Roadworks needed after flooding

A SIGNIFICANT amount of roadworks are likely to be needed in Ennis due to the November flooding, according to the town council’s budget for 2010.
“Road grants received in 2009 were substantially less than anticipated, due to funding restrictions at national level. The council has maintained its own resources allocation to the roads programme at €210,000. The overall situation regarding roads will need to be reviewed when road grants are notified in 2010, as there is evidence of significant work required as a result of the serious flooding that occurred in mid-November,” stated town manager, Ger Dollard in his introduction to the budget.
He also said that the council is still looking at providing more off-street parking, while fewer people are breaching parking regulations in Ennis.
“During 2009, the council advertised for expressions of interest for the provision of off street car parking in the town. Six expressions of interest were received and the council formed an assessment panel to consider the proposals. The report of the panel indicated that, notwithstanding that there were significant issues with two expressions of interests, these two submissions should be the subject of further assessment. This process is currently underway.
“Parking income for 2009 is ahead of budget but income from traffic fines is substantially down on the anticipated budget for the year. This would suggest a higher level of compliance with parking regulations, despite the temporary reduction in spaces due to works on the Ennis Flood Relief Scheme. These spaces will again be available in 2010. It is proposed to undertake a major review of parking arrangements and charges in 2010 and present separate proposals for consideration of the council.”
Work on the provision of the town’s inner relief road is set to continue.
“The process for construction of the final section of the inner relief road was progressed in 2009. An arbitrator has been appointed under the Compulsory Purchase Order for the acquisition of the portion of the land required.
“It is expected that the arbitrator will report in mid-2010. Provision has been made in the draft budget under the provision for loan charges for this project. Loan approval will be required from the department to progress this scheme.”
Ennis Town Council is spending €55,000 on Christmas lighting and Mr Dollard said that a good deal had been secured.
“This contract was the subject of a competitive tendering process in 2009 and the very competitive price obtained allows further monies to be spent on upgrading of lights and the installation of additional features. Such an approach is important in ensuring that Ennis continues to be an attractive shopping destination during the Christmas shopping period.”