SERVICES
Monaghan County Council is pleased to confirm that planning approval has been issued by An Bord Pleanála for a major regeneration scheme to the south of Dublin Street in Monaghan town centre. The project targets regeneration of the backland area’s to the south of Dublin Street, the opening of development lands, the assembly of suitable land parcels, and the provision of critical infrastructure and public realm facilities that will serve as a catalyst for future town centre investment. The project aims to regenerate an area in urban decline, generate employment and contribute to the creation of a new urban quarter, whilst integrating successfully within the established built-up area of the town.
Planning approval for the project is a significant milestone in the Council’s progression of strategic regeneration proposals for Dublin Street environs and wider town centre area. The South Dublin Street scheme marks the first phase of an ambitious regeneration strategy for Dublin Street areas (North & South) and adjoining Rooskey Lands. Funding of over €13.1 million has been allocated for the Dublin Street Regeneration project by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), with match funding being provided by Monaghan County Council.
In terms of project progression, Monaghan County Council will advance the preparation of final detailed designs and draft tender documentation in the coming months. Negotiations for property acquisitions with affected property owners will continue during the year. The Council expect that a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) process for properties not acquired by agreement will be progressed in 2025. Monaghan County Council will continue to work in partnership with Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in progressing the regeneration scheme to the next project stage approval (Pre-Tender Approval) as required under the Public Spending Code/Infrastructural Guidelines.
Monaghan County Council, Chief Executive Robert Burns said: “Monaghan County Council are extremely happy to secure planning approval from An Bord Pleanála for the South Dublin Street and Backlands Regeneration project. Delivery of regeneration schemes, driving economic growth and promoting community and social benefits within our towns and villages are top priorities for Monaghan County Council. The principal vision of the proposed regeneration scheme is to create a new vibrant and sustainable urban quarter in our county town, addressing the weaknesses of the area and maximising its strengths. In partnership with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Monaghan County Council is fully committed to progressing this transformative project to a successful fruition, thereby contributing to economic, community, tourism and cultural development within Dublin Street environs and wider town area”.
Cathaoirleach for Monaghan County Council Cllr. Paul Gibbons stated: “I wholeheartedly welcome planning approval from An Bord Pleanála for this long-awaited regeneration scheme. The successful delivery of the project will act as a catalyst for the regeneration of Dublin Street and its backlands, thereby creating local economic and community benefits and making Monaghan a better place to live, work and visit”.