Derelict apartments make way for green area

A LANDSCAPED green area that has been developed on the site of the former Tradaree Court Flats, the scene of ongoing anti-social behaviour since the flats became derelict, was officially opened this week.
Acting Mayor of Shannon, Michael Fleming was joined by Mayor of Clare, Councillor Christy Curtin to mark the occasion by joining with members of the project team and officials from Clare County Council in a tree-planting ceremony.
The apartments, which were built in the 1970s to house single-parent families, comprised 30 one-bed apartments. They formed part of the property portfolio taken over by Clare County Council from Shannon Development in 2004.
The flats, which were in a deteriorating condition, were finally vacated with the re-homing of last occupant in August 2009.
The two apartment blocks were demolished in December 2010 allowing for the reinstatement of the ground for the provision of a green area. The project, which was included in the council’s Social Housing Investment Programme in 2009, was funded by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
Mayor of Clare, Councillor Christy Curtin described the completion of this project as a positive development for Shannon and represents a significant, positive contribution to the town by Clare County Council.
“Prior to their demolition in late 2010, the apartment blocks had fallen into disrepair. Incidents of anti-social behaviour and littering in the vicinity of the unoccupied buildings had caused some concern within the local community.
“In response to these concerns, the council identified the demolition project as a high priority, given the economic and social costs resulting from the current condition of the two vacant blocks,” Mayor Curtin said.
According to the county manager, Tom Coughlan, the aim of the demolition project, which was completed on time and within budget, was to eliminate risk and ongoing costs to the council and to provide additional open space for the benefit of the residents of Tradaree Court.
“The new green area is a great addition to the town and a wonderful amenity for people in the area. I have no doubt it will be well used by the people of Shannon and surrounding communities for many years to come,” he said.