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Dated 6th October 2020 / 6 Deireadh Fomhair

Chief Executive’s Monthly Management Report in relation to functions performed in the preceding month / Tuairisc Bainistíochta Míosúala ag an

Príomhfheidhmeannach maidir le feidhmeanna déanta I rith an mhí seo caite

Prepared under Section 136 (2) of the Local Government Act, 2001, as inserted by Section 51 of the Local

Government (Reform) Act, 2014 / Ullmhaithe faoin Alt 136, an tAcht Rialtais Áitiúl, 2001, agus Alt 51, an tAcht Rialtais Áitiúil (Athchóiriú),2014

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CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S MANAGEMENT REPORT – 30th September 2020

Contents

Finance & Water Services 3

Financial Reports Water Services

Planning, Infrastructure and Economic Development 11

Economic Development Local Enterprise Office European Relations Infrastructure Planning

Development Management Planning Enforcement Forward Planning

Operations & Waste Management 27

Operations Waste Management Air, Water and Noise Pollution Environment Veterinary Services

Corporate and Emergency Services 35

Corporate Services Sustainable Energy Fire & Emergency Services Civil Defence

Housing and Quality of Life 40

Housing Communities & Sport Quality of Life

Libraries Archives Museum Heritage Arts

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Finance and Water Services

Airgeadas agus Seiribhísí Uisce

This Directorate ensures that the financial management of the Council is carried out in an efficient and timely manner, compliant with all relevant legislation, and that all of the activities and programmes of the Council represent good value for money for all the citizens of Louth. Other responsibilities include Motor Tax and Water Services. Cintíonn an Stiúrthóireacht seo go bhfuil bainistíocht airgeadas an Chomhairle déanta ar bhealach éifeachtach agus tráthúil, comhlíontach leis an dlí ábhartha, agus go bhfuil luach ar airgead bainte as gach gníomhaíocht agus clár ag an gComhairle, thar ceann shaoránaigh Lú. Ina chuid den freagrachtaí eile ná Mótarcháin agus Seirbhísí Uisce. Bernie Woods Director / Stiúrthóir

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Finance Expenditure to 30th September 2020

Section

ACTUAL EXPENDITURE

TO 30/09/20

BUDGET EXPENDITURE

2020 % SPENT TO

30/09/20

Housing 21,804,051 31,054,362 70%

Road Transportation & Safety 14,380,137 24,658,931 58%

Water Services 4,735,058 6,880,763 69%

Development Management 19,532,864 15,406,198 127%

Environmental Services 11,820,486 17,909,198 66%

Recreation and Amenity 5,075,531 8,977,175 57%

Agriculture, Education, Health & Welfare 679,281 1,155,725 59%

Miscellaneous 4,605,077 11,287,241 41%

82,632,485 117,329,593 70%

Income to 30th September 2020

Section

ACTUAL INCOME TO

30/09/20

BUDGET INCOME

2020 % INVOICED TO 30/09/20

Housing 22,877,117 32,619,264 70%

Road Transportation & Safety 3,181,310 14,839,597 21%

Water Services 4,137,395 6,635,582 62%

Development Management 13,776,312 9,398,454 147%

Environmental Services 1,220,018 1,951,548 63%

Recreation and Amenity 678,774 949,802 71%

Agriculture, Education, Health & Welfare 310,283 448,592 69%

Miscellaneous 2,607,046 5,183,306 50%

Rates 35,437,457 35,437,250 100%

General Purpose Grant (LPT) 9,866,198 9,866,198 100%

94,091,908 117,329,593 80%

The above is the current position as at the 30th September 2020. The allocation of the Central Management Charge is estimated in the above figures as the allocation is not completed till mid-

month. The full rates demand for 2020 is included in the above figure.

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Collection rates as at 30th September 2020 are as follows:

Debtors as at 30th September 2020

Opening Balance Invoices Receipts Write Offs

Closing Balance

Government Debtors 7,433,972 79,513,048 (74,736,552) (8,285) 12,202,183

Other Local Authorities 86,132 373,027 (269,289) 0 189,870

Rates 8,931,758 35,437,457 (15,068,759) 0 29,300,456

Rents 3,120,601 9,165,195 (9,386,484) (14,120) 2,885,192

Loans 329,693 1,108,791 (1,147,306) 0 291,178

Development Levies 13,162,422 2,071,424 (1,643,326) (307,391) 13,283,129

Fire Charges 670,967 427,786 (214,479) 0 884,274

Miscellaneous 1,861,317 5,681,806 (5,294,468) (2,086) 2,246,569

TOTAL DEBTORS 35,596,862 133,778,534 (107,760,663) (331,882) 61,282,851

Above is the debtor balances as at the 30th September 2020. The Miscellaneous debtor figure includes the Irish Water SLA recoupments, Corporate, Community & Enterprise, LEO, Planning, Enforcement, Environment, Sports, Vets, Arts, Roads, Library, Museum and Finance miscellaneous billings. Covid-19 We continue to track the effect Covid-19 has had on our income and expenditure in 2020. We are still awaiting clarification of the funding from central government and will report on it when details are received. Discussions are still on-going between the CCMA the Department and DPER with regard to the two business cases on the loss of income and additional Covid related costs for the local authorities to the Department. Covid-19 – Rates Waiver The Government announced that, in order to enhance the supports available for Enterprise, and in recognition of the fact that not only have rate-payers been forced to close businesses due to public health requirement but many others who remained open have suffered a reduction in turnover, the rates Waiver will be extended to a duration of six months to the end of September. They have stated that the exchequer will fully fund this initiative. A 100% waiver will automatically be applied for the six month period with a small number of exceptions. The excluded categories are mainly utilities, banks, large supermarkets and corporates.

We are hoping to receive the first instalment of the waiver from the Department in the coming week. We continue to deal with our rate customers on a case by case basis and we urge rate payers that are experiencing difficulties at this time to contact the rates department without delay. Covid-19 – Business Restart Grant Plus The Government’s Business Restart Grant Plus is up and running. The grant payable under the Restart Grant Plus is the amount of a business’ rates assessment for 2019 (excluding arrears), with the maximum grant available rising to €25,000 (up from €10,000) and the minimum will be €4,000 (up from €2,000). Firms that accessed the Restart Grant will be eligible to apply for a second top-up payment to a total combined value of the revised minimum and maximum grant levels. The criteria for accessing the scheme will include Enterprises that have:

250 employees or less; Turnover of less than €100,000 per

employee; and Reduced turnover by 25% as a result of

COVID-19

The updated application form and frequently asked questions are available on our website. The Grant is a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and reconnecting with employees and customers. The grant can be used to defray ongoing fixed costs, e.g. utilities,

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insurance, refurbishment or for measures to ensure employee and customer safety. To date over €10 million has been paid out to rate- payers in County Louth over the two Restart Grant schemes. Budget 2021 Work continues on the preparation of the Draft Budget for 2021. It is a difficult process to balance the budget while providing as much as possible for each of the services the council provides within the normal restrictions on our income sources. Budget 2021 will also have the added complexity of the impact Covid will continue to have on our income streams, especially in the area of rates and pay parking. We will also need to provide for additional costs in relation to Covid. We are still waiting for clarification from Central Government on any additional funding that may be available to local authorities to compensate for these, and hope to have this clarification in the coming weeks. Budget 2021 – Budgetary Plan Meetings The Municipal and Borough Draft Budgetary Plan meetings are scheduled to take place on Monday the 19th of October as follows: Dundalk MD Council Chamber 9.00am Drogheda BD Railway Room East/West 9.30am Ardee MD St. Gerard’s Hall following the normal monthly Council Meeting. Budget 2021 Meeting The date for the Budget meeting has been set for the 16th of November 2020 following the normal monthly Council meeting.

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Water Services Note – it is expected that progress of capital schemes and delivery of some services will experience further delays as a result of restrictions due to Covid-19. Water Quality Intensive monitoring of water supplies in the County is carried out continually by the EPA on behalf of Louth County Council. Water Conservation Water conservation is on-going throughout the County. Capital Programmes Irish Water refers to the different phases of a capital project as Gates 1, 2, 3 or 4. Gate 1 - Concept Design, Gate 2 - Detailed design, contract documents, planning and procurement, Gate 3 - Construction stage, Gate 4 - Snagging, sign off.

Water Major Infrastructure Projects Drogheda Water Main Rehabilitation Project complete and closed Section 1 Feb 2019, Section 2 was expected in March 2020.

Minor snagging still to be progressed.

Interim Payment (final) approved by IW.

Final workshop still outstanding, update

requested from IW.

No change for September 2020.

Staleen Drogheda Water Supply Scheme WTP The plant is currently in its 1 year Operations Service Period. Cavanhill Dundalk Water Supply Scheme WTP The 28 day testing phase was started on 12th June 2020, and was completed on 16th July 2020. The 7 day test on sludge press completed 7th August

2020. The Commercial agreement was signed 27th July 2020. The start of the 1 year Operations Service Period is dependent on the date of issue of the Commissioning Cert. This is a Contractual matter between IW and their contractor. Tallanstown Rationalisation Project Project as reported in August.

Waste Water Major Infrastructure Projects Ardee Sewage Scheme Upgrade WWTP The Official date of Operating Period commenced on 23rd December 2019. The Operating Period will cease 22nd December 2020 with handover to LCC to commence 22nd December 2020. The 3 Month shadowing period for LCC Caretaker commenced on the 23rd September 2020. The Contractor has submitted a proposed training programme for LCC staff, this is under review. Local Network Reinforcing – Dundalk Motts Current position as reported in August. Local Network Reinforcing – Drogheda Motts Current position as reported in August. North Drogheda - Atkins Note this project in advancement of Drogheda LNRP to address the immediate planned development for North of Drogheda.

Draft Feasibility Review complete.

Detailed assessment in progress.

Workshop 2 completed.

In progress, continuing to liaise with consultants. Dundalk DAP (Drainage Area Plan) (Arups)

Stage 2 Workshop complete

Stage 3 is underway – Risk Assessment which will look at the short term and long

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term strategic models and identifies the deficiencies in the network.

Stage 3 to be completed by end of year. Workshop 3 scheduled for Nov 2020.

In progress, awaiting dates for workshop. Dundalk East Strategic Network (Atkins) Note this project is in advancement of DAP and is to review the Coe’s Road RM and PS.

Workshop 2 complete. DFR (draft Feasibility

Report).

Screening of various options completed with

conclusion of upgrade to existing PS and

new Rising main (4route selections).

Current report to be updated from

Workshop inputs.

All routes and options forwarded to LCC

roads for provision of any comments of their

roads programme.

In progress – liaising with Operations on route selection. Coe’s Road Pumping Station (Arups) This project is in advancement of the Dundalk East Strategic Network to accommodate the proposed developments.

Arups have completed the report with

options outlined for 2020 / 2021

developments and further developments.

2020/2021 developments can be

accommodated by operational measures at

PS and cleaning of 1350mm sewer.

EPS have implemented the changes

recommended.

IW reviewing options and funding available

for cleaning of sewer.

Further development will require upgrading of

pumps (330l/s to 440l/s). Beyond this a new

R.Main will be required and falls back to

Dundalk East Strategic Network Project.

Changes are working satisfactorily. Currently liaising with IW on cleaning options for existing sewers.

St. Helena Project UK contractor and issues with travelling have project on hold. Covid restrictions are delaying contractor. Omeath Sewage Scheme WWTP ECI Project – Employers Rep: Mace, Contractor: Veolia, Contractor Consultant: Nicholas O’Dwyer

PCI cost agreed with Veolia. Currently Veolia are progressing detailed design with FRA.

Site Investigation recommenced with boreholes complete, slit trenches on-going.

Omeath Project to accommodate the revised storm tank sizing associated with SWELL project. Both interlinked.

Programme has slipped with expected dates now

o Project Delivery Instruction Jan 2021 o Construction to commence April

2021 o Project completion May 2022

Workshop 4 – Review of Final Design Proposals Sept/Oct 202. LCC to be invited.

Planning approval and sizing of tanks at plant currently under review.

Plant being reviewed to look at summer peak.

Following workshop 4, progressing updated design for review. SWELL Note interlinked with Omeath WWTP Project. Omeath network linked with Donegal Project.

Sizing of Storm Storage complete and to be included into Omeath WWTP Project.

Current Milestones for SWELL o Main Procurement, Evaluation and

Award Q3/Q4 2020. o Commencement of Construction Q1

2021 o Complete Stage 3 Q4 2021.

Sewer rehabilitation works have been scoped and included in the contract documents

In progress, Donegal County Council is the lead authority on this project.

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Regional Sewer Network Rehabilitation

At survey stage (Contractor USSR), 100% complete but some lines require cleaning & this is on-going, and small civil work required for 2 buried manholes in Drogheda area.

Approximately 4km of network, Castlebellingham, Dundalk & Drogheda.

Sewers to be prioritised for consideration for future rehab project.

Capital Programmes – Minor Projects Tinure WWTP

Venturi aerator installed Q2, 2020.

