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Dated 7th March 2019

Chief Executive’s

Monthly Management Report

28th

February 2019

Prepared under Section 136 (2) of the Local Government Act, 2001, as inserted by Section 51 of the Local Government (Reform) Act, 2014

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CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S MANAGEMENT REPORT – 31st January 2019

Contents

Finance & Water Services 3

Financial Reports Water Services 5

Economic, Enterprise, Planning & Infrastructure 7

Economic Development Local Enterprise Office European Relations Planning

Development Management Planning Enforcement Forward Planning

Infrastructure 14

Operations & Waste Management 18

Operations Waste Management Air, Water and Noise Pollution Environment Veterinary Services

Corporate and Fire & Emergency Services 24

Corporate Services Sustainable Energy Fire & Emergency Services Civil Defence

Housing, Communities, Quality of Life 28

Housing Communities Quality of Life

Libraries Archives Museum Heritage Arts

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FINANCE & WATER SERVICES

Contents

Financial Reports

Expenditure to 28th February 2019

Section

ACTUAL EXPENDITURE TO

28/2/19

BUDGET EXPENDITURE

2019

% SPENT TO 28/2/19

Housing 3,420,703 25,536,532 13%

Road Transportation & Safety 4,374,603 20,105,291 22%

Water Services 1,418,955 7,101,147 20%

Development Management 1,800,141 16,187,478 11%

Environmental Services 2,763,676 16,721,687 17%

Recreation and Amenity 1,492,199 8,500,884 18%

Agriculture, Education, Health & Welfare 172,170 1,341,711 13%

Miscellaneous 1,044,132 10,620,209 10%

16,486,579 106,114,939 16%

Income to 28th February 2019

Section

ACTUAL INCOME TO 28/2/19

BUDGET INCOME 2019

% INVOICED TO 28/2/19

Housing 2,836,997 27,451,267 10%

Road Transportation & Safety 516,182 10,996,282 5%

Water Services 1,299,264 6,994,342 19%

Development Management 1,163,868 9,534,304 12%

Environmental Services 236,532 1,863,240 13%

Recreation and Amenity 214,986 859,691 25%

Agriculture, Education, Health & Welfare 40,021 430,643 9%

Miscellaneous 348,891 5,529,938 6%

Rates 32,800,980 32,589,034 100%

General Purpose Grant (LGF) 1,644,366 9,866,198 17%

41,102,087 106,114,939 39%

The above is the current position as at the 28th February 2019. Work is continuing on the preparation of the Annual Financial Statements and the above figures will change when yearend accruals and claims are posted. Once

completed the Annual Financial Statements will be presented to council. The allocation of the Central Management Charge is estimated in the above figures as the allocation is not completed till mid-month.

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Collection rates as at 28th February 2019 are as follows:

Debtors as at 28th February 2019

Opening Balance Invoices Receipts Write Offs

Closing Balance

Government Debtors 5,689,304 3,520,982 (4,565,651) 0 4,644,635

Other Local Authorities 105,124 52,961 (70,755) 0 87,330

Rates 9,038,425 32,800,980 (4,563,594) (62,143) 37,213,668

Rents 3,806,090 1,887,637 (1,958,113) 2,400 3,738,014

Loans 362,358 104,468 (202,151) 0 264,675

Development Levies 13,516,399 813,065 (621,691) 0 13,707,772

Fire Charges 1,668,441 71,252 (32,459) (67) 1,707,167

Miscellaneous 2,466,833 846,943 (1,120,157) (207) 2,193,410

TOTAL DEBTORS 36,652,974 40,098,288 (13,134,571) (60,019) 63,556,671

Above is the debtor balances as at the 28th February 2019. The above figures will change when year end accruals and claims are posted. The Miscellaneous debtor figure includes the Irish Water SLA recoupments, Corporate, Community & Enterprise, LEO, Planning, Enforcement, Environment, Sports, Vets, Arts, Roads, Library, Museum and Finance miscellaneous billings.

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Contents

WATER SERVICES

Water Conservation Capital Programmes

Water Major Infrastructure Projects

Waste Water Infrastructure Projects

Minor Projects

Water Networks Rehabilitation Programme

Lead Replacement

First Fix

Metering

Network Maintenance

Water Scouring Programme

Major Outages

Rural Water Programme

Water Services Water Conservation The Water Network team continued water conservation activity through the County locating leaks in the Network. Under Find & Fix, five areas have been identified in Drogheda for Irish Water Contractor to investigate and repair, (Dublin Rd, Newfoundwell Rd, Lourdes, Moneymore and Wheaten Hall). CAPITAL PROGRAMMES Irish Water refer to the different phases of a capital project as Gates 1, 2, 3 or 4. Gate 1 - Concept Design, Gate 2 - Detailed design, contract documents,

planning and procurement, Gate 3 - Construction stage, Gate 4 - Snagging, sign off. Water Major Infrastructure Projects Dundalk Water Main Rehabilitation This was certified for completion in June 2018. The Final Account Report is expected in the first Quarter of 2019. The closure process to initiate to Gate 4 will then commence. Drogheda Water Main Rehabilitation Works recommenced in January 2019 and snags and reinstatement are to be addressed in Q1 &

Q2 2019. The programme is expected to take approx. 16 weeks. Staleen Drogheda Water Supply Scheme WTP Gate 3 Construction Stage ongoing, with civil works to be completed, by Design Build Operator (DBO). Cavanhill Dundalk Water Supply Scheme WTP Gate 3 Construction Stage ongoing, with Civil Works to be completed, by DBO. Waste Water Major Infrastructure Projects Ardee Sewage Scheme Upgrade WWTP This is at Gate 3 stage with completion expected July 2019. All network work is complete and Pumping station work is ongoing. Local Network Reinforcing At Gate 2 stage with revision to design outstanding from consultant. An updated programme will be issued from Irish Water. Drainage Area Plan Currently underway and the hydraulic model is due to be complete in 2019. Irish Water to examine the options for the Coe’s Road Pumping Station.

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Omeath Sewage Scheme WWTP At Gate 2 stage, the CPO process is complete and a preplanning meeting was held with Louth County Council’s planning section in January 2019. Planning application is expected to be lodged by the end of February 2019. Capital Programmes – Minor Projects Ardee Rising Main – John St The works are substantially complete with final connection and reinstatement ongoing. Bay Estate This is currently at Gate 3 and has an expected completion date end of March 2019. Tinure WWTP This is complete. Irish Water are currently considering the option for an extra storage tank. WATER NETWORKS Rehabilitation Programme Five schemes are now substantially complete with snagging ongoing (Hill Street Dundalk, Chapel Hill Omeath No 1, Chapel Hill Omeath No 2, Howe's Hill Omeath, Fr. Mc Cooey Park Clogherhead). Another five schemes are to be undertaken in Q1 and Q2 of 2019 (Muirhevnamore Dundalk, Dublin Road Dundalk, Quay Street Dundalk, Dublin Road Ardee and Campbell’s Park Ardee). Two further schemes are proposed for consideration – Baltray Road, Termonfeckin and Harbour Road Clogherhead. Lead replacement Irish Water identified 1,456 lead connections during their metering programme. To date they have replaced 1,800 lead connection county wide, with only a few connections to complete when capital works conclude in Drogheda. First Fix Irish Water contractor is currently undertaking this work. Metering Network Section currently providing ongoing support to contractor for the upgrading of non – domestic meters installed under the Water Rehabilitation Programme.

Network Maintenance Seventy four water repairs were undertaken in January. Sewer maintenance including jetting and investigation works. Water Scouring Programme The Water Scouring Programme commenced on the 20th February 2019 in the Tallanstown area. The next area planned for flushing (weather dependent) is Blackrock. MAJOR OUTAGES Planned outages by DBOs are advised by Irish Water. Unplanned outages arising from bursts are dealt with as they arise and continue to be notified to the members. RURAL WATER PROGRAMME The Department for Housing, Planning and Local Government has issued a call for bids from Local Authorities for funding under a planned three year Multi Annual Rural Water Programme of works on existing or proposed group water schemes. Funding is also available for connection of communities that are currently not serviced by the public water or wastewater network to an adjacent public network. Closing date is the 14th of March 2019.

