‘Dunshaughlin cannot be left behind again’
Meath County Council has been urged to prioritise the Dunshaughlin courthouse and wider town centre regeneration projects in applications to the Rural Regional Development Fund.
As applications opened on Friday for the latest round of funding, Cllr Fionnan Blake said the whole community in Dunshaughlin felt terribly let down last time when the local projects weren't included..
“Dunshaughlin cannot be left behind again,” he said.
“In the last round, major regeneration funding was allocated to towns across the state, yet Dunshaughlin’s courthouse and Town Centre projects were unsuccessful. Dunshaughlin is one of the fastest growing towns in County Meath, it needs and deserves sufficient funding for our infrastructure to keep track with the increase in housing and population.
“Our community has experienced rapid population growth, increased pressure on infrastructure, and a clear need for investment in public space. Despite this we were previously overlooked. That must be addressed, the Minister has confirmed that previously unsuccessful projects may reapply for funding under the scheme. This is a critical opportunity; however, it is vital that Dunshaughlin is put forward with ambition and determination.
Cllr Blake said he would be formally raising this with Meath County Council and urging that the Dunshaughlin courthouse and wider town centre regeneration projects are prioritised and submitted as soon as the fund begins accepting proposals.
“There can be no hesitation and no half measures. We cannot allow our town to miss out again while other communities move ahead.
“I firmly believe that the redevelopment of the courthouse and the enhancement of the town centre are not optional extras. They are essential infrastructure projects that would strengthen the social, economic and cultural fabric of our town. These projects would support local business, enhance community life for our expanding population and protect our built heritage.
“The Government states that applications are assessed against transparent criteria including economic and social impact and regenerative potential. Dunshaughlin meets and exceeds those benchmarks. What we need now is a strong application and a firm commitment to securing our fair share.
“Darren O’Rourke TD and I will continue to press this issue at local and national level until we see meaningful investment delivered for our town”.
There is a public realm plan in place for Dunshaughlin which includes upgrade works along the Main Street with traffic calming and pedestrian crossing measures, new and upgraded pedestrian facilities, active travel infrastructure, rationalised street parking and accessible spaces and public lighting works.
There are also plans to upgrade the former courthouse building and create a focal point for the village in the area to the front of the building.
The plans include the conservation, renovation and extension of the courthouse,which is a protected structure which will become a multi-purpose community facility.