There are now just weeks left to have an input into the Louth County Development Plan for 2015-2021, with the closing date for submissions to the draft document falling on Wednesday, December 17.
To date 27 submissions have been received by the local authority and as the December 17 deadline approaches, a renewed call is being made for as many people, groupings etc to play a vital role in the shaping of the County’s future.
A number of planning clinics were held throughout November in Dundalk, Drogheda, Ardee, Carlingford and Dunleer with strong interest recorded.
Interested individuals, including those representing community and voluntary groups and also those from the business community spoke with planning staff on hand at the clinics to answer any queries they may have in relation to the draft plan which is currently on display at various locations across the county.
Speaking on the success of the planning clinics and calling once again for submissions, Mary T Daly, Director of Services, said: “Louth County Council planning staff welcomed all the views and opinions regarding the draft County Development Plan and encouraged all those attending the clinics to put their views on the plan forward as a submission/observation to be an effective part of shaping the county’s future.
“To date 27 submissions have been made and I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who have made submissions as they are playing a fundamental role in local democracy and forward planning.
“It is hoped that many more submissions will be made in the coming weeks. County Louth has so many valued individuals, community and business groupings already taking a central role within the County. Their opinions and input in the Draft County Development Plan would be invaluable.
“This is the public’s opportunity to be involved and I would ask as many as possible to take the time to look through the Plan and share their feedback and opinions with Louth County Council so that we can put forward the best County Development Plan.
“For those who were unable to attend the clinics, the plan is still on display at a number of locations in addition to www.louthcoco.ie. There is still time to review the draft document and make any submission you feel will be beneficial to the future of County Louth.
The display period finishes on Wednesday, December 17, 2014. Following on from this, a report will be prepared for Council on the submissions received. This will summarise the issues raised, outline a response to the various points made and recommend amendments to the draft plan where appropriate.
This report alongside the draft plan will then be presented to the elected members of Louth County Council for consideration.
The Draft Louth County Development Plan 2015-2021 may be viewed at the following locations: County Hall, Millennium Centre, Dundalk; Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk; Council Offices, Fair Street, Drogheda; Mid-Louth Civic Centre, Fairgreen, Ardee and at the libraries in Dundalk, Drogheda, Ardee, Dunleer and Carlingford.
It may also be downloaded here.
All interested parties are entitled to make submissions/observations including children or groups representing children’s interests. All such submissions/observations received within the statutory period will be taken into consideration prior to the final adoption of the plan which will govern development in Louth through to 2021.
