Derelict Laois cottage cleared of 'illegal encampment' now a target for dumping

A Laois councillor is calling for a forced legal buyout by Laois County Council of a derelict cottage in Mountrath hit with illegal activity.

Cllr James Kelly says there are problems with the cottage on Shannon Street for the past five years.

The houses windows are now blocked up and a large boulder blocks entry to its small field.

“A Compulsory Purchase Order was put on it, it's going on for five years. I am trying to get some clarity and finality.

“An illegal encampment was removed from it. The situation is that there is still illegal activity there.

“There is dumping and it is a haven for anti-social behaviour.

“I made enquiries to the council but it seems to be a dead end. A solicitor has retired,” he said.

He spoke at the January meeting of Laois Council Council.

The Director of Services for Housing, Angela McEvoy said she would follow up with an update on the issue.

The manager's report at the meeting, outlined several measures underway to tackle degeneration in Mountrath.

It stated that the Town Regeneration Officer is liaising with derelict sites staff to give notices on several vacant buildings in Mountrath “that have been causing concern”.

The Mountrath Town Team is applying for money under the 2023 Town and Village Renewal Scheme. 

Ahe Commercial Vacant building incentive scheme was launched in Mountrath last October. 

A landscape plan was finalised for the town last November.