Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has said Waterford City and County Council must listen to the concerns of locals about the planned water activity facility in Ardmore.
McGuinness said:
“The Council should listen to the concerns of the community in Ardmore and local voices must be heard.
“The project that was presented to councillors last February is markedly different to what is being developed now. The plans for affordable and older person’s housing have been dropped, and the Council has rowed back on commitments on sea-front parking, additional market space and community consultation.
“The local Ardmore 365 group worked with councillors last summer to try address many of these concerns. A delegation from Ardmore 365 delivered a detailed presentation to Councillors and Council management in July last year.
“Despite my own representations and those of other public representatives, Waterford City & County Council decided not to take the views of this group on board. My proposal to develop a water recreation facility at Clonea rather than at Ardmore fell on deaf ears.
“I believe that Ardmore 365 has been treated very unfairly by the Council – asked to promote a project while their views and the views of the wider public are routinely ignored. They have stood by and for the community at every step and should be commended.
“It is disappointing to see some local politicians spin the situation in Ardmore to score political points, rather than supporting the community.
“Waterford City and County Council should rethink its approach here and listen to the people of Ardmore. The real need in the village is affordable and social housing for local people – this must be the priority.”
Conor D. McGuinness TD 