Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 14 Dec 2000

Vol. 528 No. 3

Written Answers. - Site Development.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

118 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the discussions which have taken place with other bodies and agencies in respect of the development of the site at Newtown House, Leixlip, County Kildare with particular reference to the provision of library and leisure/recreational facilities and a Garda station; the degree to which agreement has now been reached in regard to the future needs of each of the sectors involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30309/00]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Cullen)

As I indicated in response to previous questions, Kildare County Council agreed to a site available at Newtown House, Leixlip, for the construction of a new Garda station. It was envisaged that the construction of the station would be carried out as a joint development to include a new library, civil offices and a community centre.

As a result of An Bord Pleanála's decision to uphold the appeal against the demolition of Newtown House, a revised site was offered by Kildare County Council and was considered unsuitable for the construction of a new Garda station.

The provision of library and leisure-recreational facilities is a matter proper to Kildare County Council.