Flap Valves to be completed

Snagging to be completed

IW requested date return from contractor –

still outstanding

Liaising with IW re completion of outstanding snags. Clogherhead PS and Rising Main

Project on hold, FI requested, IW to make

decision regarding progress.

Project subject to budgetary constraints

Carlingford & Blackrock WWTP FBDA (advanced works to accommodate additional capacity) Carlingford

Complete

MLSS and DO’s readings to be reviewed via different contract

IW and LCC HSQE inspection complete.

Training complete

Project now complete Blackrock

Practical Completion has been reached with

respect to contractor, Conways.

Pre-Ops HSQE to be undertaken

Substantially complete and operational.

Water Networks Water Networks Programme

Rehabilitation Programme Work commenced in September 2020 on the following schemes:

Upper Old Hill, Drogheda –125mm dia HDPE main – (Stimulus Budget) and

Pitchers Hill, Drogheda – 125mm dia HDPE main – (BAU Budget)

Lead replacement / Back Yard Services Irish Water’s Contractors carried out BYS in Louth.

PRV Program 4 new pressure reducing valves were approved by Irish Water in September under the Stimulus Budget at the following locations. Works to be undertaken by LCC Crews before end on 2020 Muchgrange, Rathcore, Omeath and Baltray.

First Fix 21 Investigative works were carried out in Drogheda at various locations. Find & Fix No find and fix type repairs were undertaken by Irish Water contractors in September. Metering 7 new DMA meters were approved by Irish Water in September under the Stimulus Budget at the following locations. Greenmount, 2 in Stickillen, Rath North, 2 in Rath South and Ballymascanlon. The works are to be undertaken by LCC Crews before the end of 2020. Water Scouring Programme 2020 Network scouring was undertaken in Dundalk at the following locations – Armagh Rd, Newry Rd, Bay Estate, Red Barns Rd, Shore Rd and Coe’s Rd.

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Network Maintenance 58 essential water repairs were carried out in September. Planning & Water Connections The Networks Section processed 14 new connections, 11 Pre Connection Enquiries and 29 Planning Applications in September. Service Maps The Networks Section prepared 40 Service Maps in

September.

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Planning, Infrastructure, and Economic Development Pleanáil, Bonneagar agus Forbairt Eacnamaíoch

This Directorate has three key areas of responsibility:

Planning, the way in which we organise the built environment in our county

Infrastructure, including our roads, bridges, and ports

Economic Development, including the Local Enterprise Office, and work involving partners and funding outside the state

Tá trí eochairfhreagracht ag an Stiúrthóireacht seo:

Is é Peanáil an slí a eagraímid an timpeallacht thógtha i gContae Lú

Bonneagar, ár mbóithre, ár ndroichid, agus ár gcalaphoirt san áireamh

Forbairt Eacnamaíoch, an Oifig Fiontair Áitiúl san áireamh, agus obair le comhpháirtithe agus foinsí maoinithe lasmuigh den Stát

Frank Pentony Director / Stiúrthóir

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Economic Development Louth Economic Forum At the last meeting of the Louth Economic Forum which took place on Wednesday 30th September, 2020 an update was given on Louth County Council’s Development Plan, Brexit and supports available under the July Stimulus Package, along with the usual updates on FDI, Indigenous Industry, Education & Training and Tourism & Heritage. The next meeting of the Louth Economic Forum will take place on Wednesday 25th November, 2020. Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme In 2016 Louth County Council launched the ‘Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme’ as part of their suite of Business Incentives. Due to the popularity of these grants the scheme is available for 2020 and is open to receive applications until 5pm on the 20th November, 2020. There has been great interest in this scheme with 50 applications received to date. Details of the Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme are available on: https://www.louthcoco.ie/en/services/economic-development/business-incentive-schemes-retail-prospectus/shopfront-improvement-grant-scheme-application-and-guidelines.pdf or you can request the Design Guidelines and Application Form by emailing shopfrontgrant@louthcoco.ie. Age Friendly Business Initiative Pilot Scheme – Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk The businesses involved in this initiative completed the Age Friendly Business Information / Training workshop by Dr. Emer Coveney, National Programme Manager, Age Friendly Ireland on Wednesday 16th September, 2020. Age Friendly Charters have now been circulated to the businesses to complete which asks them to identify an in-store “Champion for Age-Friendliness and Older Customers” and to list 3

commitments / changes they are going to make in their business to become Age Friendly. Tourism sea louth scenic seafood trail The virtual launch of sea louth, scenic seafood trail was postponed due to the number of Covid-19 cases in Co. Louth. It is hoped that this initiative will be virtually launched on www.visitlouth.ie and on the various social media platforms in the coming weeks. ‘sea louth’ has been awarded €40,000 under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme 2020 / Accelerated Measures Fund for the installation of Interpretive Panels at the 14 scenic viewpoint locations. Feasibility Study to identify and recommend a Destination Attractor / Visitor Experience for Drogheda Consultants have been appointed and a contract was issued on the 24th August, 2020. The duration of this contract is for a 6 month period. Further updates will be given over the course of this contract. Promoting Louth as part of Fáilte Ireland’s #makeabreakforit Campaign Louth County Council are currently liaising with Fáilte Ireland on promoting Louth as part of its #makeabreakforit campaign. The marketing campaign will also be rolling out Digital and Print advertising in the coming weeks with a view to promoting Louth as a destination for Domestic Tourists along Ireland’s Ancient East. With a view to maximizing exposure in this campaign Louth Tourism Businesses have been contacted and asked to update / register their business listings on the Discover Ireland website, to sign up to the Fáilte Ireland Safety Charter at www.failteireland.ie and to join the social campaign online using the #makeabreakforit tag when sharing their posts, events and offers. Promotional Video for Louth #wherefamiliesreconnect

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Following on from the success of this promotional video for Louth, Dundalk Chamber of Commerce in association with Drogheda Chamber of Commerce, Louth Tourism Networking Committee and Louth County Council has commenced work on a second promotional video for Louth. Fáilte Ireland – Destination Towns Capital Investment Programme The contract for Design and Management consultancy for Drogheda’s new Wayfinding and Signage project has been published on eTenders. The bespoke new signage for visitor information and orientation is part of the Fáilte Ireland Destination Towns programme. The proposed signage will be focused on streets from Magdalene Tower to Millmount and from Westgate to St. Laurence’s Gate in Drogheda town centre. The deadline for the return of Tenders is the 2nd November, 2020. Fáilte Ireland COVID-19 Supports Fáilte Ireland has set up a COVID-19 Business Support Hub on their corporate website https://covid19.failteireland.ie/ which provides details of a number of financial and liquidity supports available for businesses in the tourism sector along with operating procedures, guidelines and the latest available updates and expert advice for this sector. Fáilte Ireland COVID-19 Adaptation Fund Fáilte Ireland has launched the COVID-19 Adaptation Fund for the Re-Opening of Tourism & Hospitality Businesses to help businesses who have incurred adaptation costs in order to re-open safely in line with Fáilte Ireland Guidelines for Re-opening. The closing date for receipt of applications is Saturday 31st October, 2020. For further information or to apply go to www.failteireland.ie/covid-19-adaptation-fund.aspx. LEO Louth COVID-19 Business Supports

Updated information on the range of business supports available can be found at: www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Response. Businesses applying for support from LEO Louth should email: info@leo.louthcoco.ie. Micro-Enterprise Assistance Fund

This newly launched grant fund provides a contribution towards the cost of re-opening or keeping a business operational and reconnecting with employees and customers. Grants of a minimum of €500 to a maximum of €1,000 in respect of vouched expenditure. This scheme is suitable for micro-entrepreneurs who are not eligible for the COVID-19 Restart / Restart Plus Grant or similar COVID-19 business restart grants. Further details are available at: https://micro-enterpriseassistance.ie/. COVID-19 Business Continuity Voucher 592 applications were received for the Business Continuity Voucher Scheme which closed on the 15th May. These have all been processed, and over 448 vouchers have been approved to date with most of the remaining businesses appointed mentors to assist their continuity plans. This helps small business owners to receive professional advice to develop short and long term strategies to respond to the challenges of COVID-19.

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Business Advice Clinics 49 business advice appointments were provided by telephone and video conference to entrepreneurs throughout the County during September. Total number of Business Advice Clinic appointments from January to September is 342. Business Training

113 businesses participated in business training workshops during September. The Autumn / Winter Training Schedule is now available. All Courses and Workshops will take place online. Upcoming Courses and Workshops for October include:

Brexit: Preparing Your Business for Customs & Trade with Third Countries

Start Your Own Business Programme

Introduction for Social Media for Business

Trading Online Workshop Further details are available at: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Louth/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/. Trading Online Vouchers

An enhanced Trading Online Voucher scheme was launched on the 8th April, under which LEO can provide 90% support up to a maximum grant

of €2,500 to micro-enterprises. 27 applications were received during September bringing the total number of applications in 2020 to 312. LEO Louth Mentor Programme The Mentor Programme is designed to match up the knowledge, skills, insights and entrepreneurial capability of experienced business practitioners with small business owner / managers who need practical and strategic one-to-one advice and guidance.

26 businesses were appointed Mentors during the month of September. COVID-19 Microfinance Ireland Business Loan

Microfinance Ireland re-opened for applications on the 31st August. Standard loan packages remain unchanged; there are a couple of key changes with the new COVID-19 Loan Fund. These changes were introduced by the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment, following a review of the first COVID-19 Loan Fund, taking into account the additional financial supports that are now available for small businesses and with the aim of supporting as many small businesses as possible with the financial support they need. The new loan scheme will consist of up to €25,000 available with zero repayments and zero

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interest for the first 6 months and the equivalent of an additional 6 months interest-free subject to certain terms and conditions*

Maximum loan amount is €25,000 for all applicants (New)

First 6 months – interest free and zero repayments (No change)

Interest Rate – 4.5% APR for LEO Applications and 5.5% APR for Direct Applications (No change)

Capital & Interest Repayments commence in Month 7 (No change)

*Government Rebate for interest paid in Months 7 – 12 of loan (making an equivalent of 12 months interest free), subject to all loan repayments being made in months 7-12 of the loan.

This rebate will be paid automatically to business bank account in Month 13 of the loan (New)

LEO Louth offers full expert assistance to clients to assist the completion of the Microfinance Loan Application, Business Plan and Cashflow Projections. eCommerce Cluster A North East eCommerce Cluster managed by the 4 NE LEOs, funded under EI’s Competitive Funds programme has commenced. 9 Louth companies have been recruited to avail of the enhanced digital consultancy support to help build their online business and sales. Food Academy

The current national Food Academy programme commenced in July with 4 Louth businesses participating. Brexit supports A full range of Brexit supports to help small business is offered by LEO Louth, all information can be found at: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Louth/Brexit/

LEO Louth Client Portfolio Review LEO Louth’s client engagement programme commenced in May and will run to the end of 2020. The programme is aimed at supporting and progressing portfolio clients to develop their growth potential in the market. A key aspect of the project is working with client businesses most at risk from the economic impacts of Covid and

Brexit and to ensure maximum uptake of LEO Covid and Brexit supports. LEAN for Micro Programme LEO Louth continues to offer the

LEAN Programme to small businesses locally. The programme helps businesses to identify issues and potential improvement areas and provides support to implement these as well as achieve savings and improvements in capability and capacity to deliver. Businesses with an interest in improving competitiveness should contact LEO Louth to discuss how both the LEAN Programme and the LEAN Network can be of assistance. PLATO The Louth group of the PLATO Management Development programme continues with 11 local businesses participating. Co-Innovate Programme

Final clients on the Co-Innovate programme continue to engage with the programme to assist them in embedding innovation in their business.

European Relations Peace IV Programme

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COVID – 19 Due to the Public Health Crisis in Ireland with the spread of the Coronavirus, most Peace IV projects in Louth quickly moved to online delivery to continue with implementation. We are pleased to see that so many projects are emerging from the restrictions and adopting novel ways of working so that meaningful and safe contact can occur for their participants, thereby ensuring the continuation of their services. Creative Interventions The PEACE IV funded Creative Interventions is working closely with the community in Muirhevnamor as an identified target group of the local Peace Programme. One identified area of need was the young people of the area especially after the COVID lockdown period in 2020. The Creative Interventions Project organised a positive thinking course and a creative course in September 2020. The young people themselves came up with the idea to paint a mural in Clann Naofa Boxing Club. The Boxing Club represents a positive local centre for discipline, health and fitness and provides a sense of community for the young people. The Mural Project built on this. A growing body of research has positively identified murals with social, cultural and economic benefits as well as positive mental health through group work and increased creativity. Murals also offer accessibility to art and creative expression as well as promoting a sense of identical, belonging and attachment. This mural is inclusive as it also welcomes minority groups as a key component in the mural.

Creative Interventions Project

Engagement & Signposting Project The project provides a mobile, specialist outreach service to reach out to groups of young people (16 - 24 year olds) at risk on weekend nights, engage with them around their risk behaviours and signpost supports and opportunities that are available to them. The project hosted three cross community days, the young people met with, via Zoom, a nationalist, loyalist and ex British army soldier. The young people heard why they got involved, their thoughts on how things are now and their thoughts about the other communities within Northern Ireland. Young People got to ask questions from each speaker. Detached youth workers got back on the streets in July with young people. The main topic of conversation was the leaving certificate, college and how the young people dealt with the Lockdown. It is cross community as there are young people from different religious backgrounds living in the same geographical community.

Engagement & Signposting Project - Social distancing at its best!

Infrastructure Roads Projects Clanbrassil Street / St. Nicholas Quarter The official opening was held on the 15th September, 2020. The Stage 3 Road Safety Audit has been signed off and issued to the Dundalk MD members via Decision Time. Minor issues have been identified within the RSA including line marking revision as Laurels junction, the volume of audible warning at pedestrian crossing point, etc. These additional items will be completed in the coming weeks.

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Offical Opening

Narrow Water Bridge CPO Submissions accepted by Dept. of Infrastructure, Planning NI for pre-commencement compliance. Culvert works carried out adjacent to A2 Roundabout, Warrenpoint. N53 - Dundalk to Castleblayney Road Phase 4. HBX to Rassan The Route Option Report is available online at www.louthcoco.ie. Tenders for site investigation have been received and a contractor is appointed. Investigation works will commence shortly. Geophysical archaeological is substantially complete. Preliminary design is ongoing. Subject to approval by TII it is envisaged that a Part 8 process will commence by the end of Q4 of 2020. N2 Ardee to Castleblayney Collaboration with Monaghan County Council (as Lead Authority) continues to progress the scheme. The Emerging Preferred Route Corridor for the N2 Ardee to Castleblayney was published on the project website on the 24th August, 2020, and a virtual consultation experience is available via

https://n2.virtualeventspace.io

The six week Public Consultation will be completed on the 5th October, 2020. The design team is encouraging the public and the Members to submit feedback on the Emerging Preferred Route Corridor by the 5th October, 2020. Submissions can be made through the online

public consultation experience, by email, or by Freepost. A feedback form can be downloaded from: www.N2MonaghanLouth.ie. Submissions can be made electronically via the virtual consultation experience accessed from the project website

www.N2MonaghanLouth.ie

by email:

ArdeeCastleblayney@N2MonaghanLouth.ie

or by Freepost: FREEPOST N2 Ardee to Castleblayney Road Scheme, Monaghan County Council, County Offices, The Glen, Co. Monaghan, H18 YT50.

Public Consultation

N52 Ardee Bypass The technical review of the junctions on the scheme is ongoing. The first non statutory public consultation took place in Ardee Community Centre on the 5th March. All Submissions are now being considered and the consultant is carrying out an appraisal of the options. A junction strategy report is now being finalised and a second public consultation will be announced shortly in accordance with the Covid-19 Roadmap. TII HD 15 Safety Works: King William’s Glen Tullyallen, N51 Works to increase the stagger at the Junction are now substantially completed.

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New Junction Alignment

Park and Share / Park and Ride Pilot Scheme The Part 8 for the scheme was approved by Dundalk MD on the 7th July. Site Investigation is now completed. Archaeology Investigation contractor has been appointed and due to commence. Land transfer will now be completed. Tenders for the works were received on the 30th September and are to be assessed. TII HD17 Schemes Site inspections have been carried out at priority locations on National Roads including the N33 and the Funshog Junction on the N2, in conjunction with TII Safety Section. Feasibility and Options reports will now be prepared and will be forwarded to the TII for their review and approval in due course. A Feasibility and Options Report for Public Lighting Remedial Works has been forwarded to the TII for their review and approval for 3 No. locations on the N2. N2 Collon North Pavement Scheme A contractor has been appointed and works have commenced on resurfacing a 3km section of the N2 north of Collon.

N2 Overlay: Laying Binder Layer

Port Access Northern Cross Route Land Acquisition ongoing. Fencing completed at R132. Fill material being stockpiled, for embankment use. Existing ESB 38kv line has been diverted. Further funding sources being sought, an application for URDF Funding Round 2 has been lodged, and we await a decision on this funding application. Recreation & Amenity Projects Carlingford Lough Greenway - Omeath to Newry (Joint project with Newry, Mourne and Down

District Council and East Border Region) After the deferral of the planning decision on the Part 8 application for Section II of the Greenway a workshop with the Members was facilitated on the 8th September. A special meeting of the Dundalk Municipal District was held on the 21st

September, where the Part 8 was approved. Discussion with the landowners will now commence regarding accessing the land for the project.

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The major planning application has been submitted in Northern Ireland for Section III of the Greenway from the national border to Victoria Lock and a decision is expected in Q1 of 2021. Tenders have been invited for the site investigation works for Sections I, II and III of the Greenway. Work onsite is expected to commence in Q4 of 2020. The consultant is progressing with detailed design for the project. Landowner discussions are ongoing and they are being kept updated on the project developments. The project partners are continuing to meet on a monthly basis to review and assess the various aspects of the project. An application for additional funding for the Greenway has been made to SEUPB, with a decision due in Q4 of 2020. Greenway - Carlingford to Templetown On the 29th July the Minister announced €200,000 allocation towards the design and planning of the extension of the Greenway from Carlingford to Templetown taking in Greenore. The funding was allocated under the Carbon Tax Fund 2020 and provides support for feasibility, planning and design for Greenways around the country. A brief for the appointment of consultants is currently being prepared. Meath County Council Boyne Greenway - Drogheda to Mornington The submission period closed on the 11th September, 2020. An Bord Pleanála will now consider the scheme and submissions received. Dundalk Municipal Athletics Grass Track

Community Sports Section applied and received funding for circa €92k for works. Infrastructure, using the €92k to carry out works in terms of site investigations, topo survey and earth works to bring the track to a level grassed surface for use as a grass track. Site Clearance has completed. Tenders have been received and a contractor is currently being appointed. LiHAF Projects LIHAF Access Road at Newtown, Drogheda Engaging with the Department and the Developer. Contract documents are substantially complete and ready for tender, subject to the Departments approval. Site investigations are now completed. Tenders for Archaeological excavation contract are being assessed. An Bord Pleanála decision to grant the SHD for 450 housing units has been overturned in Judicial Review. The developer is preparing a revised SHD proposal. LIHAF Mount Avenue Improvement The Oral hearing in to the CPO was held on the 3rd March. The CPO has been approved by ABP on the 23rd June. Landowner engagement is ongoing. Atkins Consultants are completing the detailed design and preparing contract documents. Topographical Survey now completed. AA screening report has been received. Ground Investigation is now complete. Archaeological test trenching contract is substantially complete. Accommodation works details and contract documents are being finalised. Safety Improvement Works Low Cost Safety Schemes Funding for 2020 allocation received by Operations. Detailed design works and costing estimates are progressing and ongoing on three pedestrian crossings.

Avenue Road - A recommendation has been made to appoint the successful contractor. Civil works will commence in October.

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Mary Street / Dublin Road, Drogheda - Works is substantially completed.

Blackrock Village - A recommendation has been made to appoint the successful contractor. Civil works will commence in October.

Ardee Pedestrian Crossing Feasibility and Options Report for the Refurbishment of the Pedestrian Lights on Castle Street, Ardee has been forwarded to the TII for their review and approval. Specific Bridge Improvement Grants Obelisk Bridge The various structural, environmental, archeological, and conservation surveys are now complete after having been on hold due to Covid restrictions. A Section 177AE Application has been submitted to An Bord Pleanála for approval of the proposed works in September. Closing date for submissions on the application is the 30th October, 2020 to ABP. Documents are currently on public display in Fair Street and Town Hall Offices or can be viewed at: www.louthcoco.ie/en/services/transportation-and-infrastructure/bridge-refurbishments. Preliminary Design ongoing with options report with cost estimates due by end of Q3 2020. An application for funding for the physical refurbishment work to the bridge will be made to DTTAS in early October.

St. Dominick’s Bridge, Drogheda The various structural, environmental, archeological, and conservation surveys are now

complete after having been on hold due to Covid restrictions. A Section 177AE application has been submitted to An Bord Pleanála for approval of the proposed works in September. Closing date for submissions on the application is the 30th October, 2020 to ABP. Documents are currently on public display in Fair Street and Town Hall Offices or can be viewed at: www.louthcoco.ie/en/services/transportation-and-infrastructure/bridge-refurbishments. Preliminary Design ongoing with options report with cost estimates due by end of Q3 2020. An application for funding for the physical refurbishment work to the bridge will be made to DTTAS in early October.

Town & Village Renewal Blackrock Footpaths Tenders have been received and a contractor has been appointed. Works are programmed to commence in the coming weeks. Corporate Projects Ardee Castle The specialist tourism company has completed a scoping study on proposed use of the building. Findings from the scoping study are being reviewed in conjunction with the appointed design team to assess any possible impact on the works. Currently a flexible use model is being considered. The appointed design team are reviewing initial design works as well as continuing building investigations, especially into the Judge’s Chambers building.

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Temporary support structure has been installed in the Judge’s Chambers building to address health and safety concerns. RRDF funding continues to be drawn down.

Redevelopment Fair Street Offices, Drogheda Detailed design work continues on Phase 1. Disability Access Certificate and Fire Certification were submitted in August. In order to facilitate new requirements for Near Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) the ESB now require an ESB substation to be incorporated into the proposed service yard. This requires an amendment to the existing Part 8. This amendment for ESB substation is on public display in Fair Street Offices until the 23rd October with submissions accepted until the 6th November. Further details can be viewed: https://www.louthcoco.ie/en/services/transportation-and-infrastructure/drogheda-civic-offices.

Tenders to pre-qualify Contractors will be received on the 5th October. Depending on Covid-19 implications Construction works are programmed to commence Q1/Q2 of 2021.

Rural Regeneration and Development Fund Ardee 2040 Approvals from the Dept. have been issued and brief for the appointment of consultants is currently being prepared. Contract documentation is out to Tender (OJEU); Tenders were received on the 29th July and will now be assessed. Carlingford Rural Regeneration Funding has been approved in principle, verification documents concerning the project were submitted at the end of July to the Department. A brief for the appointment of consultants is currently being prepared. Urban Regeneration and Development Fund Projects Long Walk (Dundalk) Approvals from the Dept. have been issued; meetings are to be held with third party stakeholders to enable a brief for the appointment of consultants to be prepared. Head of terms of agreement is currently with the third party stakeholder for signing. West Gate Vision (Drogheda) Tender for the appointment of a Consultant for the project was published on OJEU. 3 Tenders were received on the 3rd August and are currently being assessed. Flooding General Catchment based Flood Risk Assessment & Management Study (CFRAM) Dundalk and Ardee Flood Defence Projects Contract signing for the appointment of a Consultant took place on the 30th July. The Minister, Mr. Patrick O’ Donovan TD, and the OPW were also in attendance. Stage 1 of the Project has now commenced, i.e. Options Assessment, Scheme Development and Design Part 1.

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Contract signing for the appointment of Consultants Dundalk

and Ardee Flood Defence Project

Drogheda & Baltray Flood Defence Projects Tender Docs for the appointment of consultants are currently being developed for this scheme and it’s envisaged to go to Tender by the end of October, subject to OPW approval. Carlingford and Greenore Flood Defence Project OPW have commenced a data review of the Carlingford and Greenore Flood Defence Project to reappraise the Options identified in the Flood Risk Management Plan. The data review will include additional rainfall data collection and modeling. Dunleer Flood Risk Management Plan Flood Risk Management Plan Final Report completed. OPW have now confirmed that they will examine the Project with a view to delivering the proposed Works themselves. Marine Projects Coastal Erosion Study Funding received for Salterstown and Seabank Coastal Erosion works. Design works. LCC have now received planning consent under Section 177AE of the Planning Regulations from An Bord Pleanála subject to compliance with a number of Conditions. Compliance with these Conditions will require provision of Specialist Services and LCC have now applied to OPW for the additional funding required to provide them. Balmers Bog Surface Water Pipe OPW has approved funding, €668,571, for these works to be undertaken in advance of the

Dundalk Flood Relief Scheme. Consultant has been appointed and has commenced detailed design and contract documents are near completion and it is proposed to go to Tender subject to the wayleave being agreed. Wayleave negotiations are ongoing with the two landowners, CIE and Dundalk Grammar School, and it is hoped that they will brought to a conclusion to allow procurement of Contractors to commence in Q4 2020. Annagassan Harbour Consultation has taken place with National Parks and Wildlife Service and the EPA due to the proximity of Annagassan Harbour to two Natura 2000 sites (Dundalk Bat SAC and Dundalk Bay SPA). Due to the nature of the works involved a full EIA may be required. Estimated cost further investigations up to €135,000 if full EIS is required. No funding available Schools Programme Projects Replacement School for St. Itas and St. Marys Site acquired. Dept of Education to submit a planning application. Ardee E.T.N.S. Approval to go to tender issued by Department of Education. Expressions of interest have now been received and a shortlist of contractors to whom tenders will be issued is being finalised. A contract to carry out the advanced works for ESB & Bord Gáis, is substantially complete. Coláiste Chú Chulainn and Park at Marshes Lower, Dundalk Snagging of emergency lighting ongoing, additional snagging in relation to landscaping and other items to be completed also. Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project (PLEEP) A Section 85 Agreement between Kilkenny County Council and Louth County Council has been agreed.

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Design and preparation of the tender documents will commence in November 2020. A final cost estimate for the element of works in Co. Louth will be carried out during the design process, and this will inform the financial loan required by LCC. Subject to Approval of a loan for the works by the Members and subsequent approval by the Housing Finance Agency it is proposed to go to tender at the end of Q4 of 2020. TII Lighting Upgrade Collon / Adree Lighting designs are being completed and it’s envisaged that all designs including with prices will be received in August. Subject to times delivery of lanterns installation commence by the end of September beginning of October.

Planning Development Management The Planning service indicators for Louth County Council for the month of August 2020 are given below in tabular form. There were 96 planning applications received during the month of August of which 80 were valid. In addition there were 26 responses received during the month to requests for further information and 27 Pre-Planning Applications received. The service indicator figures in relation to planning decisions and decisions on appeals made during the month, broken down by category, and with a total figure for all categories (Column F), are given below:

(A)

Description

(B)

Housing Developments

(C)

Individual Houses

(D)

Other applications-not requiring EIA

(E)

Other applications- requiring EIA

(F)

Total for all categories of development in County Area

(i) Number of applications determined

(ii) No. of decisions determined which required further information

(iii) Percentage of applications refused

(iv) Number of appeals determined

(v) Percentage of decisions overturned on appeal

4

3

25% (1)

0

0% (0)

20

12

30% (6)

0

0% (0)

45

13

15.56% (7)

1

0% (0)

0

0

0% (0)

0

0% (0)

69

28

20% (14)

1

0% (0)

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Forward Planning Draft County Development Reports

Draft Environmental Reports Issued

Draft Retail Strategy Issued

Draft Housing Strategy Issued

Draft Louth County Development Plan 2021 – 2027

Two further workshops held on Draft Plan on 9th and 16th September respectively

Council Meeting 21st September

Adjourned Council meeting 23rd September

Adjourned Council meeting 30th September

Conservation Grants Schemes 2020 July stimulus package: additional financial supports for Built Heritage announced

1 application successful, of the two put forward to the Department for consideration in August. Applicant notified – awaiting confirmation of acceptance of grant offer.

Progress Report (No 2) issued to Department in respect of successful applicants under the BHIS/HSF 2020 schemes. Strategic Housing Developments (SHDs)

S247 pre-planning meeting held in respect of:

Haynestown, Dundalk

Stage 2 application lodged

Bridgegate, Rathgory, Ardee (awaiting validation by ABP)

Stage 3 application lodged

Lands at Dublin Road, Haggardstown

Final date for submissions to ABP – 5.30pm on 13th October 2020

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Planning Enforcement – Unauthorised Development The Planning indicators are given below in relation to Enforcement complaints regarding unauthorised developments received during the month.

Description

Enforcement in relation to unauthorised

development

Enforcement in relation to unauthorised

development

August

2020

Year to

Date

August

2019

Year to

Date

Number of Planning Enforcement Complaints Investigated

30 167 19 142

Number of Planning Enforcement cases received which didn’t require follow up

0 0 0 0

Number of cases closed / resolved through negotiation

6 129 25 134

Number of Warning letters issued 17 86 15 90

Number of Enforcement Notices issued 1 12 0 16

Number of cases referred for legal proceedings

0 4 0 13

Number of Injunctions 0 0 0 2

Number of Prosecutions 0 0 0 2

Planning Enforcement – Dangerous Structures The Planning indicators listed below are in relation to Notices Issued under the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Act, 1964 for the period July - September, 2020.

Description

Enforcement in relation to Dangerous Structures

July – Sept.

2020

Year to

Date

Number of Dangerous Structures Files opened 7

29

Number of Section 3 (1)(a) Notices – Directing Owner to carry out work 5

16

Number of Section 3(2)(b) Notices – LCC carry out works 0

0

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Number of Section 2 Notices – Dangerous Place 0

0

Number of cases closed 9

17

Number of cases referred for legal proceedings 0

5

Number of Prosecutions 0

0

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Operations and Waste Management

Oibríochtaí agus Bainistíocht Dramháil This Directorate provides a range of services which underpin the efficient and smooth running of the economic and social life of our county, working to ensure our environment adheres to legislative standards, and to provide clean and safe parks throughout Louth. Responsibilities include:

Road Maintenance, Wardens Service, Waste Management, Water Quality, and Climate Action

Cuireann an Stiúthóireacht seo réimse seirbhísí ar fáil mar bhonn agus mar thaca ag an reachtáil éifeachtúil an saol eacnamaíochta agus sóisialta Chontae Lú, ag obair i dtreo comhlíonadh an dlí maidir leis an timpeallacht, agus chun páirceanna phoiblí glan agus sábháilte a chinntiú. Ina chuid den freagrachtaí ná:

Cothabháil Bóithre, an tSeiribhís Maorachta, Bainistíocht Dramháil, Cáilíocht Uisce, agus Gníomh Aeráide

Catherine Duff

Director / Stiúrthóir

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Municipal District of Dundalk Dundalk Area Road resurfacing works were carried out on the Castletown Road, Quay Street and the Inner Relief Road Roundabout at Hoey’s Lane as part of the 2020 Road Works Programme.

Inner Relief Road Roundabout

Castletown Road, Dundalk

Quay Street

Road, footpath and kerb repairs were carried out on Park Street, The Demesne, The Long Walk and Centenary Way Traffic Light controller was upgraded at the Avenue Road and Tom Bellew Avenue junction. A large quantity of Illegally-dumped rubbish was removed from the Doylesfort Road. General maintenance of signage, gullies, barriers, drains, verges, etc continues. Repairs continue on Traffic Lights, Bollards, Barriers, and Signage damaged by vehicular collisions, etc. Customer Services queries are replied to as required and subsequent works carried out. Maintenance continues on the Public Parks, also including Hedge/Verge and Tree Pruning in the remaining Public Areas. Litter picking, emptying bins & street sweeping continues on a daily basis. Maintenance of the public foul and storm sewerage network continues with blockages and flooding being cleared as required. CIS completed at Drumkeith, Inniskeen.

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Blackrock and Faughart Area Works carried out in September were mainly connected to drainage maintenance, tar patching, drainage improvement works, road signage repairs/maintenance and verge maintenance. Tar patching & pothole repairs were carried out at Lennonstown Kilcurry, Carrickrobin, Cavananore, Deerpark, Balregan, Rock Road Blackrock, Jonesborough Road, Balrobin, Hackballscross to Maghereagh Cross to Mullabohy Cross, Stephenstown and Clermont Road Haggardstown. Drainage improvement schemes were completed at Lurgankeel/Lennonstown and at Whitemills, Faughart.

Lennonstown

Whitemills Faughart

Gully and storm line repairs and maintenance were carried out at Dunbin Big and Clermont Road Haggardstown. Verge trimming was carried out along the N53 from Rathmore to Hackballscross, Donaghmore, Jonesborough Road, Aghnaskeagh, Balrobin, Birch’s Lane Blackrock and Rathmore Cottages. Illegally dumped waste was collected from various locations for disposal including the N53 at Newtownbalregan, Clermont Road Haggardstown and Carnmore Kilcurry. Disposal of waste from public bins and the weekly checking of ring buoys have also continued. Contracted works saw overlay and resurfacing completed at R215 Southern Link Road Dundalk and commenced at R215 (formerly N52) from Martin’s Cross to Fane Bridge and on L3167 Martin’s Cross/Rathroal.

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Southern Link Road, Dundalk

Cooley Area Further road edge restoration, pothole patching, drainage ditch clearing and verge clearance in Ardtullybeg, Drumnacarra, Ednetubber and at Mountain View, Carlingford, Drainage clearance at Glenmore and Omeath White Lining has been completed on the Ravensdale Regional Road following surface dressing General maintenance of roads, footpaths, car parks, public toilets, signage, gullies, drains, verges, etc continues. Street cleaning, bin collection in Carlingford, Omeath, Greenore, Templetown Beach, Gyles Quay and play ground areas continues.

North Mid-Louth Area Works carried out in September were mainly connected to drainage maintenance, tar patching, drainage improvement works, road signage repairs/maintenance and verge maintenance. Tar patching and pothole repairs were carried out from Flowery Cross to Lagan Bridge and at Crowmartin, Ravanny, Tullykeel, Tullyraine, Mooretown, Readypenny to Mansfieldtown, Corcreaghy to Lannat and at Newrath.

Drainage maintenance was carried out from Five Crossroads to Newrath and Readypenny to Newtowndarver, and at Mills of Louth, Hoarstown, Seabank, Annagassan and Station Road Castlebellingham, Thomastown, Muff, Mooretown, Commons Road, Little Road and Crumb Rubber Road Dromiskin. Drainage maintenance was also carried out in housing estates in Castlebellingham and Kilsaran and at Rathory, Churchtown, Reaghstown, Tullykeel, Aclint, Pepperstown and Mullacrew. Drainage improvement works were carried out at Thomastown on the Reaghstown to Mills of Louth road to alleviate surface water flooding. Verge trimming was carried out from Darver to Readypenny, Mills of Louth to Mullacrew, in the Louth Village area and at various junctions. Signage maintenance/repair was carried out at Fane Bridge and at Louth Village, Illegally dumped waste was collected from various locations for disposal, including Tallanstown, Louth Village, Mills of Louth and on the R132 (old N1). Disposal of waste from public bins and the weekly checking of ring buoys have also continued.

Ardee Municipal District South Louth Operations Area Road Repairs to the following roads:

Pedestrian Railing in Ardee town replacement following car accident

R170 Ardee - Dunleer patching works

LP 1260-31 Curraghbeg- Shanlis,

LS 5235-0 Harristown

R170 from Dunleer to Roundabout at M1

Stifyans to Mullacurry LS6238-0

Patching Coneyburrow Road

New footpaths at Sliabh Breagh, Ardee Drainage works to the following roads:

Drainage works Drumcar Road - cleaning gullies and opening watercuts.

Drainage works Duffy Cross R166 - cleaning gullies and opening watercuts.

N2 Anaglog,

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Gainstown Upper, LP 2226-27 ,

LS 6238-0 Drumcar

R170 Dunleer to roundabout at M1

Philipstown to the N2, CIS Schemes completed at Killally Lane, Togher, Marshallsrath, Dunleer and Beechwood Drive, Dunleer Road Works Programme South Louth Area 2020 Kilsaran appointed. Work commenced in the Rural Area on Monday 28thSeptember Environment Cleaning of main streets in Ardee on a daily basis. Collecting the litter bins in Ardee and Dunleer. Maintaining the Bring/bottle banks to ensure all remain clean. Ring-buoys monitoring and maintenance on weekly basis. Anti Dumping Initiative – Collon Collon site cleaned up and made secure

Parks Maintenance and cleaning of Fairgreen and Dunleer parks and playgrounds complete with daily checks of the playground and exercise equipment at both locations Public lights installed and commissioned in Seapoint car park in mid August.

Borough District of Drogheda Drogheda Town Area Roads

Drainage maintenance is continuing on an ongoing basis at various locations throughout the Town including the cleaning of road gullies, replacing damaged covers. Repair to broken manhole covers –various areas – Ballsgrove gully repair Footpath repairs commenced and are ongoing. Thomas Street has been completed and we are currently working along St. Mary’s Villas. Repairs to road signage and bollards ongoing in Drogheda and the South Louth area. Sand bags distribution, collection and filling around town and district area in expectation of flooding/adverse weather conditions. Other road maintenance operations such as maintaining and replacing road signage, traffic light maintenance and barrier replacement was undertaken at various locations throughout the Town – West Street pedestrianisation trial – setting up, attendance and removal of barriers, traffic Management signs on Saturday and Sunday 19th & 20th September Road markings to regulate parking and maintain traffic flows are continuing on an ongoing basis throughout the Town. Works are prioritised due to limited resources. Traffic Calming road markings are also being carried out throughout the Town. Townley Hall, CIS Scheme has been completed. Environment The crew are involved in daily emptying of Town Litter bins, street sweeping, litter picking, removal of illegal waste disposal such as beds, trolleys, clothes, mattresses, cardboard, tyres, wooden pallets and Sofas various locations around town and Drogheda District area – e.g. North Strand and steps, Lourdes Square, William Street, Bridge of Peace, Bessexwell’s lane, Twenties lane, Highlanes Steps, , Watery Hill Steps, Stameen, Slane Road, Boyle O’Reilly, Scarlet Street, Buttergate, Fair Street, Rope walk and O’Reilly’s car park. Temporary closure of lane off O’Reilly’s car park due to anti-social behaviour Graffiti removal is ongoing.

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Bonfire pallets Rathmullen Park

Bonfire material Moneymore

Bring Bank maintenance and clearance of illegally disposed waste, plus disinfecting against COVID-19. In addition some Clothes Banks were removed because of poor maintenance by service providers -- ongoing. Lifebuoys Monitoring and maintenance on weekly basis – ongoing. Clearing of back lanes and steps in Drogheda town centre. Dog waste receptacles – clearing and disinfecting ongoing. Parks Checking playground, skate park and exercise equipment – (urban and rural areas) Hanging baskets and window boxes floral display are being watered and fed around town and along bridges Weeding carried out at Church Street, John Paul Court.

Donore and Beamore Road – Hedge cut back. West Street – Tree pits surround topped up with gravel Grass cutting is ongoing. Hedge cutting commenced after end of nesting season.

Waste Management and Environment Report

Waste Management

Waste Enforcement There are a number of Waste Management Act related cases going through the District Court, Circuit Court (appeals and DPP case) and the High Court at present.

Litter Enforcement A total of 25 fines were issued in the month of September. Of these fines, 4 were issued in the Dundalk urban area, 13 in Drogheda urban area and 8 in the remaining County wide area. There were 2 fines issued for dog fouling in September.

There have been 1371 investigations with 416 fines issued to date in 2020.

Diesel Laundering Waste

A total of 9 IBC’s of Diesel Sludge were recovered in September 2020. The approximate cost of clean-up and disposal of the material is €11,237. There were 3 incidences of laundered diesel waste in September, a total of 3 ibc’s at Captains Road on the 5th, 3 at Carnmore on the 21st & 3 at Scotch Green on the 30th. So far in 2020 a total of 96 IBC’s at a cost of €131,103. approx. MyWaste Surveys are ongoing to establish the level of compliance with Waste Presentation byelaws, these will be followed up with an information

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campaign to inform the public of their responsibilities in relation to domestic waste.

Air / Water / Noise Pollution There were eight water pollution complaints received during September 2020 which were investigated. Seven complaints are closed off with one open. With regard to legal actions one case under Section 3 of the Local Government (Water pollution) Act 1977 as amended which was scheduled for hearing during June 2020 has been adjourned until October 2020 and relates to a private pumping station in Drogheda. Seven Air Pollution cases and seven Noise Pollution complaints were received during September 2020.

RMCEI (Recommended Criteria for Environmental Inspections) Inspection numbers have been revised and/or amended where appropriate while taking into account national priorities in water, waste air and noise. Bathing Waters The bathing water season ended on the 15th September 2020.

Water Framework/ River Basin Management Plans The Local Authority waters catchment assessment is on-going with field work currently being carried out in the Castletown catchment. Initial desktop studies have commenced in the Glyde catchment. The draft River Basin Management Plan (RBMP) is scheduled for December 2020. Public Consultations on the draft RBMP will take place from Dec 2020 to June 2021. A series of public authority engagements are taking place prior to December 2020. The first of these has already taken place with the Local Authority Water Communities office (LAWPro) with a further workshop with the EPA and LAWPro later in October 2020 to finalise areas for action (river catchments) for the next River Basin Management Plan.

Anti Dumping Initiative A total of €146,978 grant funding was received from the Department under the Anti-Dumping Initiative for the following projects:

1. Clean up and surveillance of Collon dump site

2. Mattress Amnesty Day at Dundalk and Drogheda Civic Amenity Sites

3. Sofa Amnesty Day at Dundalk and Drogheda Civic Amenity Sites

4. Environmental Enforcement Drone

5. Clean up at 3 locations in Coxs Demense

6. Clean up of the Ramparts River, Dundalk

7. Solar powered Bins for the Ramparts in Drogheda

8. Clean up at St Anthonys Park, Cement Road, Drogheda

9.Clean up at Doylesfort Road

The mattress and sofa amnesty was held on 2nd September 2020 and was very successful. A total of 2098 Mattresses and 1982 Couches were collected between the Drogheda and Dundalk recycling centres.

Climate Change The Home Energy Savings Kit launched on 1st September 2020. Good coverage of the launch was received in both social and local print media. The kit is available to borrow free of charge from Dundalk, Drogheda and Ardee libraries.

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Veterinary Services Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) As of 30/09/2020, Louth County Council Veterinary Section, under a Service Level Agreement with the FSAI, enforces food safety standards on 16 meat plants under its supervision in the County. Control of Dogs Control of Dogs Act 1986

Dogs impounded September 2020

Total dogs impounded 24

Strays 14

Surrendered by owners

9

No dogs reclaimed by owners

9

No of dogs rehomed direct

7

No of dogs rehomed to welfare groups

4

No of dogs on hand in Pound at 30/09/2020

3

Dog Licences September 2020

No of Licences sold 674

Licence Checks:

House calls 530

Section 16 Notices issued (request to produce licence within 10 days)

133

Fixed Penalty Notices 43

Control of Horses Control of Horses Act 1996 Control of Horses Bye-Laws 2003

Horses impounded September 2020

Horses seized, and reason for seizure:

0

Horses reclaimed by owner

0

Horses rehomed 0

Horses disposed of 0

No of horses on hand in Pound on 30/09/2020

0

Dog Breeding Establishments Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010

Dog Breeding Establishments September 2020

Total no of registered DBE’s in Louth (as at 30/09/2020)

6

Hunt 2

Boarding Kennels 2

Training Kennels 1

Welfare 1

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Corporate and Emergency Services

Seirbhisí Corporáideacha agus Éigeandála This Directorate has two key areas of responsibility:

Corporate Services – the maintenance and development of systems which facilitate the effective running of our Council, including Human Resources, and Information and Communications Technology.

Emergency Services – including the Fire Service, Civil Defence, Water Safety, and the planning and implementation of strategies which help to keep our citizens safe.

Other responsibilities include Sustainable Energy. Tá dhá eochairfhreagrachta ag an Stiúrthóireacht seo:

Seirbhisí Corparáideacha – ag cothabháil agus forbairt chórais atá baint leis an reáchtáil éifeachtach na Comhairle, agus Acmhainní Daonna, agus Techneolaíocht Faisnéise agus Chumarsáide san áireamh

Seirbhisí Éigeandála – Seirbhís Dóiteáin, Cosaint Shibhialta, Sábháilteacht Uisce san áireamh, agus ag pleanáil agus ag cur i bhfeidhm straitéisí chun chabhrú le muintir Chontae Lú a bheith slán sábháilte

Freagracht eile ag an Stiúthóireacht seo ná Fuinneamh Inbhunaithe. Joe McGuinness Director / Stiúrthóir

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Corporate & Emergency Services The Corporate Directorate includes the central services required to maintain and administer this Local Authority and includes Corporate, Human Resources and Information Communication Technology. Emergency Services includes all elements of the Fire Service including Major Emergency Management and the provision of Civil Defence Services.

Corporate During the month of September there were 12,441 customer queries – 6,832 calls, 1,456 e-mails and 4,153 counter queries. There were 3,421 valid SugarCRM cases recorded during September of which 592 (17%) remain unresolved.

The table below illustrates activity in the redress area 2019 Year to

Date 2020 Year to Date

September 2020

Freedom of Information 72 72 7

Data Protection 5 9 1

Access to Information on Environment

2 1

Ombudsman 10 7 2

Complaints Policy 4 10 0

Work is continuing on the draft Electoral Register which will be published in November. A further series of letters

requesting eircode details will shortly issue. The members should encourage the return of these letters along with any necessary

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

Telephone Calls Desk Queries Email Queries

Percentage of queries dealt with at first point of contact

Jan

Feb

March

July

August

Sept

37 | P a g e

corrections or additions and also to encourage those to respond to letters already issued. The Eircode exercise is providing an excellent validation of the register and will result in some individual amendments to polling places.

Sustainable Energy Public Sector Energy Efficiency Performance The data indicates that the Council remains ahead of its 2020 energy efficiency target for Public Sector Organisations. Better Energy Communities Grant 2018 & 2019 The Energy section is still pursuing the payment of the final grants for 2018 & 2019 with SEAI. Interreg EV Infrastructure bid for Sustainable Transport - Electric Vehicles Rapid Chargers The result of this application has not been received yet. Varcities H2020 Stage 2 Applications The Kick-off meeting of partners took place remotely on 9th to 11th September. The Council’s project, the creation of an outdoor learning hub in the courtyard of Dundalk library aims to increase the use and linkage of the area as a sustainable universal access space and is a continuation of the Market Square, Clanbrassil Street and Church Street public realm rejuvenation.

The energy team are currently developing baseline parameters (e.g. number of visitors / day and duration of stay, reasons for visiting, number of attractions for visitors, air quality, and mode of transport of visitors) that will be monitored during the project development – with particular focus on the number of users of the space at present. GenComm Interreg Energy Storage Project, France, Germany and B Members are encouraged to review the project website for an up-date on progress and in particular for more detail from the project on the potential for hydrogen use as a Sustainable Energy source. The project partners consider how hydrogen offers the opportunity to make energy production a primary driver of the economy rather than responding to the needs of the economy as at present. https://www.nweurope.eu/projects/project-search/gencomm-generating-energy-secure-communities/During the month of August there were 10,343 customer queries – 6,020 calls, 1,133 e-mails and 3,190 counter queries. The on-line portal is also available for qualified persons to make an application for inclusion or amendment to the Draft Register of Electors:- https://ww.louthcoco.ie/en/services/electoral-register/registeronline2021-22/.

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Fire & Emergency Services

The Covid 19 pandemic restrictions which were implemented in the fire service during March and scaled back during May and June are continuing to operate. The Fire Service is monitoring national Covid recommendations in relation to the operation of Dundalk Training Centre in particular. The Training Centre is booked up until the end of 2020. The two Louth fire fighters who completed the 17-week wholetime recruits course in Dublin Fire Brigade Training Centre went on operational duties with Drogheda and Dundalk Fire Brigades in early September.

Five new retained recruits are going through the recruitment process, four for Drogheda and one for Dunleer. One is attending a recruit’s course in Castlebar, starting on 5th October, and places are being booked on subsequent recruits courses for the others. September was the first full month of the operation of the agreement with Meath Fire Service on new arrangements for attending calls in East Meath. During September Louth attended 21 emergency callouts in East Meath. All public assembly licence applications are now received on line. The number of annual Dance Licence renewals for hotels, nightclubs and other

39 | P a g e

places of assembly were reduced this year. The Fire Prevention Section processed all applications and a number of these were adjourned. The Fire and Building Control Section is continuing its fire safety inspection and enforcement activity. The Section continues to receive notifications from HAP inspections. A number of such buildings in Drogheda have been closed and tenants evacuated. A meeting took place with the HAP Section and the Assistant Chief Fire Officer will be giving a briefing on fire safety to HAP inspection staff on 11th November. Applications for Fire Safety Certificates and Disabled Access Certificates can now be made on line. There has been a partial take up of this and paper-based applications are also being received. There have been issues with the new on line system and these are being worked through with the Nation Building Control Office. Major Emergency Management

Regional Major Emergency Steering and Working

Group meetings in relation to Covid have continued

by tele-conference. These meetings have included

personnel from the three Principal Response

Agencies, the County Councils, HSE and AGS.

Louth County Council is currently ensuring

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Housing and Quality of Life

Tithíocht agus Cáilíocht na Beatha

This Directorate has two key responsibilities:

Housing, which encompasses all initiatives which aim to match need and available resources in a sustainable way throughout our county

Quality of Life, a wide range of initiatives and programmes designed to make living in Louth a stimulating, safe and rewarding experience, including the arts, heritage, and our libraries

Tá dhá eochairfhreagracht ag an Stiúrthóireacht seo:

Tithíocht, a chuimsíonn gach tionscnamh agus de chuspóir acu ná na riachtanais agus na haicmhainní ar fad atá ar fail a chur le chéile go hinbhuanaithe ar fud ár gcontae

Cáilíocht na Beatha, réimse leathan tionscnaimh agus cláir atá deartha chun saol spreagúil, sásúil, sábháilte a chur ar fail i gContae Lú, na healaíona, an oidhreacht, agus ár leabharlanna san áireamh

Paddy Donnelly Director / Stiúrthóir

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Housing

Pillar 1 Addressing Homelessness

As the Responsible Housing Authority for the North East Region, Louth County Council continues to manage this area and achieve the goals set out in the North East Homelessness Action Plan, 2013-17. The work done within Louth can be summarised as follows:

Presentations of September 2020

Ard

ee M

D

Du

nd

alk

MD

DD

rog

he

da

BD

To

tal

Number of Person who presented as Homeless

01 106

92

200

Offered advice, support (including fast tracking H.A. for Rent Supplement eligibility)

01 93

81

173

Placed in Temporary Emergency Accommodation

00 05

07

12

Refused Offer of Temporary Emergency Accommodation

02 04

04

10

Not eligible from outside county or non HRC

00 04 01 05

The tables below reflect monthly returns submitted to the Department with regard to Homeless numbers in the NORTH EAST REGION between 21st September -27th September 2020 .

This anonymous and aggregated return of all individuals accessing emergency accommodation is returned to the Department of Housing on a monthly basis. Table 1: Gender

Gender Total

Male 77

Female 25

Total 102

Table 2: Age Groups

Age Group Total

18-24 13

25-44 61

45-64 19

65+ 09

Total 102

Table 3: Accommodation Type

Accommodation Type Total

Private Emergency Accommodation (PEA)

28

Supported Temporary Accommodation (STA)

51

Temporary Emergency Accommodation (low support)(TEA)

23

Unique Total (note, clients may have accessed multiple accommodation types during the week)

0

Minus people accessing multiple accommodation types during the week

0

Total unique individuals 102

Table 4: County

County Total

County Louth 87

County Monaghan 13

County Cavan 02

Total 102

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Table 5 - Families with dependent children breakdown

N

o.

of

fam

ilie

s

wit

h

dep

en

den

t

ch

ild

ren

No

. o

f

Ind

ivid

ua

l

Ad

ult

s

No

. o

f

De

pe

nd

en

ts

Individuals with dependent children

4 4 8

Total

4 4 8

Couples with dependent children

1 15

1

Total 1

15

1

Housing First

Louth Monaghan Cavan Total

Number of tenancies established

10 2 2 14

Number of individuals currently in tenancy

9 2 2 13

Covid 19 Homeless Services

As a direct response to the risk of communal spread of the Covid-19 virus amongst vulnerable individuals in Homeless Hostels, the Council has opened up a number of void properties and temporarily moved individuals and families from hostel accommodation into in these Units. This has allowed these persons to live in a more isolated environment thereby decreasing the risk of infection. Contracted service providers have continued to provide meals and high level support to these clients.

The Hostels and family Hub continue to operate with reduced capacity, which reflects government guidelines in respect of social and physical distancing. Isolation units have been made available for homeless persons with suspected/confirmed cases of Covid-19 and protocols have been drawn up to address such cases. The full range of Homeless Services continue to be provided remotely and the office is available to staff, on request, in exceptional cases. Inspections of Private Emergency Accommodation Since December 2017 the Homeless Office have carried out random and unannounced inspections on all B&BS, Hotels and Hostels providing Private Emergency Accommodation on behalf of Louth County Council. This will continue on a monthly basis subject to Covid 19 Restrictions. Housing Assistance Payment

The total number of applications in HAP is 3210

Ardee Municipal District

Dundalk Municipal District

Drogheda Borough District

Total

329 1699 1182 3210

Pillar 2 Accelerate Social Housing Over the period 2018 to 2021, a target has been set for the provision of 1074 units with an annual target of 520 units in 2019. These targets will include matters such as Part V provision, Acquisitions, Mortgage to Rents, Long Term Leases, Repair and Lease and Buy & Renew Acquisitions. The 2019 - 2020 delivery pipeline progress is detailed at the end of the Housing report.

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Social Housing Schemes Louth County Council welcomed the completion of Phase 1 of Wadman Park, Dublin Road , Dundalk consisting of 16 new social homes in Phase 1 . It is anticipated a total of 60 units will be available when all phases of the project is completed. Pre tenancy training has commenced and tenants are preparing to move into the properties.

Wadman Park, Dublin Road, Dundalk

Housing Allocations as at 30th September 2020

Nu

mb

ers

All

oca

ted

All

oca

tio

ns

-

So

cia

l

All

oca

tio

ns

-

Vo

lun

tary

Re

fus

als

–

So

cia

l

Re

fus

als

–

Vo

lun

tary

Ardee MD

88 3 2 1

Dundalk MD 96 76 10

22

Drogheda BD 22 62 1

8

Total Allocations

206 141 13 31

Transfers Approved within Social Housing at 30th September 2020

Year Ardee Dundalk Drogheda

2020 1 13 4

Housing List (excluding HAP Transfers)

Mo

nth

Ard

ee M

D

Du

nd

alk

MD

Dro

gh

ed

a

BD

To

tal

September 378 745 701 1824

Transfer List from HAP

Mo

nth

Ard

ee

MD

Du

nd

alk

MD

Dro

gh

ed

a

BD

To

tal

September 329 1699 1182 3210

There are a total of 246 applicants on the list for transfer (Non-HAP) within Social Housing including 19 applications from the Approved Housing Bodies Rent Management The number of tenants who pay rent by Household Budget is now 994

Current Rents Arrears as at 31st August 2020

Number of Account

Value

Rents between 4-6 weeks old

165 €57,211.00

Rents between 7-12 weeks old

158 €98,647.00

Rents greater than 12 weeks old

854 €3,005,767.00

TOTAL

1177

€3,161,625.00

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Pillar 3 Build More Homes

The Council continue to maintain land banks in the following locations, which can be developed if an appropriate project and funding is forthcoming.

Location Acrerage

Mullavalley, Louth Village

8.82

Kilkerley

3.80

Ballymakenny

16.53

Point Road

5.2

Various Individual Sites

0

Pillar 4

Improve the Rented Sector

N Last MMonth

Total

No. of properties inspected August 2020

67 460

No. of advisory notes issued to landlord

22 345

No. of improvement notices issued

29 75

No. of prohibition notices issued

7 15

No. of Rent Book Notices issued

0 0

Inspections ( HAP ) 59 338

Improvement Notices ( HAP) 29 73

Private Inspections Complaints 0 8

HAP Complaints 5 17

RAS Compliaints 0 0

Re Inspections HAP 3 71

Re Inspections Hap Compliance 0 11

Re Inspections RAS 0 0

Re Inspections RAS Compliance 0

AHB Inspection 0 3

Long Term Leases 2 2

Pillar 5

Utilise Existing Housing

Vacant Home Initiatives 2019/2020

The following table summarises the level of maintenance and works activity to existing stock.

Maintenance

Total (YTD)

This month

No. of Maintenance Requests Received

3665 447

No. of Maintenance Completed

2588 316

Vacant Properties Currently 34 No. social units have been used s temporary accommodation for isolation or additional homeless need during Covid 19 and are not included in the next table.

Vacant Properties

Total

Ardee Municipal District 06

Dundalk Municipal District

54

Drogheda Borough District

31

Total Re Lets

91

Vacant Properties CPO Units not yet ready for occupation (all county)

11

Total No. of CPO Properties (Relets & CPO’s)

102

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Grant Assistance to the Elderly and Disabled The private grant process is continuing with some changes to procedure to reflect social distancing guidelines. The following grants are available

Housing Adaption Grants - Priority 1, which will assist those who need whole time care in the home

Housing for Older People – Priority 1 to works that will preserve the integrity of the dwelling

Mobility Aids Grants - Priority 1, which will assist those who need whole time, care in the home.

Combined funding allocation of €1,837,369 from Department of Housing Planning & Local Government of which €367,474 is to be provided by Council’s own revenue. Private House Grants

Status HOP HAG MAG Total

New Applications Received 2020

63 55 23 141

Applications Completed 2020

55 50 9 114

Applications currently being processed in 2020

50 55 13 118

Estate Management

Drogheda MD & Ardee MD

Dundalk MD

Total

Pre Tenancy Training

04 20 24

Tenancy Investigations (call outs)

26 26 52

Tenancy Investigations (remotely)

24 68 92

Tenancy Inspections

12 22 34

Anti-Social Behavior

ASB CASES

DBD AMD

DMD TOTAL

ASB ONGOING

09 02

14 25

ASB COMPLETED

09 01

04 14

TOTAL ASB

18 03 18 39

DBD AMD DMD Total

ASB Verbal Warning

01 01 02 02

ASB Written Warning

00 00 01 00

.

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Definitions AHB = Approved Housing Body CAS = Capital Assistance Scheme which provides 100% funding to AHBs to build or acquire units for disabled or homeless applicants with a non- repayment mortgage in favour of the Housing Authority to ensure that the Housing Authority has both nomination rights and security over the asset created by public funds. CALF = Capital Advance Loan Fund which provides Department funding for up to 30% funding to AHBs to provide units for general use on the basis that they enter into a Payment and Availability agreement with the Housing Authority who will provide all the tenant nominations. CPO = Compulsory Purchase Scheme allows the local authority to land or property without the consent of the owner by means of a compulsory purchase order (CPO). This is being used to acquire vacant or derelict houses which are being returned to use as social housing units. IPS = Incremental Purchase Scheme

Voids = new addition to the report requested by Department of Housing, Planning & Local Government. SHCEP = Social Housing Current Expenditure Programme SHCEP supports the delivery of social housing by providing financial support to local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) for the long term leasing of houses and apartments from private owners and developers.

Delivery Stream Rebuilding Ireland Projected Delivery 2018-2021

2018 2019 2020 2021 Total

SHIP CONSTRUCTION 0 0 0 17 17

SHIP CONSTRUCTION RAPID 0 0 0 0 0

REGENERATION 0 0 0 22 22

CAS CONSTRUCTION 1 0 0 68 69

SHIP CONSTRUCTION SINGLE STAGE 23 26 12 03 64

SHIP CONSTRUCTION TURNKEY 0 5 142 23 170

SHIP Competitive Dialogue 0 0 0 0 0

CAS CONSTRUCTION TURNKEY & CAS SINGLE STAGE

0 0 0 12 12

PPP 0 0 80 0 80

AHB CALF Construction 10 15 2 0 27

AHB CALF Turnkey 119 188 48 404 759

CALF Part V 14 115 4 22 155

LA Part V 4 0 6 1 11

CAS Part V 0 0 0 0 0

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Project Name Project Phase

Total Units Expected

Approved Housing Body / Louth County Council

Project Status

Projected Substantial Completion Date

20 De la Salle Crescent, Ardee A92FV38

1 Louth County Council

Sale Agreed 2020

Reaghastown, Ardee A92VX36

1 Louth County Council

Sale Agreed 2020

Ballinard, Kilkerley A92V594

1 Louth County Council

Sale Agreed 2020

8 Cul na Raithe, Dundalk A92K8KR

1 Louth County Council

Sale Agreed 2020

151 Castleross, Dundalk A91D6C0

1 Louth County Council

Sale Agreed 2020

174 Moneymore, Drogheda A92RP8E

1 Louth County Council

Sale Agreed 2020

178 Moneymore, Drogheda A92EH59

1 Louth County Council

Conveyancing 2020

4 Railway Cottages, Jenkinstown A91FX58

1 Louth County Council

Conveyancing 2020

128 Newfield, Drogheda A92EC52

1 Louth County Council

Conveyancing 2020

22 Edenhill, The Loakers, Blackrock, A91W3KT

1 Louth County Council

Conveyancing 2020

44 Woodbury Gardens, Dundalk

1 Housing Agency Conveyancing 2020

36 Windmill Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth

1 Acquistion Conveyancing 2020

18 The Park, Riverbank, Drogheda

1 RAS Conveyancing 2020

13 Ard Na Tuire, Dromiskin, Co. Louth

1 LTL Conveyancing 2020

96 Cedarfield, Drogheda, Co. Louth

1 LTL Conveyancing 2020

41 Rockfield Manor, Dundalk, Co. Louth

1 Acquistion Conveyancing 2020

55 Bellingham Green, Castlebellingham A91NR58

1 Conveyancing 2020

CPO All bundles 2019 - Q3 Delivery

3/4 6 Louth County Council

Onsite 30/09/2019

CPO All bundles 2019 - Q4 Delivery

4/4 7 Louth County Council

Onsite 31/12/2019

9, Dundalk, Co. Louth 1/1 13 North & East Housing Association

Onsite 30/09/2020

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Ltd

Harbour Grove, Dundalk, Co. Louth

1/1 8 North & East Housing Association Ltd

Onsite 30/06/2020

Oriel Heights, Collon, Co Louth

1/1 13 North & East Housing Association Ltd

Funding approved

31/03/2021

Tullybrook 1/1 4 Cluid Housing Onsite 31/10//2020

The Kitchen Garden, Demesne Road, Dundalk

1/5 27 Cluid Housing Funding Approved

01/12/2020

The Kitchen Garden, Demesne Road, Dundalk

2/5 38 Cluid Housing Funding Approved

01/07/2020

The Kitchen Garden, Demesne Road, Dundalk

3/5 21 Cluid Housing Funding Approved

01/10/2021

The Kitchen Garden, Demesne Road, Dundalk

4/5 5 Cluid Housing Funding Approved

01/02/2022

The Kitchen Garden, Demesne Road, Dundalk

5/5 39 Cluid Housing Funding Approved

01/08/2022

1-5 Brabazon Hall, Termonfeckin

1/1 3 Louth County Council

Onsite 31/01/2020

Tierney Street, Ardee 1/1 7 Oaklee Housing Trust

Stage 3 Approved

01/02/2020

36 Strand Hill, Clogherhead 1/1 4 St. John of God Housing Association Ltd

Stage 1 Approved

31/03/2020

CPO All bundles 2020 Delivery Q1

1/4 5 Louth County Council

Onsite 31/03/2020

Bishops Court, Dundalk, Co Louth

1/1 2 Túath Housing Association Ltd

Onsite 31/08/2020

Knockshee Close, Blackrock, Co Louth

1/1 3 Cluid Housing Completed 20/05/2020

Clonmore Close, Ardee, Co Louth

1/4 12 Cluid Housing Proposal 04/12/2020

Clonmore Close, Ardee, Co Louth

2/4 15 Cluid Housing Proposal 31/03/2021

Clonmore Close, Ardee, Co Louth

3/4 15 Cluid Housing Proposal 30/04/2021

Clonmore Close, Ardee, Co Louth

4/4 13 Cluid Housing Proposal 30/09/2021

Rathmullen Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth (Tuath)

