Preface

The designation of Sligo as a Gateway under the National Spatial Strategy sets the context for the future development of both Sligo city and county. The pace of development in Sligo has increased considerably in the past 18 months with significant projects taking place in Sligo city and expansion of the adjacent towns of Grange, Ballisodare, Collooney, Strandhill and Rosses Point. The key towns of Ballymote, Tubbercurry and Enniscrone are also experiencing significant growth. This expansion is being underpinned by major investments in our infrastructure by the Sligo local authorities and, in particular, the delivery of a broadband network, the advancement of the Sligo Main Drainage Treatment Plant and the provision of the new Inner Relief Road due to open in late 2005. Sligo is almost unique in ensuring that all of this expansion is being carried out in accordance with recently published Development Plans which involved considerable consultation with various communities including the Sligo and Environs Development Plan, 2004-2010, the County Development Plan, 2005-2011 (to be adopted in 2005), Local Area Plans for Enniscrone, Strandhill and Ballinode, together with a series of mini-plans commencing with Ballisodare, Collooney and Grange.

We are constantly appraising the delivery of our Planning services and in 2004 we carried out a thorough review of the entire Planning process. One feature of the review was a number of consultation meetings with designers and agents to improve the quality of planning applications being submitted as the review process had indicated that up to 45% of planning applications submitted were in fact invalid and could not be processed. A new reception facility was commenced in the Planning Office and this has helped to reduce the unacceptably high level of invalid applications.
   
During 2004, we maintained a strong focus on Environmental issues with the continued implementation of the Connaught Waste Management Plan. A full-time Waste Enforcement Officer has been appointed to ensure that waste management practices are brought into line with Government Policy.  This work is being carried out hand-in-hand with educational and awareness programmes to encourage people to reduce and re-use waste. The cost of waste disposal for the normal citizen has been reduced considerably and is currently one of the lowest in the country. The introduction of the kerbside dry recyclable collection has ensured that large quantities of recyclable waste have been diverted from landfill. The issue of littering is still a problem in the county which must be tackled by every citizen. The work of our Dog Warden has ensured that better control on animals is being achieved. Sligo is fortunate to have three Blue Flag beaches and lifeguards provide protection throughout the summer season.

The safety of our meat is constantly being monitored by veterinary staff to ensure adherence to food safety standards.

Monitoring of our lake and river waters has indicated that our water quality is still one of the highest standard in the country and our drinking water supplies comply with the E.U. requirements.

Patrick J. Forkan
Director of Services