Laois town's unused field wanted for social housing

An unused field between a Laois town's housing estates should get houses for older tenants, a local councillor suggests.

However others want it reserved for a school to expand.

The field is owned by Laois County Council, and it lies between St Brigid's Place and Highfield Meadows in Portlaoise.

Cllr Thomasina Connell tabled a motion to the February meeting of Portlaoise Municipal District, asking to investigate the suitability of it for single story social housing for older people.

She said just a portion of the field could be used, with the part being considered for use by St Francis School to be excluded.

"These lands are accessed from the rear of St Brigid's Place at the top of the hill. In the past it was a playing field, but anti-social behaviour led to that being prevented. There is continued dumping on it. 

"There would be scope for St Francis School to expand recreation area for children. I understand the council is open to that. It's important for the council to engage and see could we do bungalows or maisonettes. Two storey houses would overlook others. Access would need to be considered carefully as it is limited. It is important that we would get feedback from the community," Cllr Connell said.

Her mtion was seconded by Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley.

"This came up at our housing SPC meeting. The site is being looked at by the council. The key is consultation with residents. Through the years we got conflicting views, some wanted it used, others felt it was their field. 

"This is not just affecting St Brigid's residents, but Borris Little and Highfield and St Francis School. If they need to extend, it is vital they are part of this. 

"I agree that access is going to be the problem. I ask that it comes to us before a definite decision is made. We don't want to read it in the paper that 50 or 60 houses are going in before we give input," Cllr Dwane Stanley said.

Cllr Connell told her she was thinking of maybe six maisonettes.

Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald said "I'd be very wary of taking land from St Francis School".

"They are already building on. All schools are oversubscribed and we as councillors should leave room for development at any school," she said.

Director of Services Simon Walton said that he and Director for Housing Angela McEvoy had been asked to meet the school principal to discuss any need for expansion.

"We met twice, we discussed various issues with them. The constraints of this site are vehicular access, and what type of development the land could accommodate.

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"We got a revised layout, but nothing can proceed without consultation with members and the community. The final layout is still under development. Once agreed it will be brought to members.

Housing units may be linked to residentsin the area who might be downsizing, and could provide some oversight to a school amenity," Mr Walton added.