7/7 12 Túath Housing Association Ltd

Completed 31/07/2020

Ravel Ardee Road, Dunleer 1/1 80 Oaklee Housing Trust

Completed 17/06/2020

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St. John's Home, Peter's Hill, Drogheda, Co. Louth

1/1 4 North ＆ East

Housing Association Ltd

Stage 1 Approved

30/06/2020

CPO All bundles 2020 Delivery Q2

2/4 5 Louth County Council

Onsite 30/06/2020

Lismullen Grove, Dundalk, Co Louth

1/3 6 Tuath Onsite 30/06/2020

Cathedral View, Dundalk, Co Louth

1/7 7 Tuath Funding Approved

31/03/2021

Cathedral View, Dundalk, Co Louth

2/7 9 Tuath Funding Approved

30/06/2021

Cathedral View, Dundalk, Co Louth

3/7 4 Tuath Funding Approved

30/10/2021

Lismullen Grove, Dundalk, Co Louth

2/3 7 Tuath Onsite 31/03/2021

Barrack Street, Dundalk 1/1 27 Simon Community : Dundalk Simon

Stage 2 Approved

01/11/2020

5 Slieveroe Cresent, Dundalk

1/1 1 Cluid Housing Association

Stage 3 Approved

30/11/2020

Cathedral View, Dundalk, Co Louth

4/7 6 Tuath Funding Approved

31/12/2021

Castletown Road Dundalk 6 units

1/1 6 Louth County Council

Funding Approved Single Stage

31/12/2020

Bridgegate Ardee 5 Agreed 31/12/2020

CPO All bundles 2019 - Q4 Delivery

4/4 12 Louth County Council

Onsite 31/12/2020

CPO All bundles 2020 Delivery Q3

3/4 1 Louth County Council

Onsite 31/12/2020

CPO All bundles 2020 Delivery Q4

4/4 9 Louth County Council

Onsite 31/12/2020

Racecourse Meadows, Dundalk, Co. Louth

2/4 22 Túath Housing Association Ltd

Onsite 31/08/2021

Harbour View, Coulter Place, Dundalk

1/2 12 Cluid Housing Funding Approved

31/03/2021

Father Finn Park (Phase 2) 1/1 17 Louth County Council

Onsite 27/02/2021

Lismullen Grove, Dundalk, Co Louth

3/3 8 Tuath Onsite 28/02/2021

Four Winds, Mullacapple, Collon

1/1 1 St. John of God Housing Association Ltd

Stage 2 Approved

31/03/2021

Gort Bui, Ballymakenny Road, Drogheda

1/5 13 Louth County Council

Onsite 15/10/2020

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Gort Bui, Ballymakenny Road, Drogheda

2/5 9 Louth County Council

Onsite 06/11/2020

Gort Bui, Ballymakenny Road, Drogheda

3/5 9 Louth County Council

Onsite 11/12/2020

Gort Bui, Ballymakenny Road, Drogheda

4/5 10 Louth County Council

Onsite 12/02/2020

Gort Bui, Ballymakenny Road, Drogheda

4/5 08 Louth County Council

Onsite 16/04/2021

Racecourse Meadows, Dundalk, Co. Louth

3/4 6 Túath Housing Association Ltd

Onsite 31/12/2021

Racecourse Meadows, Dundalk, Co. Louth

4/4 7 Túath Housing Association Ltd

Onsite 31/12/2021

Racecourse Meadows, Dundalk, Co. Louth

1/4 45 Clanmil Funding Approved

31/03/2021

Harbour View, Coulter Place, Dundalk

2/2 12 Cluid Housing Funding Approved

31/03/2021

Cathedral View, Dundalk, Co Louth

5/7 5 Tuath Funding Approved

30/06/2021

Cathedral View, Dundalk, Co Louth

6/7 6 Tuath Funding Approved

30/07/2021

Cathedral View, Dundalk, Co Louth

7/7 16 Tuath Funding Approved

31/08/2021

Cox's Demesne Phase 2B 1/1 22 Louth County Council

Onsite 19/11/2021

Cathedral View, Dundalk, Co Louth

7/7 12 Tuath Funding Approved

30/09/2021

Moneymore, Drogheda - Infill

1/1 1 Louth County Council

Funding Approved Single Stage

12/09/2022

Gort Uaine, Clogherhead - Infill

1/1 1 Louth County Council

Funding Approved Single Stage

12/09/2022

School Lane, Dunleer - Infill 1/1 1 Louth County Council

Funding Approved Single Stage

12/09/2022

Rathmullen Park, Drogheda - Infill

1/1 4 Louth County Council

Funding Approved Single Stage

12/0122022

Boice Court (Phase 2 - 4) 1/1 68 Louth County Council

Stage 1 Approved

20/10/2022

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Mount Avenue, Dundalk 1/1 93 Louth County Council

Stage 1 Approved

06/12/2022

Muirhevnamor, Dundalk Phase 1

1/1 18 Louth County Council

Stage 1 Approved

28/02/2023

Wadman Park, Haynestown, Dundalk

1/3 16 Louth County Council

Onsite 31/08/2020

Wadman Park, Haynestown, Dundalk

2/3 17 Louth County Council

Onsite 02/10/2020

Wadman Park, Haynestown, Dundalk

3/3 29 Louth County Council

Onsite 02/11/2020

Greengates 1/1 44 Louth County Council

Completed 26/06/2020

Newtown View Marsh Road Drogheda

1/3 40 Respond Funding Approved

31/03/2021

Newtown View Marsh Road Drogheda

2/3 46 Respond Funding Approved

31/12/2021

Newtown View Marsh Road Drogheda

3/3 47 Respond Funding Approved

30/08/2022

Hallidays Mill Quay St Dundalk

1/1 85 Co Operative Houisng

Proposal 31/03/2021

Newfoundwell Road Drogheda

1/2 Cluid Proposal 30/11/2021

Newfoundwell Road Drogheda

2/2 Cluid Proposal 30/09/2022

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Communities and Sport Social Inclusion Week 28th September to 2nd October Louth LEADER Partnership in collaboration with Louth Public Participation Network held a Webinar on September 29th to mark and celebrate Social Inclusion Week. It was a great opportunity for PPN Members and other Community Groups to meet the Louth Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) and Public Participation Network (PPN) Teams and the PPN gave a brief presentation on Louth PPN and the benefits of becoming a member. Guest speakers at the event included Ann Irwin, National Coordinator Community Work Ireland Social Research and Policy Analyst and Anastasia Crickley, former Head of the Dept. of Applied Social Studies NUI Maynooth and Chairperson of Pavee Point Traveller & Roma Centre.

Training and Capacity Building Following on from our recent training and capacity building survey, the PPN has identified the following top 5 courses as requested by PPN Members:

How to complete LA funding applications

GDPR

Good Governance

PPN Representatives Training

Social Media for beginners

The Autumn/Winter training schedule is currently being prepared and courses will commence in

October. This is a great opportunity for PPN Members to upskill and expand their knowledge. PPN Zoom Account There has been a steady increase in the number of requests from PPN Members to use its Zoom Account and the PPN continues to support groups in staying connected at this time. Olive Murphy from Scaleforce shared her story as part of National Volunteering Week, see extract below. This means so much to her group, for the full story, click here https://volunteerlouth.ie/blog/901-national-volunteering-week-louth-land-of-legends-olive-s-volunteering-story?fbclid=IwAR0L9ze-ymTtBzRdea5tAw_gehbep7OqVPPvrAPfyxZLe7lSZY0axyBjrD8 “When the Covid-19 restrictions started I knew our members were going to really feel at a loss. Unfortunately one of our members had died tragically only the week before and I knew that their family and our other members would really feel the loss of the music……. I decided to keep our weekly session going. With the help of two other group members we record each session and put it up on Facebook. We had help from Gráinne Carroll of Louth PPN who got us set up on Zoom. This made our session even better” Olive Murphy PPN Community Awards 2020 It is with great regret that the 2020 PPN Community Awards Ceremony due to be held on December 4th has now been cancelled in light of Government Guidelines and the increasing rise in Coronavirus cases. The health and safety of our Communities remains paramount. Members of the Secretariat have agreed to turn this negative into a positive and instead, the PPN will film a short video of thanks to all our Members highlighting some of the fantastic work that they do all year round and in particular throughout the extremely difficult circumstances of 2020. The video is hoped to be launched in December so watch this space……

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Louth/Meath Migrant Integration Strategy and Forum Louth County Council and Meath County Council have collaborated on the Louth/Meath Migrant Strategy 2019-2022. In September, nominations were sought of Representatives seeking election to the ‘Louth/Meath Migrant Integration Forum’ on behalf of Louth PPN. Nominations were sought from Migrant Groups in the Louth PPN Social Inclusion Pillar. Flora Okobi from Culture Connect has been nominated to sit on the Forum. Louth in Bloom 2020 Preparations are continuing for the virtual Award ceremony to be held in late October to honour and recognise the work carried out in our communities over the spring and summer months. Details to follow.

Minister for Justice and Equality, Helen McEntee pictured with Cathaoirleach Cllr. Dolores Minogue and Joan Martin, Chief Executive and Chair of the Louth LCDC, at the recent launch of the Joint Louth Meath Migrant Integration Strategy.

Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) 2020 The LCDC at its meeting on the 21st September 2020 approved funding in the amount of €64,790. Funding was allocated across each Municipal District Area. The Dundalk District received €29,044, Drogheda District received funding of €22,341 and Ardee District receiving €13,405. In total 28 different projects were awarded funding from a total of 44 applications. Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) 2020 – Community Centres & Buildings The LCDC at its meeting on the 21st September 2020 approved funding in the amount of €169,823. Funding was allocated across each Municipal District Area. The Dundalk District received €76,128, Drogheda District received funding of €58,560 and Ardee District receiving €35,135. In total 29 different projects were awarded funding from a total of 36 applications. LEADER The LAG at its meeting, on 21st September, 2020 approved funding support in the amount of €243,848.01 for a total of 16 LEADER projects. Locations of the projects approved for support include Blackrock, Carlingford, Dunleer,

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Termonfeckin, Stabannan, Dromiskin, Dundalk and other locations throughout the county. Blue Flag Beaches and Green Coast Beach The Blue Flag 2020 season for our beaches at Clogherhead, Port and Templetown finished on 15th September Town & Village Renewal Scheme 2020 Funding for Accelerated Measure in Response to COVID -19 – Round 2 was announced on 17th September 2020. Funding of €155,000 has been provided by the Department of Rural & Community Development in respect of 5 projects in Louth, please find details below:

Town/ Village

Project Details Amount of Funding

8 Locations

Development/promotion of “Sea Louth” seafood trail

€40,000

Blackrock Range of measures including marketing campaign, painting, lighting and outdoor furniture.

€40,000

Omeath Enhancement of outdoor space at the Dolmen Centre and enhancement to commercial district.

€25,000

Louth Village

Shop front painting and signage enhancement scheme.

€25,000

Dunleer Provision of business/digital hub to enable remote working

€25,000

Five applications were also submitted on 28th August for Accelerated Measure in Response to COVID -19 – Round 3, please find details below:

Town/Village Project Details Amount of Funding

Dundalk Painting Scheme to rejuvenate historic Dundalk town centre.

€40,000

Drogheda Town centre rejuvenation

€40,000

including lane enhancement, gum removal and bins.

Various Locations

Enhancement of Broadband Connection Sites across Louth.

€25,000

Monasterboice Refurbishment of toilets at Round Tower tourist site.

€25,000

Stabannon Provision of community meeting space.

€19,440

Ten applications were submitted to the Department for consideration under the Town and Village 2020 (Main Scheme), please find details below:

LOCATION DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT

Funding sought

Aclint Refurbishment of Aclint Community Centre.

€100,000

Blackrock Provision of footpaths at Rock Road area.

€100,000

Carlingford Repair section of wall around Carlingford Heritage Centre.

€100,000

Clogherhead (Port Beach)

Upgrade of public toilets & fencing at Port Beach. Preparation of Village assessment plan

€55,800

Dromiskin Provision of footpaths to link up Old School with Jack Hill.

€100,000

Termonfeckin Works to complete the Community Centre at St. Fechins GFC. e.g. lighting, lift, toilets, heating etc.

€100,000

Dunleer Upgrade to access route for pedestrians, cyclists & cars to

€63,324.75

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an area of Dunleer where a number of leisure facilities are based.

Grange Drainage works at Templetown beach and upgrade works to public toilets at Templetown beach.

€38,700

Ardee Resurfacing of existing carpark at St. Mary’s GFC.

