South Dublin Street & Backlands Regeneration Project

Significant FURTHER INFORMATION

in relation to an application to An Bord Pleanála for approval under Section 175 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended)

South Dublin Street and Backlands Regeneration Project

Monaghan County Council previously applied for approval on 31st August 2022 from An Bord Pleanála for proposed development works south of Dublin Street and its backlands in the townlands of Roosky and Tirkeenan, within Monaghan Town Centre. The proposed development covers an area of approximately 2.72ha and comprises urban regeneration and public realm proposals, as part of the South Dublin Street and Backlands Regeneration Project (ref. ABP-314501-22).

Notice is hereby given that further information in relation to the proposed development has been furnished to the Board to address alterations to the scheme originally proposed. The proposed amendments include the following elements:

  • Development of pedestrian civic plaza
  • Environmental improvements in alleyways
  • Construction of structural masonry walls and new gable elevation treatments to No’s 7 and 12-13 Dublin Street (amended from previous submission)
  • Retention of outbuilding to the rear of No. 24 Dublin Street
  • Construction of new road / street layouts and public realm comprising new surfaces, kerbing, street furniture, public street and feature lighting, soft landscape planting, cycle parking and signage (amended from previous submission)
  • New boundary treatments comprising walls, railings and fencing
  • All associated site development works

LINK TO FURTHER INFO – https://monaghan.ie/south-dublin-street-backlands-regeneration-project-2/

Location: Properties at 7- 13 Dublin Street, lands to the rear of 1-9 The Diamond and 1-26 Dublin Street, incorporating sections of the Northern Standard property, the Courthouse car park, Lower Courthouse car park, Castle Road, and N54 Macartan (Broad) Road, in the townlands of Roosky and Tirkeenan, Monaghan Town Centre, Monaghan.

Amendments to the original Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) have been undertaken to take account of the revised proposals, and this information is included as part of the submission of further information in respect of the proposed development.

The significant further information will be available for inspection free of charge, or may be purchased on payment of a specified fee (which shall not exceed the reasonable cost of making a copy) at:

  • Monaghan County Council Planning Offices, 1 Dublin Street, Monaghan, H18 X982 between 09:15-13.00hrs and 13.30-17:00hrs
  • The Offices of An Bord Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, D01 V902 between 09:15hrs and 17:30hrs

The significant further information may also be inspected online at the following website: https://monaghan.ie/

Any person may, within the period of 5 weeks from Wednesday 31st January 2024 to Wednesday 6th March 2024 (inclusive of both dates), make a submission or observations in writing to An Bord Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1 D01 V902 or online at www.pleanala.ie in respect of:

  1. the implications of the proposed development, if carried out, for proper planning and sustainable development in the area or areas concerned, and
  2. the likely effects on the environment or the likely effects on a European site, as the case may be, of the proposed development, if carried out.

Submissions or observations duly made will be considered by An Bord Pleanála in making a decision on the application. Any submission or observations must be received by An Bord Pleanála not later than 17:30pm on Wednesday 6th March 2024 and must also include the following information:

  1. the name of the person, authority or body making the submission or observations, the name of the person, if any, acting on behalf of that person, authority or body, and the address to which any correspondence relating to the application should be sent,
  2. the subject matter of the submission or observations, and
  3. the reasons, considerations, and arguments on which the submission or observations is or are based.

For persons who have already made a submission to An Bord Pleanála in relation to this application, a further submission or observation can be made to the Board without requiring payment of a fee. Further submissions or observations can be submitted to the Board by hand or by post to the offices of An Bord Pleanála at 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1 D01 V902, or by email to laps@pleanala.ie.

For those who have not previously made a submission to An Bord Pleanála in relation to this application, any submission or observations must be accompanied by a fee of €50 (except for certain prescribed bodies). Submissions or observations can be submitted to An Bord Pleanála by hand or by post to the offices of the Board at 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1 D01 V902, or through the Board’s online SIDS portal at the following link: https://online.pleanala.ie/en-ie/sid/observation.