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ECONOMIC, ENTERPRISE, PLANNING & INFRASTRUCTURE

Contents

Economic Development Local Enterprise Office European Relations

Planning Development Management Planning Enforcement Forward Planning

Infrastructure

Economic Development Louth Economic Forum The next meeting of the Louth Economic Forum is scheduled to be held on Wednesday 3rd April. The Tholsel, Drogheda A total of five tenders were received for the provision of an Interpretive Designer for the design of a new Visitor Experience at The Tholsel, Drogheda. Tourism Applications are invited under Louth County Council’s Festival Grant Initiative and also the Large Festival & Participative Events Programme 2019. Application Forms are available to download from the ‘Latest News’ section on Louth County Council’s website at www.louthcoco.ie. Closing date is 5.00pm on Tuesday 12th March 2019. LMFM with Tara Walker

Boyne Valley Flavours on LMFM’s Late Lunch - Dunany Flour

The first of Celebrity Chef Tara Walker’s year long series of shows was aired on LMFM in February. During each show Tara will promote Boyne Valley Flavours Producers, which is an excellent opportunity for local producers to showcase their products. DIFE Information Morning DIFE held an information morning on the 13th February to promote their fully funded up-skilling courses, targeted at SMEs in Louth & Meath. Their first course, scheduled to begin in March 2019, will cover Pastry Baking & Desserts. National Geographic Features Boyne Valley Region as Food Destination The Boyne Valley Region was featured in the National Geographic Traveller as one of the World’s Best Food Destinations for 2019. Three Louth locations were mentioned; The Glyde Inn in Annagassan, Fishermans Catch in Clogherhead and the Eastern Seaboard in Drogheda. This piece places Louth and the Boyne Valley firmly on the world map as a Foodie Destination to rival anywhere in the world. LEO Louth Local Enterprise Week 2019

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Opening Event, Local Enterprise Week Louth, held at The Mill, Drogheda

Enterprise Week (4th to 8th March) offers Louth businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs with an exciting mix of support and advice, networking opportunities and business information events with the aim of stimulating enterprise and entrepreneurship. In Louth, 12 free events were delivered across the county. The three flagship events included the #MakingItHappen event in the Mill, Drogheda on the 4th March, celebrating International Women’s Day and the closing event in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dundalk on the 8th March. Business Training In February, the following business workshops were delivered to 55 participants:

Creating an Online Business

Using Video to Optimise Your Business –

2 day course at Creative Spark, Dundalk

Branding Your Business - The Mill,

Drogheda

Introduction to VAT for Small Business -

Creative Spark, Dundalk

Illuminate – the Boyne Valley Female

Entrepreneurship Programme

This is a Business Management and

Leadership Programme supported by

LEO Louth and Meath and sponsored by

Coca-Cola International Services and

AIB. It is accredited by Quality &

Qualifications Ireland QQI Level 6 and

delivered by DCU Ryan Academy. The

aim of the programme is to fast track

female led businesses to develop their

business and leadership skills, achieve

scale and create employment. It is being

delivered from February to April at The

Mill, Drogheda.

Start Your Own Business Programmes

(Dundalk, Ardee and Drogheda) which

commenced in January continued to run

during February, with 53 participants

receiving practical support, advice and

guidance on starting their own business.

LEO’s business training programme to June (30 workshops, excluding Enterprise Week’s activities) can be found at: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Louth/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/ Brexit Conference – The future for Border Businesses LEO Louth with Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, InterTradeIreland, and the Chambers of Commerce in Dundalk and Newry have organised a conference on Brexit to be held in the Carrickdale Hotel, Co. Louth on Wednesday 13th March. With just two weeks to the conference there are over 250 people registered for the event. Attendees are from businesses North and South. The event will involve a mix of keynote speeches and panel Q&As. The focus will be on providing a range of practical advice and support for border businesses and the subjects will include Tax; Customs; Transport and Logistics; People issues, including visa issues and access to the labour market and general employment law issues; and advice and support for small business. A full range of Brexit supports to help small business is offered by LEO detailed at: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Louth/Start-or-Grow-your-Business/Brexit-Information-Centre/ The supports LEO provides include assistance assessing exposure to Brexit, and programmes to help businesses improve competitiveness, innovation and develop new markets. Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) 2019 The competition to find Louth’s Best Young Entrepreneur 2019 continues. The closing date

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for entries is Friday 15th March. The winning entrepreneurs to represent the county will go through to the regional final in June. Student Enterprise Programme LEO Louth’s Student Enterprise Programme (2018 - 2019) continued in February involving 17 second-level schools with 1,160 students actively engaging in running a business. The County Final Student Enterprise Awards were held in the Carrickdale Hotel on Tuesday 5th March, part of Enterprise Week. National Enterprise Awards 2019 Three Louth finalists in the National Enterprise Awards Competition were announced on Friday 8th March, as part of Local Enterprise Week. They were in the best start-up, most innovative and best established business categories. The overall winner will represent Louth in the National Final to be held in Dublin in May. Trading Online Vouchers 3 vouchers were approved in February. LEO Louth continues to promote and provide vouchers to local small businesses for financial assistance up to €2,500 alongside training and advice to help businesses trade online. Business Advice Clinics LEO Louth provided 8 Business Advice Clinics in Dundalk (Town Hall) and Drogheda (The Mill Enterprise Hub) during February. Regional Enterprise Plan The North East Regional Enterprise Plan to 2020 was launched by Minister for Business, Enterprise & Innovation, Heather Humphreys TD in Cootehill, Co. Cavan on the 25th February. A copy is available at: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/North-East-Regional-Enterprise-Plan-to-2020.html. LEO/Louth County Council continues to provide the Secretariat to the Regional Plan and its Steering Committee. Regional Skills Forum

The North East Regional Skills Forum met in Drogheda, Co. Louth on the 26th February. Louth County Council is represented on the Forum through the LEO. Details of the North East Forum at: https://www.regionalskills.ie/Regions/NorthEast/. Enterprise Ireland HPSU Showcase Enterprise Ireland held its Annual HPSU (High Potential Start Up) Showcase in Dublin on the 14th February. Included in the Enterprise Ireland companies profiled was former LEO Louth client, Finca Skincare. All-Island Civic Dialogue on Brexit LEO attended the 5th All-Island Civic Dialogue on Brexit at Dublin Castle on the 15th February. LEAN for Micro Programme LEO Louth continues to offer the LEAN Programme to small businesses locally. The programme helps businesses to identify issues and potential improvement areas and provides support to implement these as well as achieve savings and improvements in capability and capacity to deliver. Businesses with an interest in improving competitiveness should contact LEO Louth to discuss how both the LEAN Programme and the LEAN Network can be of assistance. Co-Innovate Programme This Innovation focused Interreg funded programme targeted at border county companies is progressing. 47 Louth companies are engaged with the programme and continue to work with LEO Louth. It is envisaged that during 2019 a number of LEO clients will be able to avail of the Cross Border Innovate Accelerate Programme after exiting this programme. Innovate Accelerate A new innovation and export programme for LEO clients who cannot progress through ‘Co-Innovate’ but who plan to innovate and increase

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their capacity to export is now available to client businesses. The aim is to support up to 7 businesses in 2019 to participate on the programme and help address Brexit concerns, and will include tailored intensive mentoring and export support. Age Friendly Economy (EU Project) This EU Project, of which Louth County Council is a partner, is working towards helping businesses in Co. Louth innovate with new products or services for the older community. The project is progressing with pilot testing a new course and product innovation boot camps scheduled for the end of April. European Relations Memorandum of Understanding The next meeting of the MOU Committee took place on the 20th February 2019. INTERREG VA

Carlingford Lough Greenway

Doran Consultants have been appointed for the next phase of the project and have commenced work.

Victoria Lock to Border

Following consideration, the preferred route is being finalised. A Proposal of Application Notice is currently being submitted with the aim of submitting for Planning in May 2019.

Border to Carlingford

Detailed drawings are being finalised with the aim of submitting a Part 8 Application. Public consultation events took place in February.

In conjunction with SEUPB and research partners, the steering committee have started to examine the projects Sustainable Transport Baseline Data and Performance Measurements.

Detailed progress reports and financial claims continue to be submitted to the SEUPB.

The Project Steering Committee continues to hold monthly meetings.

Peace IV Programme

The procurement process continues for the next five projects in Louth.

Implementation is progressing satisfactorily on the projects commenced in 2018. All projects are monitoring targets and outputs as set out for the themes of the Peace IV Programme. Louth County Council exceeded the 2018 target set for participants within the Children & Young People Theme.

The EU Programmes Manager gave an informative presentation on the Peace IV Programme to the MOU Committee on the 20th February. This was done in conjunction with staff from Newry, Mourne & Down District Council. Details were given of five collaborative projects being implemented jointly by both Councils.

Work is ongoing to develop the three capital projects, funded under the Shared Spaces & Services theme. The procurement process for three Shared Spaces & Services Projects namely The Crossing Field, Drogheda; Muirhevnamor Community Centre Extension and Dundalk War Memorial will commence soon.

Planning

Development Management

The Planning service indicators for Louth County Council for the month of January 2019 are given below in tabular form.

There were 54 planning applications received during the month of January of which 49 were valid. In addition there were 17 responses received during the month to requests for further information. The service indicator figures in relation to planning decisions and decisions on appeals made during the month, broken down by category, and with a total figure for all categories (Column F), are given below:

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(A)

Description

(B)

Housing Developments

(C)

Individual Houses

(D)

Other applications-not requiring

EIA

(E)

Other applications- requiring EIA

(F)

Total for all categories of development

in County Area

(i) Number of applications determined

(ii) No. of decisions determined which required further information

(iii) Percentage of applications refused

(iv) Number of appeals determined

(v) Percentage of decisions overturned on appeal

3

1

0% (0)

1

0% (0)

13

1

7.69% (1)

0

0% (0)

57

24

1.75% (1)

2

50% (1)

0

0

0% (0)

0

0% (0)

73

26

2.74% (2)

3

33.3% (1)

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Planning Enforcement The Planning indicators are given below in relation to Enforcement complaints regarding unauthorised developments received during the month.

Description Enforcement in relation to unauthorised

development

Enforcement in relation to unauthorised

development

January

2019

Year to

Date

January

2018

Year to

Date

Number of Planning Enforcement Complaints Investigated

12 12 9 9

Number of Planning Enforcement cases received which didn’t require follow up

0 0 0 0

Number of cases closed/resolved through negotiation.

14 14 13 13

Number of Warning letters issued 6 6 6 6

Number of Enforcement Notices issued. 1 1 1 1

Number of cases referred for legal proceedings

2 2 0 0

Number of Injunctions 0 0 0 0

Number of Prosecutions 0 0 1 1

Forward Planning

Westgate Vision

1 February 2019 Residential Land Survey Dundalk & Drogheda

Ongoing

2 February 2019 Westgate Phase 2 Implementation

Ongoing

3 February 2019 Preparation of Variation No.1 Louth County Development Plan 2015

- 2021

Ongoing

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INFRASTRUCTURE Roads Projects

Clanbrassil Street / St Nicholas Quarter

John Cradock Ltd appointed. Works commenced on 7th January.

Clanbrassil Street

Narrow Water Bridge CPO Submissions accepted by Dept of Infrastructure, Planning NI for pre-commencement compliance. Culvert works carried out adjacent to A2 Roundabout, Warrenpoint. N53 - Dundalk to Castleblaney Road Phase 4. HBX to Rassan

Public Consultation on constraints study area held on the 26th September 2017. Topographical surveying now completed. Estimated time scale for preferred route section Q1 2019. Consultants being engaged for Environmental Studies. N2 Ardee to Castleblaney Collaborating with Monaghan County Council (as Lead Authority) in progressing Scheme. Consultant now appointed by Monaghan County Council for Environmental Studies and Route Options. Consultants engaged on identifying possible interim measures in County Louth. N52 Ardee Bypass Tender Documents completed and currently being reviewed for main contract. Report prepared for Mullanstown - Coole Group on Cul-de-Sacs. Tenders being assessed for land fencing. Ardee Town Pavement Renewal (North) Site Investigation now complete. Pavement Assessment Report ongoing.

N53 - HD 15 Safety Works: N53, Armagh Border, Tullyallen, N51 N53, Armagh Border - Works completed. Tullyallen - Lands acquired for staggered junction at King Williams Glen. Consultants being engaged for detailed design. Greenway - Omeath to Newry. Joint project with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and East Border Region. We are continuing to work closely with Newry Mourne and Down District Council on delivery of the proposed Cross Border Greenway. Following the official opening of the Newry to Victoria Lock phase in July 2018, efforts are now fully focused on the Victoria Lock to Omeath section as well as the extension from Carlingford Village to the Marina. Doran Consulting have been appointed as the designer for the project and are currently working with the Project Partners and all relevant stake-holders on the design aspects of the scheme, prior to a consultation process being held and follow-up submission of a planning application in early 2019.

Mount Avenue Improvement LIHAF application was successful. Land take map now finalised. Engaging with Department, Developer and landowners. CPO mapping completed. Landowner engagement is ongoing. LIHAF Officer appointed. Access Road at Newtown, Drogheda LIHAF application was successful. Engaging with Department and Developer. Consultant progressing the design and preparing contract documents. Site investigation completed. LIHAF Officer appointed. Park and Share/ Park and Ride Pilot Scheme

Feasibility Report with TII. Support from NTA sought for the park and ride facility. Engagement

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with Landowners ongoing. Consultant being appointed. Port Access Northern Cross Route Land Acquisition ongoing. Fencing completed at R132. Application lodged under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund was not successful, appeal lodged against this decision. Fill material being stockpiled. Speed Limit Review

Revised Speed Limits approved. Signage Schedule for Local & Regional Roads completed. Signage Schedule for National Roads to be completed and forwarded to TII by end of January.

Recreation & Amenity Projects

Obelisk Bridge

Funding application submitted to the Department in September. St Dominick’s Bridge, Drogheda Underwater surveys are required. Funding application submitted to the Department in September. Safety Improvement Works 2018 Works completed. Awaiting 2019 Allocation. Dromiskin Footpaths

Works completed on Commons Road. Design commenced for works on Chapel Road.

Commons Road, Dromiskin

Corporate Projects Redevelopment Fair Street Offices, Drogheda Design team appointed and detailed design work has commenced. Specialist surveys being carried out. Total cost estimate €12m. Revised Part 8 approved by Borough Municipal Meeting in November. Ardee Castle An architectural design team led by Alastair Coey Architects, RIAI Grade 1 Conservation Practice have been appointed to oversee the refurbishment of the project. Initial meetings have taken place onsite with the design team. The next stage is for a small enabling works project to take place to allow for the building to be fully surveyed by various parties including structural and archeological consultants.

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Ardee Castle

South Louth Depot

Scoping works commenced to identify and inform Brief to be issued for procurement of Consultants. Further works required to establish site suitability.

