Ballymote Local Area Plan, Sligo County Council

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Ballymote Local Area Plan

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Section 1: Legalities and Guidance for Ballymote

Section 2: From Past to Present

Section 3: The Future of Ballymote

Section 4: Realising the Potential

Section 5: Good for the Future - Environmental Support

Appendices

Section 1: Legalities & Guidance for Ballymote

1.1 The Need for this Plan

The purpose of this Local Area Plan (LAP) is to provide a comprehensive level of detail as to the desired manner and pattern of growth for the Ballymote area. It is the primary objective of this LAP to ensure the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, and as such it must be consistent with the objectives of the current Sligo County Development Plan 2005 - 2011. All policies and objectives referred to in the County Development Plan (CDP) apply to Ballymote and it is important to note that should any conflicts arise the CDP supersedes the content of the LAP.

The Plan provides a detailed framework for the future sustainable development of Ballymote having regard to social, economic and environmental requirements, as well as the associated infrastructural needs of those living and working in the area. Particular regard is also had for natural landscape features, archaeological/historical features of interest, open space needs (active and passive), and existing topography. The Plan will guide and regulate development through strategic environmental parameters, land use zoning measures, planning policies and development objectives.

Legalities

The Ballymote LAP is prepared in accordance with Sections 18, 19 and 20 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, which sets out provisions for the preparation of Local Area Plans. It is also in accordance with the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive (2001/42/EC), the objective of which is to ‘provide for a high level of protection of the environment and to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans…’ The Plan will be in effect for a period of six years following its adoption. The Council may at any time amend or revoke the LAP.

The Vision

The aim of this LAP is to bring a cohesive and rational structure to the development of Ballymote. The main objectives of this Plan will focus on improving the residential land supply, commercial fabric and office and enterprise product of the town so that Ballymote can provide for the service needs of the surrounding hinterland. This shall be carried out in a sustainable manner by extending amenities and open space areas, protecting the natural environment, and ensuring an improved supply of the necessary physical and social infrastructure (such as water, sewage network, road links, as well as community facilities) to enable future development.

In order to promote quality development patterns in the study area an urban design framework is also included. This addresses issues such as street layout and design, landscaping, and specific guidelines on key sites within the town.

1.2 What’s already been said - Relevant Policies and Guidance

When formulating this LAP account needs to be taken of the existing policy documents at National, Regional and Local level which could influence the Ballymote area.

National Level

The National Spatial Strategy for Ireland 2002 – 2020 (NSS) is a twenty-year strategy to guide and achieve more balanced social, economic and physical development between regions. Such a Strategy will allow all areas in the country to develop to their full potential. The Strategy recognises the interdependence of urban and rural areas and the role, which rural towns play within the spatial network in terms of flows of people and services. Ballymote due to its location and rail transport links to Sligo is seen as a ‘rural area opportunity’ and should be developed as part of the network of urban and rural centres in this region.

The Ballymote LAP must comply with the principles of development espoused at national level through the NSS. The Planning and Development Act, 2000 specifically requires planning authorities to have regard to ministerial guidelines from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG) and hence the following national policy documents have been regarded:

National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020
Sustainable Development, A Strategy for Ireland, 1997
National Development Plan 2000-2006
The White Paper on Rural Development, 1999
The Rural Transport Initiative, 2001
National Anti-Poverty Strategy, 1997-2007
National Children’s Strategy, 2000
Guidelines for Planning Authorities:
- Strategic Environmental Assessment,
- Sustainable Rural Housing,
- Architectural Heritage Protection,
- Wind Farm Development,
- Childcare Facilities,
- Landscape and Landscape Assessment (Draft),
- Part V (Planning & Development Act), 2000 Housing Supply,
- Residential Density,
- Retail Planning,
- Telecommunication Antennae and Support Structures.

Regional Level

The objective of the Regional Strategy and Regional Planning Guidelines for the Border Region, 2004, is to provide a long-term strategic planning framework for the development of the Border Region in the next twenty-year period. The Border Region consists of the counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth and one of its key goals is to implement the NSS in the region and to identify a hierarchy of regionally significant settlements with a range of economic, social and cultural functions. Within the settlement strategy Ballymote has been identified as a ‘small sized town for urban strengthening’, which would perform an important local role to the surrounding hinterland. Thereby necessitating appropriate development and investment.

Local Level

The ‘County Sligo Integrated Strategy 2002-2012’, by the County Development Board was established to develop an integrated strategy for the economic, social and cultural development of the County from 2002 to 2012. Consultation was carried out involving representatives of local government, local development interests, state agencies, the community and voluntary sector, social partners and the general public. The primary goal of this Strategy is to achieve balanced spatial development, social inclusion, and the enhancement of our living culture.

Some of the key findings of the County Development Board, which are relevant to Ballymote, are to:

Develop the necessary infrastructure to link Sligo regionally, nationally and internationally.
Develop a commuter rail service between Sligo, Ballymote, Boyle and Carrick-on-Shannon.
Increase the coverage and capacity of energy, electricity and telecommunications networks in the County.
Develop and sustain rural services.
Continue to develop accessible and affordable sporting and recreational opportunities.
Increase the amount of quality workspace throughout the County.
Ensure all developments take place in an economic and environmentally sustainable manner.