Any submissions or observations which do not comply with these requirements cannot be considered by the Board.  The Board may at its absolute discretion hold an oral hearing on the application.

The Board may decide to: (a)(i) approve the proposed development; (ii) make such modifications to the proposed development as it specifies in its decision and grant approval in respect of the proposed development as so modified; or (iii) approve, in part only, the proposed development (with or without specified modifications of it of the foregoing kind); and may attach conditions as it considers appropriate to any approval; or (b) refuse to approve the proposed development.

A person may question the validity of a decision of the Board by way of an application for judicial review, under Order 84 of the rules of the Superior Courts (S.I. No.15 of 1986) in accordance with section 50 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). Information in respect of the judicial review process can be accessed on the Bord’s website https://online.pleanala.ie/en-ie/judicial-review-notice or on the Citizens Information Service website www.citizensinformation.ie.

 Signed: Mr. Cathal Flynn, Director of Services, Monaghan County Council

Date: Thursday 25th January 2024

Monaghan County Council has submitted a planning application to An Bord Pleanála seeking approval under Sections 175 and 177AE of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) for the above project.

The planning application submission is available to view online from Wednesday 7th September 2022 to Wednesday 19th October 2022 (inclusive of both dates), at the links below:

 

 

This information is also available in hard copy to inspect and purchase at the following locations:

  • Monaghan County Council Planning Offices, 1 Dublin Street, Monaghan, H18 X982 between 09:15-13.00hrs and 13.30-17.00hrs from Wednesday 7th September 2022 to Wednesday 19th October 2022 (inclusive of both dates).
  • The offices of An Bord Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, D01 V902 between 09:15hrs and 17:30hrs from Wednesday 7th September 2022 to Wednesday 19th October 2022 (inclusive of both dates).

 

Submissions and Observations

Any person may, within the period of 6 weeks from Wednesday 7th September 2022 to Wednesday 19th October 2022 (inclusive of both dates), make a submission or observations in writing to An Bord Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1 D01 V902 or online at www.pleanala.ie in respect of:

  1. the implications of the proposed development, if carried out, for proper planning and sustainable development in the area or areas concerned, and
  2. the likely effects on the environment or the likely effects on a European site, as the case may be, of the proposed development, if carried out.

 

Any submission or observations must also include the following information:

  1. the name of the person, authority or body making the submission or observations, the name of the person, if any, acting on behalf of that person, authority or body, and the address to which any correspondence relating to the application should be sent,
  2. the subject matter of the submission or observations, and
  3. the reasons, considerations, and arguments on which the submission or observations is or are based.

 

Any submission or observations must be accompanied by a fee of €50 (except for certain prescribed bodies) and must be received by An Bord Pleanala not later than 17.30hrs on Wednesday 19th October 2022.  Submissions or observations duly made will be considered by An Bord Pleanála in making a decision on the application.

Submissions or observations made directly to Monaghan County Council in respect of this proposal will not be considered as valid submissions/observations by An Bord Pleanala.

(Submission received)

ABP Cover Letter

An Taisce

Heritage Council

Sheridan

Eddie OGara Love Monaghan Save Dublin St

Dept of Housing Local Government and Heritage

 

Storm Isha Update – County Monaghan

Monaghan County Council are continuing to respond to reports of fallen trees, debris and other damages across the county.

The following roads remain closed due to Storm Isha.

