COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

MOTION NO. 11

MOTION: Councillor W. Lavelle

"That this Area Committee requests the Manager to provide an update on the Lucan Community Development Initiative including any proposals to secure the most effective use of Lucan Sports & Leisure Centre; and further requests the Manager to actively engage with local groups in need of permanent indoor space in the Lucan area, including Esker Amateur Boxing Clubs Griffeen CDG, Dancity Ireland and the 142nd/180th Esker/Lucan South Scouts, including where feasible through provision of sites which could then be developed by groups on their own or in partnership."

REPORT:

The community services team is actively engaged in a scoping exercise to identify and quantify the sporting/ community needs of the Lucan area. This process, which is named the Lucan Development Initiative, will identify the collective needs and provide the basis for the development of an agreed strategy to address the deficit. All local organisations are being invited to engage in this action and the LDI is now entering its second stage. A questionaire/survey will be circulated in the next two weeks to over 150 groups to collate their data. A copy of this list will be circulated to all lucan councillors so that any gaps can be identified. The third phase will consist of two public meetings, immediately after the October bank holiday which will be hosted in two local hotels (dates to be confirmed). This will give interested parties, that are not on the database the opportunity to engage. The team will then examine the findings and direct contact may then be made with the key stakeholders if additional information is required. A detailed report will then be generated which will shape the strategy. This initiative , which is the largest ever undertaken by the depattment, is being delivered within the limited resources available.

In tandem with managing the LDI, the team have continued to examine and identify funding options to improve facilities in the Lucan area. Together with Architect's Department a grant (40%) has been secured from SEAI to upgrade Lucan Leisure Centre. The works include cavity wall insulation to external walls, new gas boiler, replacement windows and modifications to the first floor layout. By upgrading the insulation, lighting and heating systems the centre will be able to provide a more comfortable environment for the existing members, staff and local groups. The new works will also ensure that the facility complies with accessibility and fire regulations.

In order to draw down the SEAI grant the works must be completed within a tight timeframe. Arrangements are being made to decant customers to other facilities so that the works can be completed within a 5/6 week timeframe. Information will be posted on the Lucan site www.lucanleisure.com and updates will be posted on Facebook.