The Sligo County Development Plan 2005 – 2011

One of the main aims for the CDP is to ‘develop the full potential of each part of the County to contribute to the optimal performance of the County as a whole – economically, socially and environmentally’.

Some of the key policies of the CDP, which are relevant to Ballymote, are listed below:

Promote Ballymote as a ‘Key Support Town’, serving the south and southeast of the County. In order for this to be carried out successfully the range and quality of facilities and services offered in the support town will need to be improved.
Promote enterprise in the Key Support Towns.
Promote the development potential of Ballymote in order to support investment in existing rail infrastructure.
Revitalise the town through the promotion of development within built up areas (particularly on infill sites, vacant sites and on backlands), in preference to continued ribbon development on the approach roads. This will promote the efficient use of available public infrastructure and services.
Work in partnership with local development and community associations, to examine ways of promoting and sustaining the character and service provisions of the town.

The map on the following page (Map 1: County Development Plan Settlement Concept) illustrates the status and role of Ballymote within the Settlement Strategy for County Sligo. This map has been taken from the current CDP.

Map 1 County Development Plan Settlement Concept

Section 2: From Past to Present

2.1 Once Upon a Time - Historical Development

Ballymote, once the second largest town in the County, is an important historical, agricultural, educational and economic centre. The town was known as ‘Atha Cliath an Chorainn’, ‘the ford of the hurdles of Corran’. However in 1300 Richard de Burgo erected a castle in which to protect his newly won possessions in Sligo. The name Ballymote was derived from this castle (Baile an Mhota – homestead of the castle mound). The castle is a Recorded Monument SL033-092 and was used up until the late 17th Century. Soon after this the fortifications were made harmless, the moat was filled up and the castle fell into ruins. Richard de Burgo during his time in Ballymote also financed the construction of a road running through the town linking Boyle to Collooney.

Map 2A Ballymote - 1847

The Book of Ballymote, written in Ballymote Castle, c1391, is a unique manuscript containing genealogical, topographical and biblical material. The book is now preserved in the Royal Irish Academy.

Three brothers, in 1442, founded Ballymote Friary, which is sited across the road from the castle. However, like most religious houses throughout Ireland, it did not survive the Reformation. The remnants of the friary are located adjacent to Ballymote Catholic Church and are surrounded by a graveyard. The medieval ruin is rectangular with a large east window, under which stood the main altar.

Map 2B Ballymote - 1911

Significant prehistoric remains are also prevalent in the immediate vicinity of Ballymote town, including complex ancient field systems, house sites, barrows, enclosures and ringforts. These findings indicate that farmers were attracted to the Ballymote area at least 3,000 years ago.

The modern development of Ballymote appears to date from the late 18th Century with Earlsfield House (now the Convent of Mercy) being built by the Fitzmaurice’s who established a linen-manufacturing base in the town. Shortly after this a bleach Mill was erected to the south of the town, the remains of which can still be seen today. These industries gave a boost to the development of the town and gave rise to the building of a number of residences in which to house the workers.

In 1837, according to the Topographical Dictionary of Ireland, by Samuel Lewis, Ballymote town contained 875 inhabitants and was situated on the junction of six roads containing 140 houses. (Maps 2A, 2B & 2C show the progression of Ballymote since 1847).

Map 2C Ballymote - 1941

2.2 The Look - Setting and Form

Ballymote is located 24km (15 miles) to the south of Sligo City in the southeast of the County. The entire area lies within the administrative jurisdiction of Sligo County Council and incorporates the townlands of Camross, Stoneparks, Carrowcauley, Rathnakelliga, Keenaghan, Maghera, Carrownanty and Ballymote itself.

The Bricklieve Mountains are positioned 6km to the southeast of Ballymote with the hill of Kesh Corann providing a picturesque backdrop to the town. Numerous caves have been found in the limestone sediment of this hill revealing evidence of human presence dating from the Neolithic and early Christian times.

The town is serviced by the main Dublin – Sligo railway line providing Ballymote with an important strategic transport link.

The topography of the town is undulating with the majority of the town lying at a height of 60 – 80m above sea level. The northeast of the town and environs rises to a height of 120m. (See Contour Map, Map 3)

2.3 People Picture – Demographic Analysis and Population Projections

The Electoral Division (ED) of Ballymote covers Ballymote town and surrounding rural environs. This LAP is mainly concerned with the population of the town itself. The 2002 Census recorded a population of 981 persons living within the town. Between 1996 and 2002 the population of Ballymote declined by 1.3%. This is interesting as housing applications and actual house completions for the area have increased significantly since 1998. This anomaly is most likely due to a drop in household size and Section 23 tax incentives1, which apply to the Ballymote area.

Age Profile

The younger dependent population (those aged between 0 – 14 years) is equivalent to the State figures of 21%. However, the older dependent population figures (65+) are significantly higher in Ballymote 19% when compared to the State figure of 11%. This could be due, in part, to the presence of the St. Vincent de Paul elderly housing scheme and the nursing home located within the town. This needs to be taken account of when looking at the provision of amenities and facilities within Ballymote.

