Golf club works at Rosses Point beach are subject to enforcement proceedings by Sligo County Council

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

Following a motion brought before Sligo County Council in relation to access to the second beach at Rosses Point it has been confirmed that works carried out by Co Sligo Golf Club are subject to proceedings from the council.

This came to light after a motion brought before the Council by Cllr Declan Bree sought clarification in relation to proposed works that would see a boardwalk installed to create greater access to the second beach which has been hampered as a result of the protective rock armour that has been put in place there.

Explaining the current state of affairs in Rosses Point, Cllr Bree explained, “The existing concrete ramp is the only public access to the beach and access is restricted during high tides when the lower section of the ramp is under water.

“People can now only safely access the beach for the short period when the tide recedes. The alternative is to climb over a concrete fence or to climb over the rock armour.

“Young people and people who are agile can manage the obstacle course of the fence or the boulders, but for many people it means the enjoyment of walking the second beach is denied to them.”

Outlining the timeline of events, Cllr Bree explained, “Nine months ago when I sought an update on this matter I was very pleased to learn that a potential route for the boardwalk had been identified and this was to be discussed with relevant stakeholders including the National Parks and Wild Service and the County Sligo Golf Club.

“However, I must express my concern regarding the report that we have been provided with today. According to the report, approximately half of the design work for the boardwalk was completed last Christmas.

"The report further states that the County Sligo Golf Club carried out extensive work at the location and this has had a significant impact on the design work carried out to date by the Council and the project is now on hold, pending assessment of the works carried out by the golf club.

“I must admit I am at a loss to understand as to how or why the extensive works carried out by the golf club in January was approved, given the significant and serious impact it would have on the Council’s design work.”

Seeking clarification on the situation, Cllr Bree said, “This appears to be a significant setback for the project.”

In reply to Cllr Bree, Director of Services, Emer Concannon said, “The works carried out wasn’t approved by the environmental Department. We expect about 50% of the original plans can go ahead.”

When asked if any action is being taken against the golf club, Ms Concannon replied “The works are subject to proceedings from the council.”

In reply Cllr Bree said, “The enforcement section of the Council is taking action and I welcome that.”

Cllr Thomas Walsh also addressed the meeting saying, “It is important we are fair on the golf club, they are the local owner. They are very open to an access route through their land. I know the golf club carried out works to prevent further deterioration to the coast line.

"It is unfortunate the land owner has to go to these measures, people are at a last resort. I don’t welcome any enforcement action,” added Cllr Walsh.

When asked by Cllr Edel McSharry if the golf club were cooperating with the Council, Ms Concannon replied, “To the best of my knowledge they are.”