Town Councillor Bray Town Council
What has Ciaran achieved?
- Secured Special Amenity Order for Bray Head. Achieved through agreement with Bray and Wicklow Councils and finally with Bord Pleanala in April of last year, this order (one of only four in the country) ensures that Bray Head must be managed in a manner that will improve amenity and it ensures no inappropriate development, such as housing. A management committee is now established and, as chairman of this committee, we have commenced tree planting and aiming to improve walks.
- Within one week of this order, Minister John Gormley following my recommendation, directed Wicklow County Council to place a similar order on both the Little and Great Sugarloaf (there will be no housing on the Sugarloafs). This aims to connect a walkway from Bray to the Wicklow Way, promoting local amenity and tourism.
- The Recycling Centre only got started due to the full support of the Green Party. Record funds now available from the Department of the Environment for this centre.
- Ensured investment in Bray Sewerage Treatment plant (now under construction) resulting in cleaner, safer beaches- completion date 2011
- Challenged the council on planning issues notably, the Golf Club lands - when the council officials in agreement with the Labour, Fianna Fail and Fine Gael councillors passed plans to develop without the LUAS and on a flood plain. After a costly and lengthy battle, the Board agreed with my appeal and refused. The application now before the Board includes the LUAS to connect to Bray.
- On heritage, the Green Party listed a number of structures for protection, including the Parochial Hall. Tree protection orders put in place.
- Ensured public buildings, such as the boathouses, were handed over to local youth clubs.
- Promoted Banning of Sex Shops, Lap Dancing Clubs & Head shops Selling BZP
- Supported Residents with planning issues.
- Ensured the placement of a number of disability crossings on Strand Road.
- Increased enforcement on littering.
As chairman of Bray Planning Policy Committee I introduced to Bray the highest energy policy for new housing in Ireland and generally ensured no inappropriate development. Initiated town rejuvenation including, flowers and repainting of all building in the town centre. In 2008, I was elected Chairman of Bray Town Council. As chairman I have introduced tree preservation orders, new playgrounds, reinstated Florence Rd car park and opened Bray swimming pool.
Green policies did not get us into this economic mess but will help get us out.
The Green Party is promoting a robust economy less prone to external shocks. For this to happen our entire economy must move in a greener direction. Our €30bn investment in clean energy over the next decade will reduce our fossil fuel bill, keeping energy investment and jobs in Ireland. Transforming our country to a low-carbon economy offers the best long-term bet for recovery, for investment and lasting jobs. ‘Green Collar’ jobs in Bray and Wicklow could be created through renewable energy, trade skills such as green plumbing, construction of energy efficient buildings, renewable energy, horticulture, wind power, local food production, wood chip industry, recycling and waste reduction. Over 50% of new jobs created are ‘green jobs’
A sustainable approach to economic development must be a core part of our future.
Current Priorities
- Ensure a Clean & Transparent Planning Process by scrutiny of all planning matters brought to my attention by the public
- Improved Flood Protection, Water & Sewerage Infrastructure. Progress plans for an added drainage system on Bray Head that will direct run off from built up areas to the cove. Working to ensure Dargle Area flood protection
- A Permanent Home for Bray Lakers. Lodged an appeal to An Bord Pleanala for Bray Lakers on the Old Bray Golf Club Lands. As Chairman of Bray Town Council I have received full support from management to deliver a site for Bray Lakers
- Protecting our Landscapes & Green Spaces with a Special Amenity Order for both Sugarloafs, which will be an added amenity for both locals and tourists that will connect the Wicklow Way to Bray by walkway.
- Supporting Local Enterprise - Promoting new Enterprise Centre for Bray, Town Rejuvenation, supporting a suitably sized shopping centre and cinema for the centre of the Town. Investment in insulation, Higher building standards, renewable energy and ‘green collar’ jobs for Bray and Wicklow.
- Transport: Bray Dart Station to become a transport hub with LUAS, improved bicycle area, and improved public transport to station
- Restoration of Bray’s Unique Esplanade and reinstatement of Victorian seating financed in part by plaques on seating.
- Promote allotments, cycle lanes and community gardens.