170-acre Shannon Development land bank

IN a letter from Shannon Development to the town council, it stated it owns around 170 acres locally.

The letter was sent in reply to previous correspondence from the town council and stated, “Further to your letter dated July 13, 2012, I can confirm Shannon Development owns a land bank in the region of 170 acres in the Shannon Town Council Administrative Area. These lands are predominantly located in the Ballycasey/Smithstown areas and include Shannon Free Zone East Park. The lands are zoned Light Industry and Enterprise in the Draft Shannon Town and Environs Local Area Plan 2011-2018.”

Councillor Sean McLoughlin said what the council particularly wanted to find out was what land is owned by Shannon Development outside of the main industrial areas.

A separate letter from CEO of Shannon Development, Vincent Cunnane, stated it would be premature to discuss the agency’s future with the council. “Thank you for the invitation from Shannon Town Council to address elected members on the future role of Shannon Development in the management of Shannon Airport and any possible implications concerning our remit and how alternative agencies will work for the region.

“As you know, a Government decision to separate Shannon Airport from Dublin Airport Authority was announced on May 9. Following this, a steering group and two taskforces were established and Shannon Development is represented on both taskforce teams.

“The steering group has been charged with bringing forward proposals for the implementation of the Government decision on restructuring the State airports and Shannon Development and the realignment of tourism and enterprise support functions in the region.

“As the process has only just commenced, it would be premature, at this stage, to brief the town council. However, I will pass your request to the steering group to apprise them of your concerns,” Mr Cunnane stated.