Flooding General

Catchment based Flood Risk Assessment & Management Study (CFRAM) On completion of a national screening exercise in 2011, the OPW identified 300 areas of potential significant flood risk, referred to as Areas for Further Assessment, or AFAs, which are the focus of the CFRAM Programme. There are 8 AFAs, within County Louth as listed below, 6 in the Neagh Bann CFRAM Study Area and 2 in the Eastern CFRAM Study Area. Neagh Bann CFRAM - Annagassan, Ardee, Carlingford Dundalk & Blackrock South, Greenore & Termonfeckin. Eastern CFRAM - Baltray & Drogheda. CFRAM Flood Risk Management Plans were Launched by the Minister on the 3rd May 2018 and have now been issued to LCC to adopt. Funding has been approved for 4 Schemes in Co Louth; Carlingford/Greenore, Dundalk, Drogheda and Ardee. Baltray is also approved and is to be commenced later in the CFRAM implementation programme. OPW developing design briefs.

Dunleer Flood Risk Management Plan Flood Risk Management Plan final Report completed.

Marine Projects

Coastal Erosion Study Study completed and Final Report issued. Further application for OPW funding will be made. Coastal Erosion (Other locations) Funding applications for Salterstown and Seabank Coastal Erosion works submitted to OPW - Awaiting OPW decision. Surface water pipe at Balmers Bog

Works to be assessed for inclusion in the Dundalk Flood Scheme. Annagassan Harbour Consultation has taken place with National Parks and Wildlife Service and the EPA due to the proximity of Annagassan Harbour to two Natura 2000 sites (Dundalk Bat SAC and Dundalk Bay SPA). Due to the nature of the works involved a full EIA may be required. Estimated cost further investigations up to 135,000 if full EIS is required. No funding available. Bellurgan Embankment Works complete

Piers and Harbours

Power Upgrade completed at Annagassan Harbour.

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Schools Programme Projects

Replacement School for St Itas and St Marys

Site acquired. Dept of Education to submit a planning application.

Ardee E.T.N.S.

Land Acquisition from HSE is progressing. Preliminary Design completed. Stage 2B Design ongoing. Part 8 approved on the 5th April. Design Team preparing contract documents. Disability Access Certificate and Fire Safety Certificate received.

Colaiste Chu Chulainn & Park at Marshes Lower, Dundalk

Handover to LMETB took place on the 21st December 2018. Park to be completed for handover in the Spring.

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OPERATIONS & WASTE MANAGEMENT

Contents

Operations Waste Management Air, Water and Noise Pollution

Environment Veterinary Services

Operations reports for February 2019

Municipal District of Dundalk On-going works in Dundalk for February include: Verge and hedge trimming on all roads completed. Winter pruning of shrub bed areas is ongoing and border maintenance. Signage replacement on Mill Road, Tom Bellew Ave, Hill Street Bridge, Muirhevnamor, Point Road, Quay Street and Stapleton Place. Sign Cleaning at various locations. Removing Advertising notices from Road Signage eg. No Brexit and crashed cars bought. River maintenance of grids, Bollard replacement on Traffic Islands. Ongoing maintenance to sewage and gully cleaning. Replacing damaged Acro Drains. Litter Picking ongoing all areas. Blackspot litter clearing at Fr Murray Park under the bridge, Fatima along the river, Creative Spark at By Pass and the Shore Road. Dumping of Household goods including mattresses removed from estates and road verges. Moved planters off Clanbrassil Street for upgrading works. Replacing damaged litter bins in areas around Dundalk. Repairs to damaged pedestrian road barriers following Traffic incidents at Bay Estate, Red Barns Road, Quay Street, Marshes Road.

Cooley area

Pot hole patching within the greater Cooley area also Ravensdale

Putting in poles for the new Speed Limit signs that are going to be introduced on the 1st of May 2019

Stone wall being re- built in Carlingford at St John’s Castle

Litter pick along R173, also R176 to Carlingford village, also Carrickcarnan old Newry road.

Lifting rubbish at local black spots

Blackrock & Faughart Area Works carried out in the past month include the following: Tar patching and pothole repairs were carried out on Wallace’s Road Blackrock, Cocklehill Blackrock, Cavananore, Maghereagh Cross to County Boundary, Carrickalust, Gorteen, Faughart Upper, Whitemills and Little Mills Kilcurry. General Drainage maintenance was also carried out at locations including Plaster Mountpleasant, Little Mills Kilcurry, Donaghmore, Belrobin, and old N53 Barronstown. Street cleaning and emptying of litter bins is ongoing with bins emptied in Blackrock every Friday and Monday. Illegally dumped waste was collected from various locations including Clermont Rd Blackrock, Carnmore, Haggardstown, Faughart, Monascribe, Deerpark and Killin. Long-serving member of the Area staff Patsy McArdle retired on 12th February.

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North Mid-Louth Area Works carried out in the past month include the following: Patching/pothole repairs at various locations including Rosslough, Tullycahan, Castlebellingham, Walterstown, Killanny, Arthurstown to Rathory, The Five Crossroads to Newrath, Kilcroney, Reaghstown to Arthurstown and Readypenny to Darver. Remedial drainage works recently carried out on the R171 at Louth Village by the North Mid-Louth Area Crew to resolve a long-standing surface water problem that was causing a hazard to both motorists and pedestrians.

Basic drainage maintenance was carried out at various locations including Dromiskin. Signage maintenance was carried at Cullenstown. Refuse from public bins was collected weekly. Illegally dumped waste was collected from various locations including Seabank and on the N2. The playgrounds & ring buoys were checked weekly also. Treatment of soft verges post blacktopping at Nicholastown was completed and also at Crowmartin and Lurgangreen. Significant vegetation removal works along the N2 was completed by contractor.

Ardee Municipal District South Louth Operations Area

Road maintenance operations including patching and pothole repairs were carried out at various locations including: - LP-2253 Philipstown, LS-5226 Mt Orel, LS-5234 Towns park, L-5262 Ballapousta, LP-2254 Dromin and LS-6218 Salterstown LP2239 Mountain Road, Dunleer. Drainage maintenance, such as opening of drainage outlets and back-drains is continuing on an ongoing basis at various locations including: - Mountain View RD. Dunleer, LP-2253 Phillipstown, LP-2223 Draghanstown to Martins Cross, LP-2225 Annagassan. The cleaning of gullies continued at various locations including Main Street, Dunleer and Ardee Town and verge cuts along road edges were reopened and new verge cuts opened at various locations. Litter collection took place at various locations within the district including the N33, N2 and R167

Playground inspections, lifebuoy inspections and routine graveyard maintenance are ongoing on a weekly basis throughout the area. Vegetation was also cut back at various crossroads to improve driver sightlines and around traffic signs at various locations. Vegetation removal works along the N2 commenced in late December. Footpath refurbishment works took place at Main St Ardee and Hale St Ardee Road markings to regulate parking and maintain traffic flows are continuing on an ongoing basis. Works are prioritised due to limited resources and carried out when the weather is suitable.

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Refuse from public bins was collected weekly. Illegally dumped waste was collected from various locations including Rathbrist and on the N2.

Borough District of Drogheda Road maintenance operations, such as patching and pothole repairs have been carried out at various locations across the road network including: - Ousters lane, Stameen Dublin Road, Finnegan’s Park, Windmill Road, Boyne Road, North Strand, Donore Road, Back Alleys at Rathmullen Park and Mary Street. The Overlay road resurfacing works included in the 2018 Road Works Programme substantially completed. North road overlay/inlay surfacing works commenced 25th February.

Drainage maintenance is continuing on an ongoing basis at various locations throughout the Town including the Dublin Road at Blackbull, Boyne Hall, Old Slane Road and Laurence’s Gate. Other road maintenance operations such as maintaining and replacing road signage, traffic light maintenance was undertaken at various locations throughout the Town. Bollards were repaired, washed, painted and new reflective paint applied at various locations including the Dublin Road. Traffic Light maintenance continued on an ongoing basis around the Town. Footpath repairs were carried out at various locations around the Town including the North Quay, Trinity Street and Mary Street.

Road markings to regulate parking and maintain traffic flows are continuing on an ongoing basis throughout the Town. Works are prioritised due to limited resources. Traffic Calming road markings are also being carried out throughout the Town. Works continued on a daily basis with the maintenance of the various green verges/areas, flower and shrub areas and parks around the Town. Litter collection, playground and skate-park inspections and lifebuoy inspections are ongoing on a weekly basis.

