Derelict site in Kilkee a ‘huge eyesore’

KILKEE town councillors have expressed concern at the derelict state of a number of buildings in the town, while they have also highlighted issues relating to the dumping of rubbish.
At Monday’s May meeting of the town council, Councillor Elaine Haugh Hayes asked that Clare County Council “force” the owners of a derelict petrol station on the Kilrush Road, “to enhance the forecourt”, while she also noted the state of the Ocean Cove Hotel.
“This site is deteriorating at a rapid pace,” Councillor Haugh Hayes claimed.
“The site on the way into Kilkee is a huge eyesore. Something needs to be done with it. These sites are going to have to be looked after. Their condition is affecting the rest of places that are open,” she added.
In reply, Kilkee town clerk John Corry said Clare County Council is looking into derelict site concerns in the town.
“I spoke with the area planner on this matter. She said that the sites are contained as Opportunity Sites within the Kilkee Town Improvement and Economic Development Strategy. The strategy identifies particular works that would improve the appearance of both sites. There is legislation available, under the Derelict Sites Act, to pursue those sites.
“The area planner said that Clare County Council is carrying out a full overview of the town to determine what derelict sites need addressing, with priority given to the Opportunity Sites,” the town clerk explained.
Councillor Haugh Hayes suggested that a letter be sent from Kilkee Town Council to Clare County Council on the issue.
“I believe the people who own the sites have a responsibility,” she said.
Concerns were also raised, by Councillor Karen Reilly, in relation to the dumping of domestic rubbish on Dough Road (Brick Road).
Although the councillor had suggested that no dumping signs be erected on the road, she accepted that might bring more attention to the issue.
“It’s household rubbish. It’s coming from cars that are on the road. Residents on the road tidied it and picked up the rubbish. It was household waste,” Councillor Reilly explained.
“I was told that if you put up a sign, you’re only drawing attention to it and you could make the situation worse. The council lads are aware of it and they have been picking it up. This isn’t a once-off,” she added.
“We have the same problem in the Bog Road with household rubbish and the dumping of old cars, although that has stopped now. I’ve been on to the council for the last 10 years about it. This is going on at 2am or 3am. It isn’t tourists who are doing it,” Councillor Brian Keane told the meeting.
“The council is well aware of the position and it is something that is being policed closely,” Mr Corry said of the dumping on Dough Road.