There are a significantly lower proportion of people between the ages of 15 – 44 living in Ballymote (36%) compared to State figures (47%). This may be related to young adults out-migrating to larger urban areas in order to continue their education, training and also to access a larger job market. Ballymote needs to be seen as an appealing place in which to live and work thereby attracting young adults, couples and families into the area. (See Appendix A, Table 1)

Employment Profile

47% of the population of Ballymote were in gainful employment at the time of the 2002 Census with the unemployment rate for Ballymote comparable to the national average of 5%.

The retiree profile (17%) was higher than the State figures (11%), due to the high proportion of the population aged 65+, which is most likely attributable to the nursing home and elderly housing units within the town. (See Appendix A, Table 2)

Occupational Profile

Ballymote had a lower percentage of professionals than that of the State, 15% in comparison to 23% respectively. However, the manufacturing and building industry appears strong in Ballymote with 28% of the population gainfully employed in these areas. (See Appendix A, Table 3)

Educational Profile

The percentage of the population who were educated to upper secondary (32%) is slightly higher than the State figures (29%). However, the proportion of educational attainment to third level was significantly lower in Ballymote (19%) than the State (26%) in 2002. This emphasises the fact that future policy for the town will need to focus on an increase in educational attainment in the interest of providing a skilled workforce, which could strengthen Ballymote’s business, enterprise and entrepreneurial base. (See Appendix A, Table 4)

Housing Structure

According to the 2002 Census there were a total of 354 households in Ballymote, an increase of 29 houses since the 1996 Census. This seems set to intensify even further. In the last number of years there has been a significant increase in planning permissions and actual units under construction throughout Ballymote. From 1998 to the date of survey (August 2004) approximately 282 units had either been completed or were currently under construction. This is a significant increase to the housing stock of Ballymote.

In addition to this there has been a total of 296 units granted planning permission since 1998. Therefore between ‘new-build’ and ‘potential build’ there may be a possible increase of 578 units within the town of Ballymote.

Figure 1: Housing Application Survey (1998 – 2004)
Total granted planning applications for housing	296 units
Total completions & units under construction	282 units
Total:	578 units

Source: Desktop Study of planning applications since 1998 – August 2004 and on-site surveys.

The average persons per household in Ballymote in 1996 were 3%, comparable to the national average of 3.14%. However, since 1996, there has been a dramatic decrease in household size in Ballymote to the current figure of 2.75 persons per household in 2002. Nationally the average persons per household decreased to 2.94 within this time frame. This trend is set to continue in line with the European average of 2.6 persons per household.

Figure 2: Townland Data for Ballymote
Year	Population	Household	Average Persons Per Household
2002	981	354	2.75%
1996	994	325	3%

Source: Central Statistics Office, Census of Population, 2002 & 1996

Key issues that emerge from a review of population trends include:

The current Census shows that the population of Ballymote declined slightly from 1996 to 2002. However, it is clear from on-site surveys and application analysis that this is not to remain the case. The population of Ballymote looks set to increase considerably within the next few years owing to the high amounts of housing units currently under construction and the large number of units granted planning permission.
Although the population slightly decreased from 1996 – 2002 the number of individual households increased. This shows that although a population may decrease the demand for additional housing can still be strong as household sizes fall. This decline may have a knock-on effect on the type and size of houses needed within the town.
A significant amount of Ballymote’s population is over the age of 65. If this trend were to continue the dependent population could become too large for the town to become self-sufficient. Therefore, a balance needs to be struck to create a vibrant, mixed community.

Possible future population

Projections are based on a range of factors for which assumptions must be made. Ballymote has been identified as a Key Support Town for the southeast region of Sligo, the task of which is to assist in promoting, sustaining and diversifying the rural economy. In order for Ballymote to achieve this, population growth needs to occur in the town. The Sligo County Development Plan 2005-2011 has allowed for a possible increase of 2,500 – 4,000 persons within Ballymote to 2011 and beyond. These figures were formulated from a strategic sense when looking at growth within the entire County. The figures represent the long-term target population, ensuring a critical mass for the necessary supply of services and facilities within Ballymote.

2.4 Ballymote Today

Map 4, illustrates the existing land uses in Ballymote. Development has occurred, to some extent, along all the approach roads entering the town. The main town centre is focused along the junction of Teeling Street and Lord Edward Street with some commercial and retailing activity located along O’Connell Street. However, in the last number of years, the town centre functions seem to be over-spilling onto Emmet Street and Cattle Mart Street.

Residential development is evident throughout the town. Older terraced residential developments have been integrated within the town centre with a number of newer residential estates having been built on the approach. The majority of which consist of low density detached and semi-detached housing. There are three local authority housing estates in Ballymote, Marren Park to the north of the town, Hillview estate to the southeast and a newly developed social and affordable housing scheme to the northwest.

A significant amount of land within Ballymote falls under community-facility use. There are three schools in the area, two churches, a community hall, agricultural training centre, pastoral centre, graveyards, fire station, Garda station, nursing home, health centre, library and creches. If Ballymote is to experience significant additional growth, within the next six years, it will be very important that sufficient community facilities are established, catering for all age groups.