€73,293

Stabannon Extension to existing footpaths in the village from school to graveyard.

€76,050

Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2020 Five applications were submitted under Measure 1 of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2020, please find details below:

LOCATION DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT

GRANT

Various locations (beaches)

Provision of Water Dispenser at four beaches – Carlingford, Clogherhead, Gyles Quay and Templetown.

€20,000

Carlingford Barriers. Signage to be provided at the Castle to warn of potential hazards. It would also include the provision of disabled access.

€9,732

Stephenstown Pond

Phase 2 of an upgrade to the walkway at Stephentown Pond nature trail. It will

€17,100

complete the walking route of the pond.

Long Woman’s Grave

Provision of signage, message board and picnic tables at the Long Womans Grave.

€10,800

Monasterboice Signage and notice boards for “Monasterboice Walks” walking trail.

€19,800

Sport Louth Sports Partnership welcomes funding of €202,000 for Sport and Physical Activity in Louth through the Dormant Accounts Fund. Funding has been received to deliver the following projects and programmes, €61,500 for Moneymore Community Sports Hub and €20,000 for Muirhevnamor Community Sports Hub. €100,000 for Innovation in Physical Literacy. €14,000 for Volunteer Supports and €6,500 for Youth Leadership was secured The allocation is part of a total investment package of €7.3m in Dormant Accounts Funding announced by Sport Ireland for a wide range of sport and physical activity measures countrywide.

Bike Week 2020 Louth Sports Partnership organised numerous events through County Louth as part of Bike Week 2020 19th September to 26th September including a free family cycle weekend in Carlingford. 1500 Free Water Bottles were also issued to children across the County to promote Bike Safety.

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GAA Inclusive Fitness Day GAA National Inclusion Fitness Day was held on 23rd September, residents from local community across the county took part in a range of activities at Mattock Rangers GAA grounds and Roche Emmets GAA grounds.

EU_SHAFE Project We are now in the third semester of the project. The project made a detailed submission to the National Consultation on the Future Priorities of ERDF/ESF+ Funding in Ireland highlighting the need to build resilience to demographic change throughout the Regional Operation Programmes. The submission can be viewed at https://www.louthcoco.ie/en/services/communities/louth-age-friendly/eu_shafe-interreg-europe-news/ The project in conjunction with Louth Age Friendly County made a Pre-Budget submission to the Minister for Finance asking for an increase in the Household Benefits Package to help older people with the cost of broadband. This is in light of the Covid 19 advice to stay home and stay safe and to minimise face to face contacts particulary among over 70’s. Ongoing Conference calls with our EU_SHAFE partners across Europe take place once a month providing updates on the project. The next call is scheduled for 8th October.

Louth Library Service All five of our branch libraries continue to operating regular opening hours whereby users can

Browse, Borrow & return items

Photocopy & print

Avail of public internet and WiFi services. Limited PC use is available and library users are encouraged to book a slot in advance.

Make appointments to use the reference room and microfilm readers.

Reserve a study space in Dundalk, Drogheda & Ardee branches.

The national online reservation service has resumed whereby library users can browse the national catalogue and reserve items which will be delivered to their local branch.

Browse the daily and weekly local and national newspapers.

The library service for the housebound also continues to operate.

Summer Stars 2020

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The 2020 Summer Stars Reading Programme concluded at the end of August. The programme which is designed to help children maintain their literacy levels over the course of school holidays experienced a much quieter year than normal due to Covid 19 restrictions. Registration figures, nationally, were much lower compared to other years. However a very successful online programme in Louth, which included storytimes, quizzes, scavenger hunts, colouring and crafts, online bookclub allowed children to remain engaged with the programme and maintain their link with the Library and our many services; 47 different videos were posted online with over 10,000 views and a reach of over 42,000. Right to Read network programme LMETB have begun a series of English language classes for Syrian refugees recently arrived in Ardee. The classes are running for 6 weeks in Ardee Library. Children’s Book Festival

The festival is running throughout the month of October. Our events will be moving online this year with selected primary schools invited to Zoom webinars with author Nicola Pierce and Maeve Devoy Nicola Pierce will do a pre-recorded video about her latest novel “Chasing Ghosts, an Arctic Adventure”, illustrating the process of writing and the research involved.

The Secret Lives of Books is a workshop taking children on a magical journey inside their favourite books with Marie Devoy. The Book Wizard will be in Drogheda Library for Children’s Book Festival in October. Book Wizards is a one to one recommendation appointment suitable for parents and babies, toddlers and children up to 13 years. Library staff hopes to continue with the very popular online delivery of stories via our social media platforms to complement the programme. Voices

The latest addition to the pioneering Open Door series 'Voices’ is now available to borrow in all public Libraries across Ireland. The book marks NALA’s (National Adult Literacy Agency) 40th anniversary. This book is perfect for those who are just getting back into reading. Written in plain English and edited by Patricia Scanlan It features short stories by top Irish authors like Sinead Moriarty, Graham Norton, Roddy Doyle. Louth Libraries have received 104 copies of this book, with copies available to borrow in all of our Library branches.

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Minister for Rural and Community Development approves funding of €100,000 under the public libraries Small Scale Capital Works Programme. The award provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development to support the Public Libraries Small Scale Capital Works will be used will fund a library garden to the rear of Dundalk library and painting of the Library. The award will be matched with a minimum 10% Council funding. The project will turn previously unused space into an attractive, comfortable and welcoming area that will be usable in most weather. It will maximise all available space in the library and alleviate the capacity issue to a degree presented by the Covid 19 Pandemic. The current social distance requirement has meant that educational and cultural programming has pivoted online where possible. Any potential for events in the library area has had a detrimental impact on the capacity in the library, be it for study, browsing or computer access. This library garden will provide for safe, external seating areas for activities, meetings and project work, as well as reading and contemplation. Being an external space, the newly designed area will mitigate against the risk now posed in any type of group work due to Covid 19 Pandemic. This is extremely important as it allows us to build on previous funded investment and the work done to support marginalized, socially excluded and disadvantaged communities and will ensure all investment is maximized. Department of Rural & Community Development Sensory Funding Louth Library Service was allocated funding to support the provision of sensory facilities and equipment. This is part of Louth Library Service’s ongoing commitment to create an environment of inclusion and integration.

Sensory wall panels and a sensory bubble tube were installed in Drogheda Library in September. The library is awaiting delivery of a selection of sensory books for children on the Autism Spectrum. Equipment was purchased in consultation with Autism Support Louth through ABACUS School and Life Skills Project Drogheda. A Tovertafel, or Magic Table was purchased for Dundalk & Ardee Libraries. Research has shown that use of the Tovertafel can result in an increase in social interaction and physical activity in people with intellectual disabilities,people suffering from dementia and those on the Autism spectrum. Dundalk Library is developing a programme to work with Inspire Autism and Autism Initiatives in Dundalk for using the table.

Ardee Library is planning to work with teenagers from the ASD unit and mainstream students in Ardee Community School. A fabulous sensory wall installed in Ardee library from the funding allocation.

Ardee Library Sensory wall Louth Festival of History 2020

The 2020 Louth Festival of History went live from September 26th with be an online lecture series reflecting current COVID 19 restrictions. All talks

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are available until October 26th via the webpage www.Louthhistoryfestival.com

Bringing together historians from across the country, the talks will go beyond the traditional political and military histories of the Irish Revolution and instead bring to life the personal lived histories of the period. Topics include the Aftermath of the Great War; Anglo-American Perspectives on Irish Nationalism; Partition, the Border and Armagh; Cumann na mBan and the Treaty; and the RIC in Louth. This programme is supported by the The Department of Tourism, Culture,Arts,Gaeltacht, Sport and Media under the Decade of Centenaries 2012-2023 initiative. Louth Science Festival A virtual programme of events will take place from 9th-21st November. Funding from Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) has allowed Louth Library Service to programme an exciting festival of events with creative & innovative facilitators from around the country. With our varied programme of events aimed at all ages, we hope to make STEM education accessible and fun to all. The Louth Science Festival is targeted towards primary & secondary schools and the general public. A flavour of some of the events include workshops on “Low GI Cookery” with Tara Walker, “Ireland’s Weather Today” with RTE weather forecasters and “Mysterious Microbes” with Scientific Sue. Arts Culture Night 2020 took place on Friday 18th September with both live and online events taking place. Total live attendance figure was 232, and the number of views of the online content currently at 11,360. Culture Night events were funded by Louth County Council and The Arts Council.

Unveiling of a map of County Louth, after being created and steam-rolled at Creative Spark’s Culture Night. Drogheda Classical Music opened its Autumn Series on Thursday 24th September with a live performance with limited capacity in St Peter’s Church of Ireland, Drogheda. Featuring music by Brahms, it was performed by Barry Douglas and The Eposito Quartet. In addition the recital was recorded and available to watch via vimeo for a limited time.

Drogheda Classical Music Series 24/09/2020 The next concert takes place on 16th October and features John O’Connor (Piano) performing Beethoven Sonatas. Two more recitals are planned for 13th November and 10th December. For more information and programme details see: http://droghedaclassicalmusic.com/concerts/

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Hold Steady is the sixth annual Creative Spark Residency Programme Exhibition which is supported by the Arts Office of Louth County Council. The exhibition will run from 10th October to 7th November in An Táin Arts Centre, Dundalk. Over the last six years the residency programme has supported 34 artists to expand and develop their work. A virtual opening of the exhibition will take place, including artist talk, at 7pm on Friday 9th October on an Táin Arts Centre Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/antainartscentre/ Creative Ireland Programme The Creative Ireland programme in Louth received a boost in August when €50,000 was allocated to support artists and creatives whose practice was impacted by Covid-19. Following an open call and assessment a total of nine projects received funding which in turn will provide support to approx. 35 artists/creatives in Louth. Supported by Creative Ireland funding, October sees the return of Leanbh Children’s Festival in Drogheda. Taking place over four Saturdays and during the midterm, this year’s Leanbh will feature film, storytelling, stories on radio, podcasts on stage, theatre, science and magic. All shows must be booked in advance, as there is limited capacity of only 40 seats available. Tickets are sold in pods of 2, 3, and 4, with every second row empty, and adhering to social distancing. https://droicheadartscentre.ticketsolve.com/shows/873621589

Louth County Archives

1920 Local Elections Commemorative booklet: To mark the centenary of the local elections of 1920 (urban authorities in January and the remainder in June), the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government commissioned the production of a booklet which was produced in conjunction with the Local Government Archivists and Records Managers. A limited number of hard-copies are available; however, a pdf version will be placed on the website in October.

Culture Night 2020: The County Archives took part in Culture Night on 18th September last by re-showing its ‘Archives into Art with Miriam Fox’ online project. Wellbeing During Covid-19 initiatives: Louth County Archives invited the people of Louth to help record the history of the COVID-19 pandemic by keeping a daily diary of their experiences in a project called ‘Our Louth Diary Project’. These diaries will be held permanently in the County Archives, for future generations to understand what life is like for us during this unprecedented period. Alternatively, people could take a photograph or record a short sound recording of their local area. Donating Diaries: Diaries can now be placed in an envelope, marked for the attention of the Co Archives, along-with the Donation Form available from the Diary Project web-page (hard-copy forms also available from Customer Services) and deposited in the post-boxes at the entrances to Louth Co Council offices (Co Hall, Dundalk Town Hall, Drogheda and Ardee Civic Offices) or at a

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Customer Service desk. Further information and instructions for digital material is also available on the Diary Project web-page: https://www.louthcoco.ie/en/services/archives/our-louth-diary-project/.

County Museum

To mark Culture Night on Friday September 18 the Museum unveiled Louth – Land of Legends, Lyrics and Song on its Facebook page. This is a collection of ‘Horrible Histories’-style songs marking various aspects of both national and local history/archaeology. The songs have proven to be quite popular particularly with teachers. To mark Sports Heritage Day (Sept 30) the Museum highlighted elements from its collection specifically a programme for the hammer final in Amsterdam in 1928 when Pat O’Callaghan won gold for Ireland and a commemorative menu from a banquet to mark the gold medal success of O’Callaghan and Bob Tisdall in the LA Games in 1932. The Museum continues to add to its collection with this acquisition one of the more recent. It is a

cigarette case given to renowned tenor, Count John McCormack, following a fundraising concert for St. Mary’s in Oct 1935. The case bears an inscription expressing the gratitude of the Marist Fathers, Dundalk.

Heritage The Heritage Officer was in contact with TWO separate INTERREG projects working to ensure wise management of Carlingford Lough. ‘ALICE’ focuses primarily on the Northern county Down side of the Lough, as well as sites in France, Spain and Portugal. MarPAMM covers the whole coast of County Down and most of County Louth, including Dundalk Bay. The importance of our coastal areas seems to be being increasingly recognised. Coastwatch is a long-running international survey of litter and, more recently, biodiversity on our coasts. The Heritage Officer is the Coastwatch coordinator for County Louth and would love to hear from any elected members or staff who would like to survey their own 500 metre stretch of Louth’s coast. https://coastwatch.org/europe/survey/#all-ireland-survey