South Louth District Area (District of Drogheda) Road maintenance operations, such as patching and pothole repairs have been carried at various areas including: R166 at Togher, Tullyallen and Baltray Road from Termonfeckin to Baltray. Other road maintenance operations such as maintaining and replacing road signage were undertaken at various locations including Bollards and Speed sign at R168, Tullyallen and on R132 at Monesterboice. Drainage maintenance is continuing on an ongoing basis throughout the area including opening and re-opening verge cuts along various roads. Repairs to a man hole cover were carried out at The Old Slane Road. Road markings to regulate parking and maintain traffic flows are continuing on an ongoing basis. Works are prioritised due to limited resources and carried out when the weather is suitable. Litter collection, the collection of illegal dumping, playground inspections, lifebuoy inspections (Clogherhead, Termonfeckin and Curley Hole, Slane Road) and general graveyard maintenance are carried out on a weekly basis throughout the area.

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Waste Management and Environment Report Waste Management Waste Enforcement There was one waste complaint in February 2019. There are a number of Waste Management Act related cases going through the District Circuit, Circuit Court (appeals and DPP case) and the High Court at present. Inspections in relation to compliance with Producer Responsibility Initiatives and Waste Authorisations continue to be completed.

Litter Enforcement A total of 80 fines were issued in February. Of these fines, 10 were issued in the Dundalk urban area, 54 in Drogheda urban area and 16 in the remaining county wide area. There was one fine issued for a dog fouling.

Diesel Laundering Waste There was 5 IBC’s of Diesel Sludge recovered in February 2019. The approximate cost of clean-up and disposal of the material is €6,243.75. The 5 IBCs were located at Balreggan, Kilcurry and Captains road, Kilcurry, i.e. 3 on the 20th February 2019 and 2 on the 22nd February 2019 respectively.

Air / Water / Noise Pollution Air Pollution Enforcement Two cases under the Air Pollution Act (Sale Marketing Distribution and burning of specified fuels Regulations 2012) have been referred for legal action. Case one has been heard. This case is being appealed and is due for hearing in the coming months. Case two is due to be heard during March 2019.

Water Pollution Enforcement One case under Section 3 of the Local Government (Water pollution) Act 1977 as amended is scheduled for hearing during March 2019 in relation to a private pumping station in Drogheda. An additional case under section 3 in relation to a private pumping station in Dundalk has been referred to the Council solicitor.

RMCEI (Recommended Criteria for Environmental Inspections) The 2019 Inspection plan for Louth County Council was submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency in February. In addition statistics for inspections and enforcement activities for 2018 were also submitted

Environment Climate Change Adaptation Strategy Louth Co. Councils Climate Change Adaptation Team: A Climate Change Adaptation Team has been convened within the organisation comprising of personnel across each directorate. The Climate Action Regional Offices in Kildare is now setup and providing support to the LA’s within their region through guidance documents and workshops. A workshop was hosted in Louth County Council by the CARO office in January 2019 and a draft plan is currently being prepared by the adaptation team.

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Veterinary Services

Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) As of 28th February 2019, Louth County Council Veterinary Section, under a Service Level Agreement with the FSAI, enforces food safety standards on 16 meat plants under its supervision in the County

Control of Dogs Control of Dogs Act 1986

Dogs impounded February 2019

Total dogs impounded 24

Strays 20

Surrendered by owners

4

No dogs reclaimed by owners

5

No of dogs rehomed direct 3

No of dogs rehomed to welfare groups

11

No of dogs on hand in Pound at 28/02/2019

5

Dog Licences February 2019

No of Licences sold 530

Licence Checks:

House calls 773

Section 16 Notices issued (request to produce licence within 10 days)

202

Fixed Penalty Notices 59

Control of Horses Control of Horses Act 1996 Control of Horses Bye-Laws 2003

Horses impounded February 2019

Horses seized, and reason for seizure:

2 on (which were being kept on council lands without approval)

1 no (as straying on public road near Edentubber)

Horses reclaimed by owner

0

Horses rehomed 0

Horses disposed of

1

No of horses on hand in Pound at 28/2/2019

2

Dog Breeding Establishments Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010

Dog Breeding Establishments February 2019

Total no of registered DBE’s in Louth (as at

28/2/2019) 7

Hunt 2

Boarding Kennels 2

Training Kennels 1

DBE 1

Welfare 1

No of Closure Notices issued

1

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Contents

Corporate Services Sustainable Energy

Fire & Emergency Services Civil Defence

CORPORATE AND FIRE & EMERGENCY SERVICES

CORPORATE & EMERGENCY SERVICES The Corporate Directorate includes the central services required to maintain and administer this Local Authority and includes Corporate, Human Resources and Information Communication Technology. Emergency Services includes all elements of the Fire Service including Major Emergency Management and the provision of Civil Defence Services. Corporate Services Work is ongoing in relation to the production of the supplementary voters register for the Local and European elections in May.

The Dundalk Municipal District annual civic awards ceremony took place on Thursday, 7th March with 14 people or organisations receiving awards. The Ardee civic awards are due to take place on Tuesday, 26th March. The customer services team dealt with 13,296 queries in February, 2019 bringing the total to 27,4791 for the year. There were 11 Freedom of Information requests received in February, a total of 21 for 2019, which is slightly less than the 25 received at the same time last. The tender process for the internal audit service for the Council is almost complete and the contract will be signed shortly.

7730 followers on Twitter

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SUSTAINABLE ENERGY AND PROPERTY Public Sector Energy Efficiency Performance SEAI recently published its Annual Report for 2017 and it confirms that the Council’s energy use is 56.73% of its baseline energy (ie that the Council has reduced its energy consumption by 43.27% compared to the baseline). The Council has now submitted to SEAI the first batch of its energy data for 2018 (ie in accordance with SEAI Monitoring and Reporting deadlines for 2019, details of all electrical meters and gas meters, for energy used by the Council, have been submitted and validated) Better Energy Communities Grant 2018 In 2018, SEAI offered the Council, as grantee, €410,679 of grant aid, for energy efficient works to the value of €1.1million in 2018 for energy works by several beneficiaries. All works for the grant funding offer are complete and claims for the grants offered have been submitted. Some grant monies have been paid to the Council and we are following up

with SEAI to seek outstanding grant payments for beneficiaries. 2019 – Communities Energy Grant Application Louth County Council has partnered with DKIT to act as Project Co-ordinator as in previous years. The Project Co-ordinator has now submitted an application to SEAI for grant funding under its Communities Energy funding Programme. The application seeks funding contributions for various beneficiaries for energy efficient works. The application is seeking grant funding of €375,054 for €841,346 of energy works for 6 beneficiaries involving 13 energy efficiency projects around Co. Louth. Staff Energy Awareness Events The Council’s Energy Section in conjunction with the OPW and Optimising Power @ Work Scheme hosted an energy awareness event in the Fair Street Offices, Drogheda. All staff were invited along to meet with an “energy guru” and find out key ways in which we can all save energy in our bills both and home and at work. Lots of tips for energy saving at home were offered on the day.

Events at the Libraries Supported by the Energy Team The Council’s Energy Section hosted a number of workshops promoting Climate

Action during Engineers Week in the Drogheda, Dundalk and Ardee Libraries from 2nd - 8th of March 2019. These events promoted energy efficiency at home and in school and demonstrated how that reduced

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our impact on Climate Change. A number of local National Schools participated in these interactive workshops. Interreg EV Infrastructure bid for Sustainable Transport - Electric Vehicles Rapid Chargers East Border Region has led and now submitted an application for EU funding for Sustainable Transport - Electric Vehicles Rapid Chargers for the region. The Council has been included in the application as an Associate Partner for the project and could therefore avail of some funding if the application is successful.