Ballymote has the potential to increase its tourism potential. At present there are a number of B&B’s within the town and one hotel. Ballymote Castle and the nearby Caves of Kesh provide the town with a rich historic base from which to promote tourism. Also the lakes and rivers in the surrounding environs of Ballymote are ideal for coarse angling.

Ballymote acts as a service centre for the surrounding rural community of southeast Sligo. Commercial development within the town core comprises of a number of convenience stores, cafes, public houses, co-op store, furniture store, hardware store, pharmacies, supermarkets, leisure and beauty facilities, restaurants etc. To provide for a growing population base, the town may need to expand upon its commercial and retail function in the future.

There is a variety of industrial and office enterprise in Ballymote comprising of a cattle mart, a number of banks, post office, auctioneers, accountants, solicitors and a couple of manufacturing industries. Continuing Industry and office development is important for Ballymote in terms of developing a self-sustaining town and not a town whose sole economy is based on commuting to larger urban centres.

Open space and recreational facilities are an important component of a town’s social outlet. Ballymote Park was established in 2000 and is located to the west of the town, stretching from the L-6032 (to Templehouse) in the north to the R293 (to Gorteen) in the south. It provides the town with an important amenity and civic space and also gives the area an appropriate setting from which to view the historic Ballymote Castle. The R296 (to Tobercurry) divides the park, however a pedestrian link was maintained by constructing a tunnel under the road from the north park to the south park. A children’s playground has been developed at the north entrance of the park.

The town’s sports grounds are located to the north of Ballymote, comprising of two pitches for football and GAA. Ballymote also boasts an 18-hole golf course located just outside the town to the southeast.

Map 3 - Contours

Map 4 - Existing Land Use

Section 3: The Future of Ballymote

3.1 Room to Develop – Capacity for Expansion

In determining the development boundary, the current piecemeal form of development and the need for a more compact urban form were considered. CDP policy stipulates the importance of consolidation, see section 1.2, page 3.

Within the town core itself there are numerous undeveloped sites available for infill development consisting of a total land area of 29 acres (11 hectares). Both infill and backland development will be encouraged to assist in consolidating the existing town core. In determining possible future lands for development, the physical constraints to development and the capacity of the land need to be examined ensuring the successful identification and development of prime lands.

Map 5, Capacity Study, provisionally outlines future areas for the town’s expansion and development incorporating potential lands for infill development, backland areas and lands currently granted planning permission.

The Environment

There are no areas of National or European environmental designation within Ballymote or its environs. However there are a number of noteworthy environmental features, such as significant trees and hedgerows, archaeological sites, waterways etc, which should be preserved and possibly integrated into the fabric of the town. (See Map 6, Environmental Parameters).

The recreational open spaces within Ballymote provide the town with a picturesque setting. As the town develops further open space linkages and linear parks should be established, encircling Ballymote, so as to provide the town with a meaningful open space network.

Ballymote’s topography is slightly undulating and certain landscape views need to be protected. Visually vulnerable areas such as ridgetops should generally be kept free from development and incorporated into areas of open space. The topography of the town rises to a height of 120m in the northeast. The servicing of this area may prove problematic and could be visually obtrusive therefore development should be focused on lower-lying land.

Other natural features such as significant tree groups and hedgerows can assist in assimilating development into the landscape. There are a number of significant tree groupings and hedgerows in and around the town. (See Map 6, Environmental Parameters).

A significant amount of land in and around Ballymote includes sites of archaeological interest. Development should not occur in near proximity to these historical sites. Appropriate access and linkages to these sites is important in terms of environmental and cultural sustainability for the town.

Infrastructural Considerations

To relieve possible future pressure on existing routes, from an expanded population base, there will be a need for the development of auxiliary roads. This will also enable the opening up of backlands within the existing town structure for future development purposes.

Map 5 - Capacity Study

Map 6 Environmental Parameters

The water supply for Ballymote is currently sourced from the Lough Talt Regional Supply Scheme and has a design capacity for a population of 2,500. There are currently no operational difficulties within the system. It is considered that the existing water supply in Ballymote will be adequate to serve the potential population increase of over 2,000 persons. An intensive water conservation programme has been established to detect water leakages and repair. Also a water-metering programme for non-domestic consumers (including agricultural consumers) has been put in place. A massive reduction in ‘Unaccounted For Water’ (UFW) is expected through the implementation of these two programmes within a short timeframe of two years. Therefore it is not deemed necessary to increase the capacity of Ballymote’s water supply. However, this situation will need to be carefully monitored throughout the implementation and lifetime of this Plan.

The present capacity of the sewage treatment plant is insufficient to provide for the anticipated population increase over the next six years. In March of 2004, the load was 2,200 population equivalent (PE) with a maximum capacity of 3,000 PE in the existing works. A combined drainage system2 is in place within Ballymote town centre using gravity-fed sewers. Therefore in order to facilitate any population expansion of Ballymote, development will have to be carried out on a phased basis until the capacity of the current system can be increased.

3.2 The New Ballymote – Strategy Option

The Consolidated Development Model, identified for Ballymote, allows the growth of the town to occur in a sustainable manner as:

Optimal use is made of the surrounding lands,
Growth is focused in the town core providing Ballymote with a viable and vibrant centre,
Density levels, particularly higher densities within the town core, will contribute to the viability of public transport services, including a commuter rail service between Ballymote and Sligo. (See Map 7: Preferred Strategy Option: Consolidated Development Model).

This model focuses higher density development within the town core, with backland areas providing further development opportunities for the town’s expansion allowing for:

Variety and choice of location for future residents,
Services and facilities centred around one area, thereby reducing energy costs,
A distinct edge between urban and rural, thus enhancing the visual appearance of the area,
Reinforcement of the existing character and form of Ballymote.

This option would accommodate the proposed increase in population within the six-year timeframe of the Plan allowing for growth to take place in a sustainable, orderly and consolidated manner. (See Map 7).

Map 7 Preferred Strategy Option: Consolidated Development Model

Section 4: Realising the Potential

A Zoning Map (Map 15) has been prepared, which should be read in conjunction with the following sections. The Zoning Matrix outlines the possible uses for each category and is contained within Appendix B. It can be seen that development is somewhat constrained to the east in favour of a western emphasis. This reflects the current ‘drive’ to the west and also reduces pressure on the somewhat more sensitive topographical conditions to the east with the rising hills at Earlsfield, Bellanscarrow West and Keenaghan.

The town core operates effectively as the commercial hub of Ballymote and as such should continue with this emphasis. Therefore commercial or office development is to be focused on the mixed infill development zone within the town.

Higher residential densities have been proposed for the town centre with most residential development earmarked for the backland areas of the town aimed at a density of between 8–11 units per acre. However, it is important to give a choice of densities and therefore densities of less than 8 are proposed for areas which may be slightly more sensitive to development such as those at a height above the town and on approach roads where ribbon development is already evident.

An open space network has also been incorporated into the zoning for Ballymote. This provides the town with a recreational open space trail, which encircles the town core. Additional open space has also been zoned allowing for greenspace permeability through the residentially zoned backland areas.

Additional areas for industrial development have been zoned, which will allow for growth in this sector. Industrial lands have mainly been confined to the approach roads thereby ensuring direct access. Lands have been zoned for community facilities to allow for expansion.

4.1 Providing Housing

The current housing market in Ballymote seems to be buoyant, however a slight slow-down in the market has been noticed within the last 12 months. The majority of buyers entering the Ballymote market at present tend to be first-time buyers and investors. There are potential concerns of an over-supply of housing as the housing stock has significantly increased within the last number of years. (Refer back to Figure 1, Housing Application Survey).

The most popular house sizes within the town are three to four bedrooms. However, with a drop in household size two bed houses are becoming prevalent. There are a limited number of apartments for sale. Investors are mainly interested in the apartment market as higher prices can be gained from renting. Ground floor level apartments can be attractive to retirees and the elderly population.

There is adequate rented residential accommodation provided within Ballymote and to date the demand is good.

Further residential development is to be focused on backland and infill sites, allowing for permeability and circulation, and taking into account environmentally sensitive areas.

Lands to the east of the town are somewhat constrained by the topography as the land rises to a height of over 100m. This ridge to the east forms a natural development limit, which should be retained. In the southeast residential development has begun to creep out along the Keenaghan area, leading to a pattern of ribbon development, which results in the loss of a defined edge to the town. Apart from infilling of some identified gap sites, further development along this stretch of route way should not be encouraged.

It is believed that higher densities should be accommodated within the town centre with lower densities being accommodated further out. The proposed density classes are:

Density 1 = under 8 units per acre, (under 20 units per hectare)
Density 2 = 8 – 11 units per acre, (20 - 27 units per hectare)
Density 3 = 12+ units per acre, (circa 30+ units per hectare)

In total, the approximate areas allocated to each residential density class (excluding existing developed land and lands currently being developed) are:

D1 13 Acres, (5.3 hectares),
D2 138 Acres, (56 hectares),
D3 5 Acres, (2 hectares).

Also any residential development occurring within the Mixed Infill Development Zone will be subject to Density 3 allocations. It is assumed that residential units will be taken up 50% of the Mixed Infill Zone area. Therefore an additional 4 Acres, (1.6 hectares) will accommodate D3 densities.

Mixed Infill D3 4 Acres, (1.6 hectares).

Figure 3: Minimum growth:
Density	Minimum No. of Units Per Acre	Total Area in Acres	Min. No. of Housing Units	Population Equivalent
D1	1	13	13	36
D2	8	38	1,104	3,036
D3	12	9	108	297
Total	-	160 (65 ha)	1,225	3,369

Based on the assumption that the average household size is 2.75 persons per household.

Figure 4: Maximum growth:
Density	Maximum No. of Units Per Acre	Total Area in Acres	Max. No. of Housing Units	Population Equivalent
D1	7	13	91	250
D2	11	138	1,518	4,174
D3	12	9	108	297
Total	-	160 (65 ha)	1,717	4,721

Based on the assumption that the average household size is 2.75 persons per household.

The enlargement of the population base of Ballymote follows the CDPs settlement strategy creating a critical mass for Ballymote from which to develop a strong and dynamic Key Support Town status. (See Map 15: Zoning Map)

Objectives for Housing

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

H1 Ensure that suitable ranges of housing types are constructed in keeping with the existing and proposed future demographics of Ballymote town and encourage a mixture of housing types in new developments.
H2 Ensure that any services and utilities required in residential developments are provided concurrent with the construction of new dwellings.

4.2 Establishing Quality Networks - Natural Environment and Recreational Open Spaces

Significant hedgerows and tree groups are evident in and around Ballymote, such as the tree groups within Ballymote Park, around the former Corn Mill and in the northeast of the town adjacent to the convent school. These should be retained and incorporated where possible into any future development of the area. (As shown on Map 6: Environmental Parameters). Hedgerows and mature trees can be multi-functional. (See Value of Hedgerows)

The Ballymote railway line provides the town with an optimal wildlife corridor. The town park has been created alongside part of this railway line, which extends the opportunity for wildlife to migrate. In this way it is important for the various natural and semi-natural features and open space elements to link thereby guaranteeing flora and fauna dispersal throughout the town. This provides the town with an attractive setting and allows for interaction between humans and their surrounding natural environment.

A number of stream channels, drainage ditches and wetland areas occur within the surrounding environs of Ballymote. It is important, especially in terms of bio-diversity, to maintain these water sources by incorporating them into the framework of the Plan. Where this is not possible, an assessment will be needed of the areas concerned, acknowledging the possible environmental effects on these features and mitigating against any possible negative outcome.

Ballinascarrow Lake is situated one mile east of Ballymote. This lake holds stocks of bream, rudd, hybrids and carp. The North-Western Regional Fisheries Board are currently upgrading the existing facilities by adding stands, stiles and a car park.

The Owenmore River is located approximately two miles from the Ballymote-Ballinacarrow road. This river is important for fish stocks and is currently of good water quality.

The water quality of these waterways is not to be compromised by any development within Ballymote.

All the above components can assist in the integration of future development into the existing landscape while sustaining the natural visual image of the area.

Value of Hedgerows

Flooding Control – root systems of hedgerows regulate water movement and help prevent flooding.
Disease control – hedgerows help prevent the spread of airborne disease.
Water Quality – hedgerows trap silt and soil particles, which clog up fish spawning grounds if they enter watercourses.
Cultural/Historical – hedgerows are part of Ireland’s cultural, historical and archaeological heritage. Townland boundary hedgerows are particularly important as they can often date from medieval times.
Wildlife – as the area of native woodlands in Ireland is small, hedgerows have become very important wildlife habitats. They provide food, shelter, and corridors of movement, nest and hibernation sites for many of our native flora and fauna.
Screening – hedgerows when incorporated into urban developments provide screening and can greatly enhance the scenic quality of the area.

In terms of recreational open space Ballymote’s main area is its town park, which is approximately 11 acres, (4.45 hectares), in size running from the north of the town to the south. Sports pitches are located to the north of the town, a small area of passive open space has been provided outside the old court house on Teeling Street and various incidental amenity open spaces are located within the residential housing estates.

The town park provides Ballymote with a high quality open space environment from which to expand upon. If the population of Ballymote is set to increase not only will open space need to be meaningfully accommodated within individual housing developments but further public open space will need to be provided. Therefore specific tracts of land need to be reserved to link open spaces and maintain areas in the interest of visual natural amenity and bio-diversity.

The aim of this Plan is to establish an open space network within Ballymote incorporating key landscape features such as:

Views,
Archaeological features,
Stream corridors,
Significant hedgerows and mature trees.

It is the intention of this Plan to allow for pedestrian circulation around the town by way of open space links. These links could be informal areas with informal tree planting reducing both development and maintenance costs.

Objectives for Establishing Quality Networks

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

OS1 Establish an open space network encircling Ballymote incorporating the key landscape features of:
- Ballymote Castle, Town Park and Friary,
- The former Corn Mill,
- The wetland area and stream corridor in Keenaghan,
- The ridgeline running to the archaeological ringfort,
- The mature tree line of the former Earlsfield Estate House running up to the towns sports grounds. (See Objectives Maps 14A & 14B).
OS2 Preserve a number of significant views by discouraging development above these ridgelines and viewing points. (See Objective Map 14A).
OS3 Encourage developers to retain existing significant hedgerows and tree groups and incorporate these features into their developments where possible.

4.3 Remnants of the Past - Archaeology

Ballymote contains many sites of archaeological interest. Ballymote Castle is located to the west of the town as is the remains of the Franciscan friary and graveyard. Also throughout the immediate plan area many archaeological features are apparent in the form of ringforts, ancient field patterns, souterrains and enclosures. Archaeology is a non-renewable resource and is of great cultural and scientific importance.

The DoEHLG records all known monuments and sites in a statutory inventory known as the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP). The RMP contains all known monuments etc dating from before 1700 and some sites post 1700 AD. A zone of archaeological potential surrounds each monument. Recorded monuments are protected under the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1994. Copies of the RMP for County Sligo are available for inspection at County Council offices and public libraries.

Anyone intending to carry out works, which may interfere with a monument site, is required to give two months notice to the DoEHLG, who will specify what, if any, precautions or actions are required. Potential sites of archaeological interest may include archaeological remains beneath the ground surface. Such remains may only be uncovered during development work and must be investigated and recorded in great detail.

Ballymote Castle is a fine example of a medieval fortification and stronghold. Consolidation and stabilisation works are currently being carried out in order to preserve the castle in-situ. Information posts have been put in place detailing the historic background of this site.

Objectives for Archaeology

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

A1 Support the Office of Public Works in its restoration work of Ballymote Castle. (See Objective Map 14B).
A2 Safeguard the continuing existence of the Franciscan Abbey and ensure the continued maintenance of the adjoining graveyard. (See Objective Map 14B).
A3 Support access to the various sites of archaeological importance within Ballymote, with co-operation of the private landowners.
A4 Integrate, where possible, sites of archaeological interest into the walking trail and proposed open space network of Ballymote.

4.4 Significant Structures - Architectural Heritage

Ballymote has a range of significant architectural styles that deserve recognition for their individual architectural merit. The Record of Protected Structures (RPS) is a mechanism for the statutory protection of architectural heritage. Under the Planning and Development Act, 2000, each planning authority is required to compile and maintain a RPS for its functional area. The RPS contained within the Sligo County Development Plan, 2005 - 2011 includes the following structures within Ballymote.

Emlaghfad Parish Church, Lord Edward Street, is a free standing, gothic revival limestone church, c.1800. The Emlaghfad Church of Ireland is a fine early 19th Century building strategically located in the heart of Ballymote with its own grounds. In addition to its architectural detailing it is also recognised that the church has significant historical importance.
L. Hayden’s pub and town house, Lord Edward Street, Ballymote, 1830 – 1870. This attractive premises situated in the heart of Ballymote derives much of its charm through the early shopfront to the bar. The shopfront retains much of its original features including its carved timber corbels and its double flat panelled timber door. Other features of note include the decorative frieze over the first floor windows and the natural slate roof.
Ballymote Courthouse / Library and attached west wing, 1820 – 1860. This building commands a prominent position in this very intact town and also retains its exterior features. Serving the community as both a library and a courthouse, this complex adds to the character of Ballymote.
Ballymote Railway Station, 1860 – 1862. This railway station is in very good condition externally and is a better example of a typical nineteenth century railway station, with fine detailing and many original features still remaining. The station is set in a low-lying site at the very historic southern end of Ballymote located between the Castle, Roman Catholic Church and graveyard.
Earlsfield House (Sisters of Mercy Convent), 1750 – 1760. Earlsfield House is a very attractive Georgian House, now used as a convent. The building is of architectural significance due to its pleasing design and retention of many features, including its limestone doorcase and timber sash windows. It is also of historic significance due to its association with the Gore Booth family.
Former Corn Mill, Keenaghan, Ballymote, 1780 – 1860. Industrial Heritage forms a significant part of architectural heritage with its retention considered essential in order to preserve our link with the past. This former corn mill complex is worth preserving for its social and historical importance.
Church of the Blessed Virgin and Her Immaculate Conception, Stoneparks, Ballymote, 1857 – 1861. This church is one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival style church architecture in the west of Ireland due to its elaborate detailing, quality materials and superb state of preservation, along with the important social role it plays in the town.

Objectives for Architectural Heritage

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

AH1 Encourage the public and especially developers to appreciate the built heritage of Ballymote taking into consideration the potential impacts that their actions may have on the distinct character of the Ballymote area.

4.5 Designing Ballymote

Ballymote town possesses a number of urban design features from which its distinct local character and appeal is formed. The majority of the town’s growth, up until recent times, occurred as road frontage development. However, this is changing as new housing developments are developed on lands to the rear. Although this can be viewed as a positive contribution to the vision of Ballymote, it is important to note that this is occurring through isolated, individual development schemes. The design or structure of the town needs to be looked at more holistically by identifying future street layouts for the sequential development of the backlands, linking developments thereby reducing restrictive circulation patterns and connecting areas of open space. Also, the lack of urban design needs to be addressed in certain areas of the town. (See Map 8A: Natural & Built Heritage Features and Map 8B: Urban Fabric, Design and Townscape).

Enclosure

The axis of Teeling Street, Lord Edward Street and O’Connell Street gives the centre of the town a strong sense of enclosure created by the buildings and walls, which form the street boundary. Any infill development along these streets should reinforce the existing building line portraying a strong streetscape.

Boundary Treatment

Appropriate boundary treatments within towns such as Ballymote can be very important to the overall image of the town. Front boundaries provide an important interface between the private and public domain. A development can look discordant with varying boundary types, different materials, styles, colours, and decorative features being used.

Building Height

The height of infill developments should generally follow the adjoining building heights reflecting subtle variations in height where they exist. However, focal sites and individually assessed sites within the town core i.e. the mixed infill development zone may be able to take higher building elevations (i.e. an additional storey).

Urban Edge

To ensure a strong image for the town it is important that the edge of the town is sufficiently defined. In ensuring orderly development of the town, it is important to be able to distinguish where the rural environment stops and the town begins. An emphasis should be placed on building within the development boundary rather than in a haphazard manner along the approach roads, which would only aid in weakening the overall structure of the town.

