland e-business of the month award. He said that the Web Site was now entered for a further award and thanked all the staff who had worked so hard on the site particularly the IT Officer.
Councillors McBride, Murtagh and McHugh congratulated and complimented the IT Officer and all the staff involved in the Web Site.
CHIEF TECHNICAL OFFICER’S REPORT
Mr. Scott, Chief Technical Officer attended the Meeting and presented his report, a copy of which had been previously circulated to each Member.
Arising out of the Report the following was discussed:-
Public Conveniences, Donemana
The CTO referred to previous discussions relating to the above and said that the residents adjoining the site at Lisnaragh Road were totally opposed to the development of public toilet facilities and he placed before Members the following 3 alternatives:-
(a) Endeavour to identify an alternative site (b) Upgrade the existing toilets to include 2 No. unisex units and 1 No. disabled unit (c) Sell off the existing facility as there is interest in the site.
Councillor Bresland said that he had been out in Donemana and had tried to find an alternative site but without success. He proposed that the Committee adopt alternative (b) to upgrade the existing toilets. This was seconded by Councillor Donnell who said that Donemana must not be left without toilets.
Councillor McBride asked if it had been explained to the people that the toilets were to be incorporated as part of a building and not just as public toilets. The CTO said he had outlined this in the brief to the Architects that there was not to be an area for people to congregate.
Councillor Emery said that the only alternative was to upgrade the existing toilets and asked if the upgrade would be the same as Castlederg as they were fairly free from vandalism. The CTO confirmed that the toilets would be similar to Castlederg when upgraded.
The proposal to adopt alternative (b) was put to the Members and carried unanimously.
Outdoor Sports Pitches
Members noted the information in the CTO report regarding the above which he said was included for information.
Sion Mills Public Toilets
Members noted that the public toilets in Sion Mills had been recently repainted both internally and externally and a few minor repairs to fittings have been undertaken.
Newtownstewart By-Pass
The CTO referred to the above and said that there had been a lot of publicity lately highlighting the fact that the above scheme is to proceed and that funding had been secured.
Councillor Barr asked that a letter be sent to the Minister regarding a start date for the Strabane Scheme.
Councillor Hussey said that Strabane had been approved but he was not sure of the start date.
Councillor O’Kane said he had been informed by Mr. Sam Webb that the Strabane By-Pass would commence in September of this year.
Waste Management Plan
The CTO referred to the above and said that following representations to the Environment Minister regarding an extension of time for submission of the Plan, the Minister was still adamant that the date of the 30th June should be met.
The CTO said that discussions were ongoing with Mr. Stephen Aston, Head of Waste Management & Contaminated Land and he agreed to keep Members informed of developments.
Re/Development of Play Areas
The CTO reported that the contracts for the above have overrun their proposed completion dates but are progressing and pressure is being maintained to ensure completion within the next month.
With regard to the opening of the play areas, the CTO proposed that the Mitchell Park Play Area and launch of Play Development Sites be held on Wednesday, 30th May at 12.00 noon to include buffet lunch at Castlederg Visitors’ Centre. This was agreed by Members.
The CTO said that the opening of the remainder of the site being developed in partnership with Community Groups would be arranged by the Community Groups and a grant of £75 towards the launch be made by the Council. This was also agreed.
The CTO said that it would not be possible to have an opening in respect of the other sites until the end of June/beginning of July.
In reply to the Chairman the CTO said that £105,000 funding had been drawn down by the Council from the District Partnership and £100,000 had been received from the Castlederg Area Based Strategy. Community Groups had contributed from £4,000 to £8,000 per group. In some other schemes there had been no input from Community Groups other than small amounts for environmental work.
In reply to Councillor Donnell, the CTO said that the second phase of the Artigarvan scheme had not yet commenced.
Councillor Hussey said that it should be made clear to everyone where the funding from the schemes had come and in response the CTO said that a Press Release would be issued explaining all the facts.
Development of Pitches at Spamount
The CTO said he had received details of estimated costs for the provision of a ball catch at the above site in the sum of £5,000.
The CTO said that no money had been assigned for this in the budgets and it was agreed that other avenues for funding be investigated and at the same time that the CTO have further discussions with the Group re design and quality of the ball catch.
The Chief Technical Officer’s Report was adopted on the proposal of Councillor Murtagh seconded by Councillor Hussey subject to the foregoing.
Picnic Area at Ballyheather Road
Councillor Donnell asked the present position regarding the provision of a picnic site as part of the new road works at Ballyheather Road near Leckpatrick Old Cemetery and in response the CTO said that he had been endeavouring to make contact with the Roads Service Officials but had been unsuccessful. He said he would continue to follow up the matter and report back to a future meeting.
Ardstraw Cemetery
In reply to Councillor Hussey, the CTO said that the matter raised regarding the above was being dealt with.
