Tuesday 20 March 2007

Tenders invited for new civic centre

This story from last week warrants the attention of Gorey residents:

Tenders have been invited for the new civic centre on the Avenue in Gorey. It had been hoped that work would start in March on the project, but adjustments had to be made to the plans, so work is unlikely to begin until early summer.

Consultants for the Avenue Residents Association have written to the Council asking for details of the alterations.

The residents have asked to view the planning file so they can ensure that the planning process has been conducted in accordance with requirements.

Welcoming news of the tender process, Cllr. Michael D'Arcy said the integrated venture with other government agencies incorporates a new courthouse, VEC educational facilities, Wexford County Council district offices, Gorey Town Council chamber, HSE offices and a long awaited library. There will also be 40 apartments in the development.

'The project went to tender last Friday and is expected to cost in the region of e20 million,' he said. 'The tenders will be open for a matter of weeks before being analysed and then the contract will be awarded to the successful applicants. Work is hoped to commence in early summer'.

'North Wexford has been waiting for years for this project to be finally realised,' he added. 'I want to congratulate all concerned. I was delighted as Chairman of Co. Wexford VEC to oversee the transfer of the land to accommodate this massive development. I have no doubt this will become a yardstick development for other towns and other local authorities'.

Cllr.D'Arcy also called on the Council to meet the requirements of Part V of the Planning Act. This obliges developers to make available 20 per cent of the units to the local authority. 'In my view Wexford County Council will have to make eight apartments available for social/ affordable use,' he said.

No comments: