North Meath LAP meetings see many locals meet planners

The format used to encourage locals to participate in the village Local Area Plan (LAPs) process has proven to be a great success in the north of the county, according to Cllr Bryan Reilly after he attended packed meetings in Carlanstown, Moynalty and Drumconrath. The change has involved planners attending the launch, complete with maps of the existing area plans, and discussing with locals their concerns and future intentions. The meetings have also been well attended by local councillors, allof whom have urged local people to actively involve themselves in the planning process and to prepare submissions on matters they feel should be included in the LAPs. Cllr Reilly said the turnout in Carlanstown was particularly impressive, proving 'a very good mix' of both long-established and more recent residents. Both Moynalty and Drumconrath villagers also took advantage of the opportunity to speak privately to officials and get a clearer idea of planning objectives in their areas. The meetings in Nobber, Kilmainhamwood, Crossakiel and Carnaross also drew good attendances while the strategic issues paper will remain on display for these communities until mid-October. 'The change from holding a straightforward public meeting to launch such plans had proven very effective, since many individuals would not be at ease raising matters in such a forum,' said Cllr Reilly. He said he was looking forward to locals making the system their own by preparing submissions on foot of the information given to them at the LAP meetings.