A draft local area plan for the Monksland area of Athlone is to be published later this month, following a public consultation workshop held with locals last week.
The public meeting, held last Tuesday in Monksland, saw a number of issues raised by local residents, which will now be incorporated into the draft plan before it is made available to the public.
Cllr John Naughten described the well-attended meeting as very productive, with particular concern raised over the infrastructure of the area, including roads, footpaths, lighting, and cycle lanes on the old and new Tuam roads.
“In the future people want development to take place in an orderly and controlled fashion,” he said.
“People raised concerns about the lack of community and educational facilities, and about developing tourism potential in the region.”
According to Cllr Naughten, there was also concern regarding the lack of broadband service, though this is now expected to be delivered in October.
The potential for job creation through an industrial base and an enterprise centre for small businesses were also discussed.
In addition, locals identified a need to increase recycling facilities in the area.
The draft Local Area Plan 2009-2015 for Monksland will be on display to the public later in August for a six-week consultation period.
