Laois County Council staff have informed the Portlaoise Municipal District that the housing development in Radharc Darach, Hepburn Court will be put out for re-tender.
The issue was raised by Sinn Féin Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley, who requested an update on the current progress and cause of delays regarding the development.
Ms Georgina Ireland, Senior Executive Officer said:
“Lands at Hepburn Court were transferred to Cluid Housing Association in August 2023 following the resolution of a number of issues with the ESB regarding the 38KV substation located on the site.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, the contractor appointed for the scheme construction of 54 units, disengaged from the process prior to commencement.
“Accordingly, as the tender period had expired, Cluid had to re-tender for scheme construction, the closing date for which is 9 February 2024.
“Cluid envisages appointment of a contractor and commencement on site by the end of Q1 2024. In the meantime, discussions have been ongoing with the ESB regarding cable diversion works on the site.
“Cluid is targeting mid-February 2024 for both cable diversion and demolition works, which will take 2 weeks to complete.
“Members will be kept appraised when these works commence and throughout the construction period.”
Cllr Dwane Stanley went on to ask that the County Council carry out improvements around St. Brigid’s Place and the Leisure Centre/Railway Line
The improvements outlined included drainage works along the boundary improved public lighting, and a time frame as to when the native trees and shrubbery will be replaced in phase one along the boundary line.
Mr Wes Wilkinson, Senior Executive Engineer said:
“The Portlaoise MD Office will examine the location along the rail boundary near St. Brigid’s Place with a view to carrying out drainage works in Q-1 of 2024.
“The Public Lighting section of Laois County Council have commenced the installation of public lighting along the footpath adjacent to the Leisure Centre Railway Line.
“The Portlaoise MD Office will install landscaping and planting along the boundary line at St. Brigid’s Place within the next six to eight weeks.”
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