Calls for more investment in Limerick's growing suburbs
Independent councillor Ursula Gavan wants to see a hike in spend across Castletroy and Annacotty
A CALL has been made for extra investment in two of Limerick’s fastest-growing areas.
Independent City East councillor Ursula Gavan has warned that rapid population growth in both Castletroy and Annacotty is outpacing that of essential services and facilities.
She pointed out that significant numbers of new houses have been built in the area - with many more under construction.
But there has been only limited expansion of public space and key services, she added in a statement to Limerick Live.
Councillor Gavan said: “Annacotty and Castletroy are among the fastest growing communities not just in Limerick, but across the entire State. The population figures clearly show the scale of change we are dealing with, yet the infrastructure and amenities simply have not kept pace.”
She pointed to limited community facilities, pressure on schools and childcare, libraries and youth centres.
"We have one park catering for 20,000 children and whilst that is welcome, locals are calling for more pocket parks throughout the area to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding and increasingly diverse population,” she said.
Cllr Gavan now wants to see Limerick City and County Council alongside central Government move to ensure housing delivery is matched by investment.
“We cannot continue to approve large-scale housing while leaving communities without the supports they need. Growth must be planned properly — and that means delivering schools, transport, community spaces, and services alongside housing,” she said.
The Independent councillor pointed out there have long been plans for a garda station, a library plus a community and youth centre in the area.
"There’s also an urgent need for additional early years childcare for many of the new families now resident in the area,” she said.
“People are proud to call Annacotty and Castletroy home. They deserve communities that are properly supported, properly planned, and fit for the future. The time to act is now,” Cllr Gavan concluded.
The wider Castletroy area, which includes Monaleen, Annacotty and the hinterland of the University of Limerick, has between 30,000 and 40,000 people estimated to be living there.