DURROW needs a lifeline if it is to avoid becoming a "tumbleweed town" in the wake of the motorway by-pass, according to the chairman of the Durrow Community Forum.
Speaking at 'Positivity Durrow', Hugh Sheppard called on politicians and Laois County Council to support the community by pushing through essential services for the south Laois town.
A big crowd gathered in the Castle Arms Hotel for the event orga
nised to display plans the local community has to develop. Mr Sheppard told the locals and politicians that Durrow has ambitions.
"Not only do we need ambition but there is an immediate requirement for a united ambition from us all to ensure the future vibrancy and vitality of this town. I say this not only with the current economic environment in mind but also in advance of the motorway bypass of Durrow in a few months' time," he said.
The community leader was critical of the National Roads Authority (NRA).
"Make no mistake about it the NRA have ensured that Durrow will become an isolated geographic location in the future. However, we are where we are and with every threat comes an opportunity and I believe our opportunity now is to plan a model of self-sufficiency here in Durrow," said Mr Sheppard.
Mr Sheppard said a planned approach is needed to increase the population and attract business and jobs. He said the locality has natural resources, land, is geographically well located and has a fantastic community spirit. He said people have expressed the desire to live and work in Durrow. But he said sewerage and water services were key to Durrow's survival and growth. New facilities are planned but need the approval of the Department of the Environment.
"Central to any semblance of self-sufficiency is the upgrade of our water and sewerage system. How can we keep our schools at full capacity? How can we keep our banks and businesses open? How can we attract small industry? How can we encourage people to set up here in Durrow if we are not given the basic supporting infrastructure?
"We are told that plans for the upgrade of the sewerage system in Durrow are currently with the Department (of Environment) but the decision makers have it within their power to fast-track these systems for Durrow. I say give us our lifeline. Allow us to grow or watch idly by as Durrow degenerates into a Tumbleweed town in the aftermath of the bypass," he said.
Responding to his speech councillors and public representatives said they would support Durrow but none made promises to deliver.
Sean Fleming TD said he would raise the matter in Dublin within weeks while Charlie Flanagan TD said he would also put his shoulder to the wheel. Laois County Council's Director of Services Declan Byrne said he would follow up on the status of the sewerage work.
The meeting was also addressed by Cllr James Daly, Cathaoirleach, Cllr John Bonham, Cllr John Joe Fennelly and Cllr Marty Phelan. All spoke optimistically about Durrow's future after the motorway because of the area's strong community spirit.
