Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 24 Mar 1992

Vol. 417 No. 5

Written Answers. - Departmental Property.

Austin Currie

Question:

123 Mr. Currie asked the Minister for Finance whether he will ensure that a plot of land situated at Brompton, Castleknock, Dublin 15 (details supplied) which is the property of the Board of Works and is a focal point for vandalism and litter will be cleaned up and that measures will be taken to prevent a recurrence; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. N. Treacy)

The plot of land in question forms part of the north bank of the Royal Canal between Granard Bridge and Kirpatrick Bridge in Castleknock, County Dublin. For the most part, the canal bank along this stretch is relatively wide and offers considerable scope for development as a canalside amenity area. The area adjoining the canal bank is comprised of three housing estates namely, Delwood, Brompton and Roselawn. The Office of Public Works commissioned a special report from consultants to determine how the potential of the bank could be realised and the area integrated with adjoining properties.

During the course of the restoration works in this section of the canal in June 1990, the intention was to carry out limited bank clearance works to provide access along the bank. However, some residents from the Roselawn estate objected and the works were deferred pending discussions. To date, despite patient and protracted discussions, the residents have not yet withdrawn their objections to the development of the bank.

In view of the interests of all the residents of the locality and the considerable costs incurred by the office of Public Works in having a detailed plan drawn up for the development of the bank as an amenity area I have now requested the Commissioners of Public Works to ensure that they finalise their discussions with Roselawn residents and proceed with their plans for the implementation of the consultants recommendations as soon as possible.