GenComm Interreg Energy Storage Project, France, Germany and B The project is now in the final 18 months of the project. In March 2019, Viridian will have a hydrogen powered bus at a launch in Belfast City Hall (scheduled to take place on March 12

th

2019) as part of the GenComm Project. It is envisaged that partners and stakeholders will see a hydrogen-powered ‘double-deck’ bus and learn for themselves the benefits of applying this form of fuel in the transportation industry. The Council will be represented at this event.

Fire Service and Emergency Services

Call volumes for January 2019 were less than the same month last year. There were a total of 48

fire calls and 22 special service (non-fire) calls.

Fire Service Statistics January 2019 Fire Related

Calls

Non Fire Related

Calls

No. Of call outs 01/01/19 - 31/01/19 48 22

% of calls where on scene in <10 mins from time assigned to call

50% 23%

% of calls where on scene between 11 and 20 mins from time assigned to call

1% 1%

% of calls where on scene in >20 mins from time assigned to call

17% 7%

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Station Officers from all crews are

attending the ‘Effective Decision Making

course on the Hydra Training Suite in

Clonmel Training Centre, which will

continue through March. There was also

driver familiarization on new appliances.

The first Fleadh Cheoil 2019 meeting

took place on 27th February. This was a

preparatory meeting and once the list of

venues is finalised Louth Fire Service

will commence inspections.

Louth County Council prosecuted a

large public assembly venue in Dundalk

for having a locked exit and obstructed

exit routes during February. The Court

awarded a large fine and costs.

Major Emergency Management

The Major Emergency Plan and Flood Plan are

being updated. The Major Emergency

Management Officer is involved with An Garda

Siochan in the preparation for two inter-agency

exercises in Quarters 3 and 4. There will be a

table top exercise followed by a field exercise.

Civil Defence

The following Civil Defence activities took place During February 2019:

Weekly training continued – Drones, swiftwater and rescue.

5 volunteers successfully passed their Emergency Fire Responder (EFR) MCQs

2 volunteers successfully recertified as EFRs

1 volunteer completed Search Manager Training

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HOUSING, COMMUNITIES AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Contents

Housing Communities

Quality of Life Libraries Archives Museum Heritage Arts

Pillar 1 Addressing Homelessness

As the Responsible Housing Authority for the North East Region, Louth County Council continues to manage this area and achieve the goals set out in the North East Homelessness Action Plan, 2013-17. The work done within Louth can be summarised as follows:

Presentations of Dec 2018

Ard

ee M

D

Du

nd

alk

MD

Dro

gh

ed

a M

D

To

tal

Number of Person who presented as Homeless

0 18 12 30

Offered advice, support (including fast tracking H.A. for Rent Supplement eligibility)

0 8 10 18

Placed in Temporary Emergency Accommodation

0 10 2 12

Refused Offer of Temporary Emergency Accommodation

0 0 0 0

Not eligible from outside county or non HRC

0 0 1 1

Number of Tenancies being supported by Sustainment Packages

0 3 5 8

The tables below reflect monthly returns submitted to the Department with regard to Homeless numbers in the NORTH EAST REGION This anonymous and aggregated return of all individuals accessing emergency accommodation

is returned to the Department of Housing on a monthly basis. The following information has been returned relating to the timeframe, 24th to 30Th December 2018 last, across the following headings 1.) Gender; 2.) Age group (as per CSO); 3.) Accommodation type; 4.) County. 5.) Breakdown of families with dependent children Table 1: Gender

Gender Total

Male 92

Female 49

Total 141

Table 2: Age Groups

Age Group Total

18-24 19

25-44 78

45-64 35

65+ 9

Total 141

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Table 3: Accommodation Type

Accommodation Type Total

Private Emergency Accommodation (PEA)

63

Supported Temporary Accommodation (STA)

75

Temporary Emergency Accommodation (low

support)(TEA)

3

Unique Total (note, clients may have accessed multiple

accommodation types during the week)

0

Minus people accessing multiple accommodation types during the

week

0

Total unique individuals 141

Table 4: County

County Total

County Louth 124

County Monaghan 5

County Cavan 12

Total 141

Table 5 - Families with dependent children breakdown

No

. o

f

fam

ilie

s

wit

h

dep

en

den

t

ch

ild

ren

No

. o

f

Ind

ivid

ua

l

Ad

ult

s

No

. o

f

De

pe

nd

en

ts

Individuals with dependent children

12 12 30

Couples with dependent children

6 6 couples

(12 adults)

13

Total 18 24 43

Rough Sleeper Count The Rough Sleeper count in Drogheda has been postponed due to the security situation. The count was carried out in Dundalk and one person was identified. The person is known to our services and, as before, refused to avail of any support. Housing Assistance Payment

Work continues on promoting the Housing Assistance Payment model of Social Housing Support. Louth County Council is one of the Phase One Implementation sites and data on this support is now reported in monthly municipal district housing reports. The total number of applications in HAP is 2644.

Pillar 2 Accelerate Social Housing Over the period 2018 to 2021, a target has been set for the provision of 1147 units of which 308 are to be delivered in 2018. These targets will also include matters such as Part V provision, Acquisitions, Mortgage to Rents, Long Term Leases, Repair and Lease and Buy & Renew Acquisitions. The 2018 delivery pipeline progress is detailed at the end of this Section. Castleguard, Ardee, County Louth Tuath have to date delivered 80 homes on this site which nominations have been put forward for by Louth County Council. It is estimated that the remaining 22 homes will be delivered by the end of Quarter 1 2019. Ramparts Green, Rathmullen Road, Drogheda, Co Louth Overall there will be delivery of 105 homes under this scheme by North & East Housing Association and Tuath Housing Association. To date Tuath has delivered 29 homes to the end of December 2018. North & East Housing has delivered 3 homes to date. The remaining units to be delivered by North & East Housing Association in 2019.

Ardee Municipal

District

Dundalk Municipal

District

Drogheda Municipal

District Total

260 1405 979 2644

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Cois Cuain, Upper Point Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth Tuath Housing Association have received CALF approval for 28 homes in this development. There will be 17 x 2-bedroom houses, 10 x 3-bedroom houses and 1 x 4-bedroom house. 13 homes have been delivered in November 2018 and nominations made to Tuath Housing Association by Louth County Council’s Allocations Section. 2018 Delivery (New & Additional at 30th December 2018)

Local Authority Construction 0

Part V Acquisition 4

Local Authority Acquisition 7

Long Term Leases 53

CPO/Buy & Renew 23

Voids 15

Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) 6

Capital Advance Loan Fund (CALF)

170

Mortgage to Rent (MTR) 8

Repair & Lease 0

Acquisition by AHB 2

Total 289

Housing Allocations as at 31st December 2018

Nu

mb

ers

All

oca

ted

All

oca

tio

ns

-

So

cia

l

All

oca

tio

ns

-

Vo

lun

tary

To

tal

All

oca

tio

ns

Re

fus

als

–

So

cia

l

Re

fus

als

–

Vo

lun

tary

Ardee MD

9 86 95 2 1

Dundalk MD

49 47 96 4 3

Drogheda MD

23 78 101 5 4

Transfers Approved within Social Housing at 31st December 2018

Year Ardee Dundalk Drogheda

2018 8 15 4

Housing List (excluding HAP Transfers)

Mo

nth

Ard

ee M

D

Du

nd

alk

MD

Dro

gh

ed

a

MD

To

tal

Nov 18

399 530 820 1749

Dec 18 386 522 838 1746

Transfer List from HAP

Mo

nth

Ard

ee

MD

Du

nd

alk

MD

Dro

gh

ed

a

M

D

To

tal

Nov 18

259 1387 978 2624

Dec 18 260 1405 979 2644

There are a total of 196 applicants on the list for transfer (Non-HAP) within Social Housing including 16 applications from the Approved Housing Bodies.

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Rent Management The number of tenants who pay rent by Household Budget is now 1123.

