Major boost for Limerick village as lease is approved for new 'community facility'

A COMMUNITY group in west Limerick has received a major boost after councillors approved plans to lease it council-owned lands.

Plans to develop a new community facility, playground and car park have moved a step closer with the approval of the land disposal.

The 2.5 acre site in Castletown, Ballyagran, will be transformed under the proposals, creating a new hub for community activities alongside a playground and dedicated parking.

At the March meeting of the Newcastle West Municipal District, it was proposed that the land be given to Castletown Conyers Development Association CLG by way of a 30-year lease to facilitate the proposed developments.

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The community group is seeking a lease from the council for the village site to facilitate the development of a multipurpose community facility, playground and car park.

Planning permission for the proposed amenities is currently being progressed by the group.

The committee intends to seek additional funding through local community initiatives once the lease is formally secured.

Under the terms of the proposed 30-year lease, the land will revert to the local authority if the playground and other approved amenities are not developed within an agreed timeframe.

Recommending that the lease be approved, Jayne Leahy, head of property services confirmed the land in question was purchased in 1984 by Limerick County Council and that the local authority has no use for the lands.

The matter will now come before a full meeting of Limerick City and County County Council for final approval.