Monaghan MD 

  • L 1020, Tydavnet to Scotstown Road at Mullaghinshigo
  • L5160 /L 51601 Killybressal Road to N2, North of Emyvale
  • L 5001 Derrynahesco, Knockatallon
  • L5311 Terrycaffe, Tyholland,
  • L 5460 Shanmullagh Road, Clontibret

 

Ballybay/Clones MD 

  • R162 Drumcreenan
  • LP03403 McNallys Road, Cremartin
  • L2241 Scotshouse to Redhills Road
  • L2240 Scotshouse to Redhills Road
  • LP02201 Tullyreas
  • LP02202 Tullyreas
  • LP03130 Caraveagh
  • LP03101 Creeve
  • Togan, Threemilehouse
  • R183 Ballybay/Swans Cross Road

 

Carrickmacross/Castleblayney MD

  • L3210 Milehill Road, Castleblaney
  • L4040 Flood Road, Shantonagh –
  • R183 Marrons Garage, Castleblaney
  • L8660 Rossdreenagh, close to Dundalk Road
  • L75032 Annaglough

 

Deis Mhaoinithe do Sheachtain na Gaeilge – Funding Opportunity for Seachtain na Gaeilge

An bhféadfadh an grúpa pobail agatsa cur le cur chun cinn na nGaeilge i gContae Mhuineacháin le linn 2024?

Tá sé i gceist ag Coiste Gaeilge, Comhairle Contae Mhuineacháin maoiniú teoranta a dháileadh ar ghrúpaí pobail sa chontae a bheadh sásta ócáid a reachtáil le linn Seachtain na Gaeilge.

Bheadh na himeachtaí seo a leanas oiriúnach

  • Léirithe ceoil as Gaeilge
  • Scéalaíocht as Gaeilge
  • Ciorcal Comhrá as Gaeilge
  • Tráth na gCeist as Gaeilge
  • Imeachtaí Spóirt as Gaeilge
  • Pop up Gaeltachta

Ag seo na coinníollacha a bhainfidh leis an maoiniú

  • Beidh an ócáid ar fad as Gaeilge.
  • Is ar ghrúpaí pobail amháin a bhronnfar an maoiniú, ní mór cuntas bainc a bheith ag an ngrúpa.  Ní bhronnfar maoiniú ar dhuine aonair.
  • Beidh na himeachtaí ar siúl le linn Seachtain na Gaeilge agus caithfear iad a chlárú ar  www.snag.ie
  • Ní mór an maoiniú ó Choiste na Gaeilge a admháil in aon phoiblíocht.
  • Ní bhronnfar os cionn €200 ar aon iarratas.

Má tá suim ag an ngrúpa agatsa in ócáid a reachtáil, seol r-phost led thoil chuig Nial Ó Conchúir, Oifigeach Gaeilge ag noconnor@monaghancoco.ie agus luaigh an t-eolas seo a leanas

  1. Ainm an Ghrúpa
  2. Sonraí Teagmhála
  3. An dáta molta don ócáid
  4. An Láthair atá molta
  5. Cur síos ar an ócáid
  6. An méid atá á lorg (faoi réir uasmhéid €200)

Dáta deiridh Aoine 9 Feabhra 2024.

Could your community group contribute to the promotion of Irish Language in County Monaghan during Seachtain na Gaeilge 2024?

Monaghan County Council’s Coiste na Gaeilge is proposing to distribute a small amount of funding to community groups in the County to host an event as Gaeilge during Seachtain na Gaeilge.

Events might include

  • Music events as Gaeilge
  • Storytelling as Gaeilge
  • Ciorcal Cómhra as Gaeilge
  • Table Quiz as Gaeilge
  • Sport events as Gaeilge
  • Pop up Gaeltachta

The Following conditions will be attached to the funding

  • Events must be As Gaeilge.
  • Funding for community groups only, with a bank account. Individuals cannot apply.
  • Events must be held during Seachtain na Gaeilge and be registered on www.snag.ie
  • Funding from Coiste na Gaeilge must be acknowledged in any publicity
  • Grants will not exceed €200 per applicant.

If your group is interested in hosting an event, please send an email to Nial Ó Conchúir Oifigeach Gaeilge at noconnor@monaghancoco.ie with the following information

  1. Name of Group
  2. Contact Details
  3. Proposed date of event
  4. Proposed Venue
  5. Description of event
  6. Amount being requested (subject to maximum €200)

Closing date is Friday 9th  February 2024.

