THE first phase of a controversial affordable housing scheme in Shannon is awaiting its new occupants.
Work on the Glaise na Rinne houses, adjacent to the Cluain Airne estate, began in August 2009 amid objections from locals to the loss of rights-of-way and a green field, a popular children’s play area.
The proximity of the site to the Shannon Estuary also led to questions regarding its suitability for building and flood plain concerns arose.
The site was abandoned mid way through the build in late 2010, as the builder had failed to comply with terms of the contract worth €3 million and it sat idle for several months.
A new contractor was secured in the summer of 2011 and the work was completed last February.
Initially 48 houses were to be built in the scheme but at present, just 22 have been completed.
Sixteen are affordable houses while the remaining six are step-down residences.
Cllr Sean McLoughlin told the Limerick Post that councillors requested that the remaining land be dezoned to prevent the building of further houses at the site.
“We tried to dezone it but as it was a part 8 Planning Application, the land can still be built on.
“The planning permission will not end so further houses could be built in the future, though a majority or residents and councillors are against this”.
A total of 10 applications for the affordable houses were made to Clare County Council; six of these were successful, three are being considered and one was rejected.
Five applications were made for step-down housing.
Prospective applicants must be on the council housing list to be considered.