Current Rents Arrears as at 31st December 2018

Number of

Account

Value

Rents between 4-6 weeks old

157 €58,687

Rents between 7-12 weeks old

184 €110,317

Rents greater than 12 weeks old

1097 €3,915,937

TOTAL 1438 €4,084,941

Pillar 3 Build More Homes The council continue to maintain land banks in the following locations, which can be developed if an appropriate project and funding is forthcoming.

Location Average

Mullavalley, Louth Village 8.82

Kilkerley 11.59

Ballymakenny 16.53

Mount Avenue 7.64

Point Road 5.2

Various Individual Sites 0

Pillar 4 Improve the Rented Sector

No. of properties inspected to date 897

No. of advisory notes issued to landlord

638

No. of improvement notices issued 73

No. of prohibition notices issued 32

No. of Rent Book Notices issued 0

Inspections ( HAP ) 714

Improvement Notices ( HAP) 117

Current prohibitions notices are also listed on the website.

Pillar 5 Utilise Existing Housing Vacant Home Initiatives – Delivery in 2018

Scheme

Ard

ee

MD

Du

nd

alk

MD

Dro

gh

ed

a

MD

To

tal

Repair & Lease 0 8 4 12

Tenanted and Complete

0 0 0 0

CPO Tenanted and Complete

11 6 6 23

The below table summarises the level of maintenance and works activity to existing stock.

Total

No. of Maintenance Requests Received -Dec 18

295

No. of Requests Outstanding- Dec 18 95

Vacant Properties (un-tenanted & un-occupied) - Requiring Major Refurbishing

62

Vacant Properties (un-tenanted & un-occupied) – Requiring Minor Works

38

Vacant Properties (un-tenanted & un-occupied) – Awaiting Allocation

3

Total Vacant Properties (excluding Un-tenanted Properties)

102

Un-tenanted properties (un-tenanted BUT occupied)- properties not vacant

1

% Stock Vacant(Total Vacancies/Total Stock)

2.73%

Grant Assistance to the Elderly and Disabled The following grants are available:

Housing Adaption Grants - Priority 1, which will assist those who need wholetime care in the home

Housing for Older People – Priority 1to works that will preserve the integrity of the dwelling

Mobility Aids Grants - Priority 1, which will assist those who need wholetime, care in the home.

We have not been notified by the Dept of our 2019 allocations for Disabled Persons Grants. Our allocation in 2018 was € 1,498,067; of which €299,613 is to be provided from Louth County Councils own revenue resources.

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Capital Investment Programme Schemes currently in approval process or under construction for the above period 2018 – 2021

(This list is indicative and includes only approved projects and can change as matters are further approved or schemes withdrawn)

Location Authority Social CAS CALF Total Start Completion

Current Position

Cox’s Demesne Phase 2B

LCC 22 0 0 22 Q2 2019 Q4 2020 Stage 2 Approved & Part 8 received.

Saltown North & East

0 7 0 7 Q1 2019 Q4 2019 Stage 3 Approved

Barrack Street

SIMON 0 27 0 27 Q3 2019 Q4 2020 Stage 2 Approved & Part 8 received

5 Slieveroe Crescent Dundalk

Cluid 0 1 0 1 Q1 2019 Q3 2019 PP received awaiting Commencement

Castletowncooley, Riverstown,

Dundalk

Tuath 0 1 0 1 Q3 2019 Q2 2020 Amended Stage 1 submitted.

Bishops Court Dundalk

Tuath 0 0 2 2 Q4 2018 Q4 2019 CALF Approved Contractor to

commence on site Mounthamilton,

Dundalk Cluid 0 0 43 43 Ongoing Q3 2019 On site

Coulter Park, Armagh Road,

Tuath 0 6 0 6 Q2 2019 Q4 2020 Stage 2 Approved

Mount Avenue, Dundalk

LCC 75 0 0 75 Q3 2019 Q3 2021 Stage 1 Approved

Dundoogan, Haggardstown,

Tuath 0 0 112 112 Q2 2018 Q4 2019 On site

Halliday’s Mill Quay Street

Tuath 0 0 68 68 Q2 2018 Q3 2019 On site

Church Street, Dundalk

Tuath 0 0 3 3 Q3 2018 Q2 2019 Acquisition

Cois Cuan, Upper Point

Road

Tuath 0 0 28 28 Q1 2018 Q2 2019 On site

Boice Court, Mell,

2nd Phase

LCC 68 0 0 68 Q2 2019 Q2 2021 Stage 2 Approved

Scarlet Street NEHA 0 0 15 15 Q1 2018 Q3 2019 On Site

Rathmullan Road

NEHA & Tuath

0 0 105 105 Q3 2017 Q2 2020 On site

Grove Court, Hardmans Gardens, Drogheda

Foscadh 0 0 4 4 Not Known

Q3 2018 Acquisition

17 Chestnut Grove,

Termonabbey, Drogheda

Foscadh 0 0 1 1 Q1 2019 Acquisition

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Peters Hill, Drogheda

NEHA 0 4 0 4 Not Known

Not Known Stage 1 Approved

10 Termonview, Baltray Road, Termonfeckin,

Drogheda

NEHA 0 0 1 1 Not Known

Q1 2019 Part V Compliance

Tierney Street, Ardee,

Oaklee 0 7 0 7 Q1 2019 Q2 2020 Stage 3 Approved

Riverwell Close,

Toberona, Dundalk

Respond! 0 1 0 1 Not Known

Not Known Stage 1 Approval

Dunleer National Development

Financial Agency

80 0

0 80 Q1 2019 Q2 2020 Contractor Appointed

Castleguard, Ardee

Tuath 0 0 102 102 April 2017 Q1 2019 Remaining phases on site.

Fr Finn Park Phase 2, Louth

Village

LCC 17 0 0 17 Q2 2019 Q3 2020 Stage 3 Application submitted

Four Winds, Mullacapple,

Collon,

SJOG 0 1 0 1 Unknown Unknown Stage 1 Approved Acquisition

1,2,3 Marsh House, Marsh

Road, Drogheda

Drogheda Homeless Aid Assoc.

0 1 0 1 Q3 2018 Q1 2019 Single Stage Acquisition

9 Villas 2, Drive 1,

Muirhevnamor, Dundalk

Dundalk Simon

Community

0 1 0 1 Q4 2018 Q2 2019 Single Stage Acquisition

The Avenue, Tierney Street,

Ardee

Praxis Care

0 1 0 1 Q3 2018 Q1 2019 Single Stage Acquisition

36 Strandhill, Clogherhead

SJOG 0 1 0 1 Q3 2016 Q2 2019 Single Stage Acquisition

2 Ashall, The Loakers,

Blackrock

Clanmil Ireland

0 1 0 1 Q3 2018 Q1 2019 Single Stage Acquisition

3 Brickfield Gardens, Dundalk

Clanmil Ireland

0 1 0 1 Q1 2019 Q2 2019 Single Stage Acquisition

Dublin Street Dundalk

Respond 0 0 31 0 Unknown Unknown Acquisition

Total - 262 61 488 811 - - -

Definitions AHB = Approved Housing Body CAS = Capital Assistance Scheme which provides 100% funding to AHBs to build or acquire units for disabled or

homeless applicants with a non- repayment mortgage in favour of the Housing Authority to ensure that the Housing Authority has both nomination rights and security over the asset created by public funds. CALF = Capital Advance Loan Fund which provides Department funding for up to 30% funding to AHBs to

provide units for general use on the basis that they enter into a Payment and Availability agreement with the Housing Authority who will provide all the tenant nominations. CPO = Compulsory Purchase Scheme allows the local authority to land or property without the consent of the

owner by means of a compulsory purchase order (CPO). This is being used to acquire vacant or derelict houses which are being returned to use as social housing units. IPS = Incremental Purchase Scheme

Voids = new addition to the report requested by Department of Housing, Planning & Local Government.

