‘Developers are taking us for a ride’ - Sligo Councillors fume over update to Ballisodare’s Mill Apartment complex

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

A motion before the May meeting of the Sligo-Drumcliffe Municipal District brought an angry reaction from Councillors when an update was sought in relation to the Mill Apartments in Ballisodare.

It had previously been indicated that Sligo County Council were in discussions with the owners regarding the possibility of purchasing 30 of the 72 apartments, but matters have not progressed with the local authority still awaiting details of costings.

Director of Services Emer Concannon informed the Municipal District meeting the building has been placed on the derelict sites list noting a levy applies, although she cautioned, “It is not a huge sum.”

She added, the building remains in “private ownership”, confirming, “We have open communications with the owners, we are working with them to move the project on.”

Ms Concannon confirmed, “No decision has been made regarding purchasing properties. We have asked the developer to cost it.”

Cllr Thomas Healy’s motion sought an update asking, “The developer is currently finalising revised costings to upgrade the apartments to current Building Regulation standards. On completion of these costings, a timescale for the works will be sought from the property owners. This is what we were told in November 2025, has it been done?”

Cllr Healy’s motion also asked, “Is it still the intention of Sligo County Council to purchase 30 units for social or affordable housing having engaged with the department on this matter? Has Sligo County Council and the housing department put a timescale on when we will see this project starting. How much is the Government investment in the development and if Sligo County Council does not purchase the 30 units does the project still go ahead?”

The Vacant Old Mill Apartments at Ballisodare

Speaking to the motion Cllr Healy hit out at the owners of the derelict apartment complex and bemoaned the fact that the building has become an eyesore in Ballisodare.

“The owners of the building have not informed the Council regarding the cost.”

Cllr Healy thanked Sligo County Council for putting the building on the derelict properties list adding, “These developers are taking us for a ride again. How long more are we going to let this crowd drag this out.”

Cllr Healy insisted, “It’s an eyesore in that village, and it has been since 2009.”

The general public would like to see it flattened. We need to see action taken

Cllr Healy noted in November Councillors were told a report would be made available in which the developers would outline the costs involved but to date, that has not been furnished.

Calling for some of the derelict sites levy to be “ringfenced for the people of Ballisodare,” Cllr Healy said, “We need to put more pressure on them.”

Cllr Healy asked for a timeframe for the owners to come up with costings saying, “When will they come up with estimates,” adding, “The general public would like to see it flattened. We need to see action taken.”

The motion received overwhelming support with Cllr Thomas Walsh commenting, “It is frustrating that we are not moving in, but I know how frustrating it is for the local authority. We are dealing with a large organisation for whom this building may not mean that much.”

Cllr Walsh added, “A decision will have to be made unless private developers come forward with money to finish to modern building standards. We know they want to finish to old standards.”

It is ridiculous to think we can allow a building like this to exist

Noting the “Growing frustration in Ballisodare,” Cllr Walsh added, “The local authority is doing as much as possible. The Department are going to have to get more involved.”

The motion was also supported by Cllr Edel McSharry who reiterated the view that assistance is required from the Department to resolve the long-running saga that has seen the building fall further into a state of dilapidation.

“Something needs to be done at departmental level. It is ridiculous to think we can allow a building like this to exist. I know the Council have done everything legally in their power to get matters resolved.”

Cllr Donal Gilroy also voiced his support for the motion and expressed his frustration that no resolution has yet been found saying, “I would like to pay tribute to the Council and Council staff. We are not accepting substandard housing.”

Cllr Marie Casserly also gave the motion her backing commenting, “I do think legislation needs to be tightened. The owners are under no pressure.”

The debate came to a close with Cllr Healy insisting, “No developer is over the law. In my eyes this developer is getting a sweet deal. For him to be dictating what should be done, I don’t think that’s right.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.