TECHNICAL SERVICES LICENSING OFFICER’S REPORT
Mr. Turner, Technical Services Licensing Officer attended the Meeting and presented his report, a copy of which had been previously circulated to each Member.
Arising out of the report the following matters were discussed:-
The Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (NI) Order 1985 Application for Provisional Grant of Amusement Permit – Mr. Michael Heaney re premises at No. 69A Main Street, Strabane
The TSLO referred to the presentation made to the Committee by the above in respect of an Application for Provisional Grant of Amusement Permit for premises at No. 69A Main Street, Strabane.
Councillor O’Kane said that he had been informed within the last week that the Applicant had leased the premises at Main Street to another operator.
Councillor Bell said that Mr. Heaney had employed a new manager but was still in control of the premises.
In reply to Councillor Turner, the TSLO said that if the premises had been leased then a new application would have to be made.
Councillor Barr proposed that in view of what Councillor O’Kane had said that the decision be deferred to allow the TSLO time to ascertain the exact position. This was seconded by Councillor O’Kane and agreed.
Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) (NI) Order 1985 Licensing of Places of Entrtainment – Door Registration Scheme
The TSLO advised Members of the proposed registration scheme and Councillor Hussey declared an interest in this item being the proprietor of a Licensed Place of Entertainment. Councillor Hussey said that as a Member of the Licensed Trade he would whole heartedly support the registration scheme and felt that a course should be held in Strabane. He said he felt that through the WELB some of the Colleges may have been interested in running night classes covering the course content which may have reduced the cost.
Councillor McHugh said he welcomed the scheme but felt that the RUC involvement may leave some people with a difficulty. He said that it was time that “Bouncers” had some training on dealing with people and felt that Vintners should take some responsibility for the young people leaving their premises.
Councillor McBride said he was delighted to see some of the modules in the scheme and felt that the quicker it became compulsory the better. He said he hoped it would move from a voluntary to a mandatory scheme.
The TSLO said that the 2 Centres in Londonderry and Omagh would cover Fermanagh, Limavady, Derry, Omagh and Strabane but it may be possible to use other Centres once the course was up and running. With regard to the fee of £95, the TSLO said that most of this would have to be paid towards the first aid element. The TSLO said that the course would take approximately 10 hours over 4 nights with an examination at the end and would be fully accredited with a recognised certificate awarded to successful candidates.
Councillor Barr asked if there was any built in mechanism to remove registration if complaints were received regarding individuals. The TSLO said that a scheme operating in Coleraine required Councillors to sit on a disciplinary and appeals panel but it had been felt that such a scheme was too onerous although this matter could be discussed and debated after a trial period.
In reply to Councillor O’Kane, it was stated that if an Employer made contact with the TSLO they could be advised if the a person was on the accredited list.
Councillor Hussey felt that there should be 2 grades – a basic grade and then a second grade. The TSLO said that these issues could be discussed as the course progressed.
The Members unanimously agreed to support the above scheme which at this stage shall involve relatively minor input from the Council.
Mobile Chip Van
Councillor Barr referred to a previous Meeting of the Committee and said it was his understanding that the owner of a chip van was to come before Council to discuss operating hours.
The TSLO said it was his understanding from that meeting that he was to liase with the Trader and the Complainant and this he had done. He said that the License had been issued.
Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) (NI) Order 1985 Licensing of Places of Entertainment
Members agreed to the issuing of Entertainments Licences as outlined in the TSLO report.
Bye-Laws Prohibiting Consumption of Intoxicating Liquor in Designated Places
Members noted details of prosecutions and Official Caution issued in respect of the above.
Dogs (NI) Order 1983
Members noted that during the month of April, 8 dogs had been collected and taken to the kennels. Suitable homes were found of 2, 3 were reclaimed and the remainder were humanely destroyed.
The Technical Services Licensing Officer’s Report was adopted on the proposal of Councillor Hussey seconded by Councillor McBride subject to the foregoing.
Additional Items
The TSLO said he had two additional items which he wished to bring before Members.
Naming of Housing Development
The Chairman said that the request from the North & West Housing Ltd. regarding the naming of a housing development should be brought to the next meeting of the Committee.
Application from Leisure & Amusement Services – Premises At 83/85 Lower Main Street, Strabane
The TSLO advised Members that Mr. Colm O’Donnell wished to terminate his application for Amusement Permit in respect of the above premises. This was noted by the Members.
CLERK & CHIEF EXECUTIVE POST
Councillor Barr referred to the letter received regarding the application forms for the above position and said he found it offensive that a Councillor should have to inspect the forms in a controlled situation. He proposed that the forms be distributed to Members as per the original statement made.
The Chairman said that this was the last Meeting of the Committee prior to the Election. He said that the next Meeting would be the 26th June and would also be the AGM of the Committee. He thanked all Members for their co-operation during the year.
The Meeting ended at 9.55 p.m.
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