Estate groups told to unite
THE first sod is about to be turned in Limerick Regeneration’s building programme.
Confirming that within the next few weeks, construction work will get underway in Cliona Park, Moyross, of a total of 13 units of two and three bedroom houses and between 19 and 20 apartments, regeneration executive,
Brendan Hayden, told the Limerick Post that, as outlined in their original masterplan, the first residents to be rehoused will be the senior citizens on each of the five housing estates involved in regeneration. “We will follow the Moyross development shortly with the construction of new housing in Southill and St Mary’s Park, each build costing in the region of €4million,” he said.
Earlier this week, it was also confirmed that a grant of €35million has been allocated to Limerick Regeneration for 2011.
Referring to the problems that arise when estate management groups differ on various issues in relation to regeneration, Mr Hayden said that while the Kincora/Carew Park estate is a recognised group, there are others forming.
“This gives rise to groups pulling against each other in a power struggle, which is a pity as they would be stronger if they united.
‘The group set up is recognised by the council and regeneration and people can join, but they should all unite and that way we can move on”.
Referring in City Hall to “allegations made by Mr Hayden regarding community conflict, Cllr Pat Kennedy said: “Nobody should be allowed to interfere with the regeneration process, which must proceed in a humanitarian way.
“With regard to Mr Hayden’s comment that certain people are standing in the way of progress, I suggest this be investigated by the director of services, Kieran Lehane, and that his findings are presented to the city manager, Tom Mackey – it should be investigated as we are the statutory body and we must demonstrate the democratic mandate – the allegations made by Mr Hayden must be inspected and the findings brought back to us”.