 

 

Monaghan project highlighted in new booklet celebrating 25 years of Heritage Officer work

15 January, 2024

A special Heritage Council publication featuring stories from heritage officers in every county is being launched today to mark 25 years since the Heritage Officer Network was founded. The booklet, ‘Opening the door to Ireland’s heritage’ details one key heritage project from each local authority from the last three years which collectively, highlight the enormous contribution the Network has made to the preservation of our heritage over the last quarter of a century.

The story features details of the ‘Magic Under Monaghan’ film that grabbed the attention of young people across the county. Its aim was to explain the wonder of Monaghan’s bogs in way that was educational, but also entertaining and accessible. Young people are increasingly concerned about environmental degradation, and with that can come anxiety about the effects of climate change. The entertaining and satirical approach in the film aimed to lift the worry enough for them to see practical solutions.

The film is locally significant while addressing the overarching global themes of climate change and biodiversity loss. It clearly illustrates the values of Sliabh Beagh, the cross-border expanse of blanket bog where filming took place over five days. Talented children’s TV presenter John Sharpson presents the film and is well known as Múinteoir John from RTÉ Home School Hub. The film was distributed to all schools in the county and has assumed a pivotal role within their interpretation and educational resources. ‘Magic Under Monaghan’ was shortlisted in the Sustainable Environment & Biodiversity category in the Excellence in Local Government Awards 2023.

It can be viewed from the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ru5YBcifvDQ

In a partnership between the Heritage Council and local authorities, the first heritage officers were appointed in 1999 in Kerry, Sligo and Galway with the aim of raising awareness of heritage issues within the local authority and among local communities. Since then, the heritage officer network has become synonymous with the protection and promotion of Ireland’s heritage and for the first time in 2021, every local authority in the country had appointed somebody to the role.

While highlighting the important work they do, the stories in the publication also offer a stark insight into what may have been lost were it not for the heritage officers. Mangan’s Clock in the heart of Cork city may have fallen into disrepair. The most historic buildings in Ballyshannon or Listowel may have been left derelict and allowed to crumble. The natural beach and dune habitats along the coast of Wicklow may have become irrevocably degraded and the craftsmanship of dry-stone walling on Inis Oirr may have receded.

The publication can be read in full on the Heritage Council website here:

https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/content/files/Opening-the-Door-to-Irelands-Heritage.pdf

More information about the Heritage Officer Network is available here:

https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/our-work-with-others/county-heritage-officers

Speaking on the launch of the booklet, Heritage Officer for Monaghan County Council, Kara Ward, said:

“It is deeply satisfying to see documented in this publication the influence of the Heritage Officer Network in shaping our approach to heritage conservation and protection. Although we work as individuals at local authority level, what is clear from these pages is that the real strength of the Network is in the collective. These stories cover only a snapshot of recently completed projects from current heritage officers, so when we factor in the hundreds of past projects completed since 1999, it brings into the focus the enormous impact that the Local Authority Heritage Officer Programme has had.”

Chairperson of the Heritage Council Martina Moloney added:

“I have had the pleasure of working extensively with our Heritage Officers over many years and am constantly amazed by the shear variety of their work which is excellently captured in this beautiful publication. Not only do they provide advice, guidance, and information on all aspects of heritage, but they also secure funding, undertake research, collect data, and develop and lead a multitude of highly impactful and engaging projects. Raising awareness locally, Heritage Officers inspire communities to value and take ownership of their important local heritage in all its forms. What their work achieves, ultimately, is that it opens the door to our heritage for people across Ireland and further afield, so that it can be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone.”

John Mulholland, Chair of the CCMA Rural Development, Community, Culture and Heritage (RCCH) Committee also attended the launch, and said:

“What has always stood out to me about the Heritage Officer Network is the range and number of individuals, groups and funders involved in the projects they undertake. It is very difficult to keep such a diverse range of interested parties singing off the same hymn sheet and getting the job done. This is the silent but tireless work of the Heritage Officers at play, to whom we owe a great debt of gratitude. On behalf of the CCMA, I commend them for their dedication.”