COMMUNITIES Louth Local Community Development Committee The Louth LCDC launched a suite of 5 LECP sub-plans on the 20th February in County Hall. The suite of plans includes:

Healthy Ireland for Louth

Louth Age Friendly County

Louth Reducing Harm Supporting Recovery

Louth Realising Our Rural Potential

Louth Disability Inclusion The plans can be accessed on http://apps.louthcoco.ie/HealthyIrelandEbooks/ Housing Workshops Two Age Friendly Housing Workshops were

held on the

1st Feb and 22nd Feb

2019. The

theme of the

workshops was “Universal Design Development in an Ageing Society”. Presentations were made by Neil Murphy, from the Centre of Excellence in Universal Design—UD standards, Dermot O’Hagan JNP Architects—application of UD design in Northern Ireland including costs, Jack Keyes, Senior Consultant UD in neighbourhoods, and Gareth Maguire, BDP Consultants—UD in public realm. The workshops were attended by private developers and their teams and members of the Housing and Planning SPCs. The outcome of the workshops is to stimulate conversation on the application of UD principles within the private sector. The third and final workshop takes place in the Crowne Plaza on 20/3/19.

Acorn The first training day on the Acorn pilot project was held on the 28th February. Thirty older people from all over Louth attended. The aim of the project is to establish the needs of older people using ICT through a simplified customised tablet combined with specific training. mPower eHealth Project Louth Leader Partnership invited Louth County Council and mPower to a “get to know you” exercise in Drogheda on 27th Feb. The purpose of the exercise was to commence work on a mapping exercise of older people’s community groups in Drogheda and those providing services to older people. The aim of the mapping exercise is to establish a network of groups to supply the social prescribing element of the mPower project. Disability Research The contract for the research on the scale and scope of older parents who primarily care for adult children with disabilities was issued on 28th February. Work will commence immediately on the study with the closing date of 30th June. Age Friendly Business The Louth Age Friendly County Programme is working with two businesses to become Age Friendly in Dundalk. It is planned to develop an Age Friendly business model which will work with businesses in the Clanbrassil St Area to coincide with the refurbishment of the street.

Louth Age Friendly Conference 17th April Preparation is underway for the next Age Friendly Conference to be held on the 17th

April. Health Checks Ardee, Dunleer and Collon Health Checks were signed off by the respective communities on the 18th, 19th and 20th February. The ambition of the Ardee Community is to work closely with LCC on the development of the design concept for the regeneration of the town following the successful Rural Regeneration Development (Fund RRDF) of €500,000. Dunleer, based on the information in the Health Check, is planning to develop a subgroup of the DCDC to develop ideas and compile opportunities to include in a successful RRDF application for 2019. Collon is planning to set up a group to mobilise community cohesion in the parish. LCDC Matters A number of items approved at the February LCDC meeting included:

LCDC Annual Report

SICAP 2018 End of Year Review

and Annual Plan 2019

National Community May Bank

Holiday Weekend 2019 - Application

forms for funding support under the

above measure currently being

received from community groups.

The total fund available is € 10,000

Department funding received for two

LGBTQ organisations in Dundalk

and Drogheda.

LEADER projects approved for

Tallanstown, Termonfeckin and

Annagassan, totaling grant aid in the

amount of €223,277.43

All Ireland Community & Council Awards 2019 – On 19th February 2019 Dundalk Sports Centre won the award for the ‘Best Disability access and inclusion Initiative’. The highlight of the evening was the Sports Unit winning the coveted Grand Prix award

which is awarded to the entry receiving the highest score from the judges across all the categories.

After School Activities Programme Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 3:30pm – 4:45pm for all primary school children 6-12years. Monday and Tuesdays is Multi Sports ASA with a variety of fun games and activities in line with our popular summer camp activities. Wednesdays is our Junior Basketball ASA and this is a fun program fully focused on basketball and introducing kids to the game and rules in a fun way appropriate to their age and with the option of progression into the local Basketball Club Dundalk Ravens or a local basketball club in their area. Outdoor Bootcamp A 10 week physical activity intervention aimed at getting sedentary people active for only €40.00. The idea behind this bootcamp is to get people active in a safe and instructed environment. We are currently ¾ through our New Year Bootcamp and the next camp commences on 8th April. Young at 50 Club The young at 50 club meet every Wednesday from 2:30pm – 4:30pm at Dundalk Sports Centre in conjunction with local stakeholder Cuidigh Linn who works with the elderly in the community. They enjoy a range of activities from Holistic Massage, Arts & Crafts, Zumba, Chairobics

and much more at a cost of €2.00. This is a pay as you go social group for people of the local area. Sport Leadership Award The 1st Sport Leader course of the year takes place over the Easter midterm for 13-17 year olds. Limited places are available; Further details available from Sports Centre. Comhairle na nÓg

Louth Comhairle na nOg has had a busy February with weekly meetings for Municipal Groups, training and planning events. On the 2nd of February the full County Comhairle undertook training in Peace Building in Dundalk. The training covered communication skills, understanding conflict and community mapping. This training is under the Civic Leadership Project funded by Louth County Council under Peace IV. Each municipal group is working on developing a local project. Dundalk are looking at the causes of youth homelessness, Mid Louth are exploring underage alcohol and drug consumption and Drogheda are focusing on young people’s Mental Health. The full Comhairle took part in a two day team building residential in Armagh on the 9th and 10th of February. This gave the group an opportunity to get to know each other better and to share their first experiences of Comhairle na nOg. Comhairle members will take part in National Networking Events in Dublin in early March.

Stop Food Waste – St. John’s N.S. and St. Paul’s S.N.S. Funding was received from the EPA for a Stop Food Waste initiative at St. John’s N.S. and St. Paul’s S.N.S. schools in Drogheda. Local chef, Tara Walker from Virgin Media’s “Weekend AM” programme is promoting food waste prevention to parents. The programme has proven to be extremely popular with the parents, and was featured on LMFM on the last day of the programme, Wednesday 27th February 2019. There are plans to run a similar course in Moneymore later in 2019 and we are currently in discussion with Connect Family Resource Centre.

Tidy Towns Project Scheme 2019 Applications were received before the 31st January deadline for the Tidy Towns Project Scheme. Letters of offers have been sent to the successful applicants and it is hoped that the project will greatly assist with the National Tidy Towns Competition applications. It was also deemed that some of the applications were more suitable for a LEADER funding call that will be announced shortly and the applicants have been informed. Amenity Grants 2019 Applications are currently being accepted for the Amenity Grants Scheme 2019. The scheme invites applications for grant assistanced from Residents Association, Tidy Towns Groups and Community Groups. The closing date for applications is Friday, 8th March 2019.

Clár Funding Scheme 2018 Clár is a targeted investment programme for rural areas that aims to provide funding for small infrastructural in projects that experience disadvantage. The following DED’s are eligible for funding support: Ballymascanlon, Carlingford, Drummullagh, Greenore, Jenkinstown, Rathcor and Ravensdale. Projects which have been completed recently include a play area surface at Ardaghy National School and the provision of a play area surface and equipment at St. Oliver’s National School in Carlingford.

All Ireland Community & Council Awards 2019

Larry Magnier, stalwart of the Blackrock Tidy Towns Committee and Chairman of Louth Tidy Towns Together, won the “Community Volunteer of the Year” award at the All Ireland Community & Council Awards 2019, which were held in Croke Park on Saturday 9th February. It is a fitting tribute for many years of service to the Tidy Towns movement in Louth,

which has not only seen a number of Gold Medals for Blackrock but an increase in marks for all of the entries in the national competition in Louth. Town & Village Renewal Scheme Two projects which received funding under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme have been completed recently. The Tullyallen Walkway, which links the village to Townley Hall Wood, will be opened on Saturday 30th March at 2pm. The opening ceremony will be held at King William’s Glen. The opening of the new playground at Stephenstown Pond in Knockbridge took place at 2.30pm on Saturday 3rd March. The playground was opened by the Cathaoirleach Cllr. Liam Reilly.