Sinn Féin councillor Paul Hogan has this week renewed calls for action to be taken by both the local authority and the owners of the Old Show Grounds. Cllr Hogan claims that the property, located near the Big Meadow, close to St Aloysius Cllege, is currently being used as a drugs den.
Cllr Hogan said he was renewing calls to the owners of the Old Show Grounds to demolish the structure or make it secure.
“Athlone Town Council has significant powers under the Dangerous Structures and Derelict Sites Act. This shed is currently being used as a drugs den and it would serve in the interest of the adjacent communities to have it demolished,” he said.
“I have raised this on numerous occasions with the council and have requested that a derelict sites notice be served on the owners of the property.
“Over the weekend, I visited the property and to my dismay and disdain, I uncovered a longstanding drugs den. Syringes, needles, tinfoil, and injecting utensils were discarded throughout the structure.
“Immediately beside the shed is a sports field and a popular Shannon walkway. This area would be a great facility for the local communities and schools but action needs to be taken without any further delay to have this property demolished,” he added.