Rates Notice 2024

COMHAIRLE CONTAE MHUINEACHÁIN

Oifigí an Chontae, An Gleann, Muineachán

 MONAGHAN COUNTY COUNCIL

County Offices, The Glen, Monaghan

Notice is hereby given under Section 3 (1) of the Local Government (Financial Procedures) Regulations 2023 (Inserted by Section 263 of the Historic and Archaeological Heritage & Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023) that the Annual Rate on Valuation for all rateable properties within the rating authority of Monaghan County Council, for the financial year commencing on 1st January 2024 and ending the 31st December 2024 is €0.2445

 

11th January 2024

Olga McConnon

A/Head of Finance

County Council Offices

The Glen

Monaghan

 

 

 

 

NOTICE OF HAVING MADE A VESTING ORDER, UNDER THE DERELICT SITES ACT 1990, AS AMENDED

Notice under Section 17(3) (a) of the Derelict Sites Act, 1990 (as amended)

NOTICE OF HAVING MADE A VESTING ORDER, UNDER THE DERELICT SITES ACT 1990, AS AMENDED

Notice is hereby given that Monaghan County Council (hereinafter referred to as the “Local Authority”), in exercise of the powers conferred on them by Section 17 of the Derelict Sites Act 1990, as amended, has made a Vesting Order, under the said Act, the derelict site described hereunder.

The lands referred to is a derelict site within the meaning of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 (as amended by the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2015) (hereinafter called ‘the Act’).

A copy of the order and map of the said derelict site has been deposited at the Planning reception of Monaghan County Council, Planning Offices, No. 1 Dublin Street, Monaghan, and may be inspected there during public opening hours.

The Local Authority in exercise of the powers conferred on them by section 17 of the Act, hereby order that the land described hereunder shall, on 9th February 2024, vest in the Local Authority in fee simple free from encumbrances and all estates, rights, titles and interests of whatsoever kind.

Schedule: Description of Land

Derelict site at McCurtain Street, Clones, Co. Monaghan, comprising of three no. two storey terraced houses, arched entryway and rear garden areas, bounded to the west by public footpath/road, to the north by dwelling house and rear gardens, to the east by rear gardens and to the south by dwelling house and rear gardens.

(Area:  517 square metres)

 

Dated this 11th day of January 2024

 

Signed:

Cathal Flynn

Director of Services

Economic Development, Planning & Capital Projects

Monaghan County Council

 

HSE issue advice on respiratory illnesses (Flu and COVID-19)

Protect yourself and others – Vaccination and good infection and prevention control measures remain key in reducing transmission of respiratory illnesses

January 4, 2024: HSE Dublin and North East is urging the public to follow public health advice – if you have respiratory symptoms stay at home until 48 hours after your major symptoms have resolved and get vaccinated as high levels of flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses are currently circulating in the community.

Dr Suzanne Cotter, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, Public Health HSE Dublin and North East, said: “The surge of respiratory illnesses in the community is putting significant pressure on our health services across the region. We know from previous years that a delayed peak in flu season such as we are seeing now, will inevitably lead to further pressures throughout the health services with heightened risk of outbreaks in healthcare settings.”

“If you are unwell you should stay home until 48 hours after your major symptoms have resolved; avoid visiting people who are more vulnerable if you are unwell, especially avoid visiting hospitals or residential care facilities if unwell. As schools and childcare facilities reopen this week we also ask parents and guardians to keep their children home from school/crèche if they have respiratory symptoms.”

“We remind people about good infection control practice, including washing hands regularly and covering nose and mouth if you have coughs and sneezes. Every healthcare setting is assessing the risks locally and monitoring their own local risks, and this may lead them to take additional measures in certain settings, such as the wearing of masks if deemed necessary. Such measures will help protect those who may be more vulnerable to the effects of these infections. Significant work has taken place and continues, to support acute hospitals deal with the expected rise in attendances and admissions. It is not too late to get vaccination, which can protect you and your loved ones, and help reduce the burden on the health service at a very busy time of year.”

