Fantastic response to survey

THERE has been an amazing initial response to the launch of a survey to ascertain the views of locals regarding a major rejuvenation of their town.

As reported in this newspaper last week, the future of Balbriggan is set to be transformed through a €20 million-plus rejuvenation plan. 

In its first two days over 2,000 people took the ‘Our Balbriggan’ survey on balbriggan.ie, the results of which will shape the order of priorities for a list of improvements to transform the town.

A packed launch heard Balbriggan Leadership group member and Fingal Deputy Mayor Cllr Grainne Maguire praise the instant reaction of local people to the call to get involved in the public consultation programme.

“This town has real heart and we have shown by our overwhelming response that we are going to pull together and get involved in the ‘Our Balbriggan’ process in an unprecedented way,” said Cllr Maguire.

Over 200 people attended the launch and in addition there have been hundreds of face-to-face engagements throughout the week at peak times at the railway station, well-attended public and local schools’ world café events and a steady flow of locals to view the draft plan.

Fingal County Council chief executive Paul Reid emphasised that the council is fully committed to the town of Balbriggan and the implementation of the plan in every way.

“I know there have been false dawns before that have not progressed for a myriad of reasons but on this occasion the resources, both human and financial have been allocated,” said Mr Reid.

“The last remaining piece required is to finalise the plan through the public engagement element.”

Mr Reid pointed out that the council has not been waiting on this plan to be completed to take action.

“Over the last few months we have implemented a range of actions in the area, including completion of the Stephenstown Link Road servicing 53 acres of industrial land for the town with the potential for up to 900 jobs,” he said.

“We have implemented an improved maintenance regime for the beach, completed a heritage trail for the town which will be installed and launched in December, returned the dome to the lighthouse and held the Festival of Fire safe Halloween event.

“Balbriggan will have free town centre Wi-Fi in early 2019 and will also be featured in RTE’s Operation Transformation next year.”

• Every resident is being asked to Get Involved and have their say via the online survey which can be found on Balbriggan.ie or on the #ourbalbriggan social media platforms.