“Vaccination remains the best way to reduce the incidence or these respiratory illnesses. Flu and COVID-19 are caused by two different viruses and require two different vaccines. The HSE is urging every eligible person to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible.  People with long-term health conditions, healthcare workers (HCWs) and children aged 2-17 can avail of free vaccination. You can get the flu and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. For information on COVID-19 and flu vaccination and to find where to get your vaccines, visit the HSE.ie or call HSELive on 1800 700 700,” added Dr Cotter.

Mr Frank Morrison, Acting Chief Officer, HSE Community Healthcare Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Monaghan, Sligo, (CH CDLMS) said: “If you, or someone you care for, becomes ill or is injured, knowing how to manage common illnesses and where to go if you need medical assistance will also make it that bit easier. There are a number of options available to you depending on what medical assistance you need including an extensive GP Out-of-Hours service and local injury units. Please consider all the options that are available to you to help determine your best course of action,” He added.

Other options available if you are feeling unwell or are injured are:

Community Pharmacies:

You can visit your local pharmacy if you feel unwell. Pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals. They can give you medicines you can buy without a prescription, medicines you have a prescription for, advice on minor illnesses, and can tell you if you need to see a GP.

GPs and GP Out-of-Hours Services:

If you urgently need to see a GP outside their clinic hours, you can contact your local GP out-of-hours service.

Minor Injury Units:

Injury units treat injuries that are not life-threatening or unlikely to need admission to hospital. For example, broken bones, dislocations and burns. You do not need an appointment. There are HSE injury units located around the country, you can find one close to you on the HSE website.

See the HSE website for useful advice on common illnesses such as colds, coughs, flu, earache and sore throats and information on how to keep well in winter.

Monaghan County Council Publishes 2023 Gender Pay Gap Report

Monaghan County Council has today published its Gender Pay Gap Report, highlighting the percentage difference between what men and women are paid on average in the organisation, irrespective of roles or levels.

The 2023 report shows a Gender Pay Gap that on average, females are paid 3.01% more than males. The Median Gender Pay Gap shows that the median rate of pay for females is 13.84% higher than the median rate of pay for males.

Employers with more than 250 employees in Ireland are required to publish their gender pay gap data before the end of 2023 and within six months of their reference date. Monaghan County Council and all local authorities in the country chose 30th June 2023 as the reference date.

Publishing our gender pay gap data helps to reinforce our focus on supporting an open and inclusive workplace at Monaghan County Council.  Our organisation is a place where all employees have the same opportunities for recognition and career development and are treated fairly and equitably at work. We continue to be committed to addressing workplace barriers to equality and creating an open and inclusive workplace community. Many equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives and supports are already in place, and we will continue to work in this area.”

See the Council’s Gender Pay Gap report here: Gender Pay Gap Report 2023 (View here)

Working in local government gives people the opportunity to play a key role in the positive development of their county and community. As an employer, Monaghan County Council is committed to providing a positive and supportive environment for employees. The Council offer flexible and family friendly arrangements, blended working, and great career progression and education opportunities.

Monaghan County Council is encouraging anyone seeking a career in local government to visit our website www.monaghan.ie to find out more about the work we do.

 

HGV restrictions – Glaslough St. and Dublin St. in Monaghan Town

Monaghan County Council are implementing HGV restrictions on movement of Heavy Goods Vehicles of 4 axles or greater through Glaslough St. and Dublin St., in Monaghan Town between the hours of 8am and 5am Monday to Sunday inclusive.

 Appropriate Road Traffic signs have been erected at the entrance to and the exit from the prohibited roads and streets in accordance with the Road Traffic (Control of Traffic) Regulations 2006.

 Hauliers requiring a permit for the purpose of making a delivery can apply for permits exempting them from the prohibitions and charges will apply in respect of these permits.

 These restrictions will come into effect from 18th December 2023.

Monaghan County Council lodge planning for an exciting new Civic Headquarters at Rooskey Monaghan

Proposed new Civic Office Headquarters

Monaghan County Council recently submitted a Part VIII Planning Application for new Civic Offices located at the Rooskey Lands in Monaghan Town. The purpose of the development is to consolidate and improve Monaghan County Council’s civic facilities, office accommodation and improve our customer service offering. The project will ultimately lead to service efficiency improvements by  lowering operational costs; by eliminating current office rental arrangements and reducing the Local Authority’s energy demand. The new office accommodation will have a gross floor area of 5,601m2, distributed over three tiered floors, incorporating an entrance foyer, office spaces, meeting rooms, a staff canteen, council chamber, customer service desks, welfare facilities and internal landscaped courtyards. The planning application also provides for a new Rooskey Lands access road, improved pedestrian and cycle links, a car park and all associated site development works.

The proposed Civic Offices marks the first phase of an ambitious economic development and regeneration strategy for the Rooskey Lands and Dublin Street areas. The project is aligned with the provisions of the Rooskey Master Plan and the approved Variations of the County Monaghan Development Plan. The Masterplan and approved Variations seek to regenerate an area in urban decline, generate employment and contribute to the creation of a new urban quarter, whilst integrating successfully with the established built-up area of the town and providing a consolidated home for Local Authority service provision. The project will also act as a catalyst for the regeneration of Dublin Street and its back lands, making Monaghan a better place to work, live and visit.

Some of the Key features of the Project are identified in Image 1 and described briefly below.

Pedestrian Access to Diamond Centre/Square

The project Architects Henry J Lyons, propose a number of pedestrian and cycle paths through the site linking directly to the town centre through the Diamond Car Park, Dublin Street and Old Cross Square areas.

Active Travel Access Road to Roosky Lands

The town centre site encourages sustainable modes of travel. The proposed new access to the Rooskey Lands and Civic Offices provides dedicated cycle lanes and pedestrian footpaths which link to the existing Ulster Canal Greenway, St Davnet’s Healthcare and Monaghan Harps GAA Club, promoting active modes of travel for locals and visitors. The new Rooskey Lands access road will also provide the vehicular route for people arriving to avail of Monaghan County Council services, as well as providing access to the remaining Roosky Lands for future mixed use development.

Farney Place

The Public Plaza marks the entrance to the Civic Offices and provides visitor and accessible parking spaces. Farney Place is also one of the key pedestrian spaces; connecting the proposed Dublin Street North Regeneration Plan and the future development of the Rooskey Lands.

Infirmary Hill Walk

The existing pedestrian path beside the Old Infirmary and leading to St Davnet’s HSE facility is proposed to be widened and upgraded from Old Cross Square, it will intersect with the proposed pedestrian and cycle facility on St. Davnet’s Row and on to Farney Place.

Monaghan County Council

Image 1. Bird’s Eye View from Old Cross Square – The proposed new Civic Offices for Monaghan County Council will provide a modern, inclusive building which engages with the town and serves its population through an enhanced public realm design and high-quality architecture.

Image 2. Bird’s Eye View from Dublin Street North – The scale and massing of the Proposed Civic Offices has been carefully considered to provide an appropriate and sympathetic interface between the proposed site and existing properties of Dublin Street and the Apartments of The Diamond Centre.

Image 3. Approach from Diamond Square – Pedestrian movement, cycling and the creation of public spaces are defining principals of the site strategy, improving the connections with the existing network of streets and the future connections proposed in the Dublin Street North masterplan.

Image 4. Approach from proposed new Roosky Access Road – The consideration of scale started at the site edges and perimeters with the concept of three volumes being placed centrally on the site. These three volumes are interlinked and overlap each other to sit comfortably on the site, framed by a series of landscaped spaces.

Image 5. Approach from Farney Place – Farney Place is one of the key pedestrian spaces. The public plaza is designed to be flexible to allow for community events while also catering for the daily needs of customers and visitors.