Building Condition

The majority of the buildings throughout Ballymote are of good condition. This includes most of the buildings in the commercial / retail core. However, it should be acknowledged that a notable amount of these retail buildings were vacant at the time of survey (July 2004), especially along O’Connell Street. The continued upkeep of existing buildings will be encouraged and the restoration and refurbishment of vacant buildings especially those within the town core should be facilitated as much as possible. (See Map 9: Building Condition).

Dereliction

Dereliction within Ballymote is mainly evident to the rear of properties including rear sheds and storage areas. This is especially apparent to the rear of Teeling Street and to the rear of O’Connell Street. A new, coherent street frontage at both these areas could be developed keeping in mind strong building lines and achieving a good mix of development. The re-development of the derelict cinema complex along Teeling Street would lend itself to greatly enhancing the image of the area.

Design Features

There are some noteworthy design features within Ballymote including a number of traditional shopfronts, which provide the town with a distinctive vernacular finish. Also neo-traditional lamp standards have been fitted along Lord Edward Street and Emmet Street, this treatment should be continued to encompass O’Connell Street and Teeling Street. Lord Edward Street is free from over head wiring, which gives the street an uncluttered appearance unlike Teeling Street or Abbey Terrace.

Street Furniture is provided within the town centre in terms of benches, planter boxes, litterbins, signage and bus stops. These should be provided in a coherent manner ensuring pedestrian movement is not impeded.

Landmark buildings within Ballymote include:

Ballymote Castle,
Roman Catholic Church,
Church of Ireland.

Character Areas

Ballymote brings together a number of distinctive townscape elements. These are best described as ‘character areas’. These can be described as follows:

Established Town Centre Core
This is the commercial and business heart of the town, including convenience and comparison stores. Like most Irish towns, residential buildings are dispersed throughout between this commercial sector. However, a tight urban form has been created giving a strong sense of continuity and enclosure to the streetscape.
Market Area
The Cattle Mart has been established in Ballymote since 1959 and between the actual mart structure and surrounding land the complex takes up quite a sizeable portion of terrain to the east of the town. It is the only trading mart left in Sligo, holding once a week sales and therefore is of economic and cultural importance to the area. The area is characterised by the two-storey warehouse unit and large expanse of surrounding land. This character area could be bounded in a more sympathetic way with its surrounding town environment.
Educational Focus
The third character area is in the vicinity of the schools. Three schools are concentrated in this one area – one primary school, the Vocational school and the Convent school. A creche has also recently been opened beside the primary school. This educational cluster provides Ballymote with a strong educational focus. This cluster allows for sharing of recreational facilities between schools also parents of children attending both primary and secondary schools only have one drop-off-point to go to.
Existing Amenity Trail
The fourth character area stretches from the northwestern side of the town to the south. This area encompasses a parkland setting and includes such historic structures as the Roman Catholic Church, the Franciscan Abbey and adjoining graveyard, Ballymote Castle and the former Corn Mill. The area is also characterised by significant tree groups, stream courses and in some parts vernacular stonewalls. (See Map 10: Character Areas)

Scope for Improvement

There are a number of areas within Ballymote, which could be improved in terms of urban design quality. The junction to the west of Teeling Street, the brownfield site at the western corner of Teeling Street, the junction to the east of Teeling Street, the former cinema and associated vacant lands and the Cattle Mart area.

Junction to the west of Teeling Street in front of the Loftus Hall incorporating the adjacent Brownfield site

The junction at this location is very wide and provides the area with no sense of enclosure or framing. This is not helped by the faint outline of the road markings. A planted island at this junction providing Abbey Terrace with a slip road onto the L-6032 (toTemplehouse) would aid in counteracting the bare appearance of the area and aid in pedestrian crossings. (See diagram 1).

At present there is no defined property boundary or footpath around the cottage to the east of this site creating a poor visual image and dangerous junction treatment. The provision of a footpath in this area is needed not only for aesthetics but also for safety reasons. (See diagram 1)

A brownfield site is located adjoining this junction, which is presently bounded by a concrete stonewall and sheet metal gate. This site, due to its strategic position within the town, would lend itself greatly to the development of a landmark, focal building.

Junction to the east of Teeling Street incorporating the former cinema and Cattle Mart area

The junction at this location also takes up a wide expanse of land, the scale of which is inconsistent with the tightly knit surrounding environment. The development of a planted island is also proposed for this area in order to reduce its stark image. Another option may be to extend the footpath area allowing for tree planting along its edge. (See diagram 2).

The site of the former cinema opposite this junction provides the town with an opportunity to create an innovative development, creating active frontage and allowing access and therefore further development opportunities to the adjoining brownfield site to the west. The development of this brownfield site in conjunction with the cinema site would provide the town with a great opportunity in terms of urban design features. The County Council own the former cinema site and will strive in being proactive by way of demonstrating good practice with the redevelopment of this area. A new build structure integrating a landscaped courtyard setting would greatly enhance this area of Ballymote. Ground floor units incorporating community, retail and business development with the upper floors possibly reserved for residential build. The courtyard setting, if properly landscaped to include sitting areas etc, could provide a pleasant amenity square.

It is proposed to create pedestrian access between Teeling Street and the neighbouring school. Development of the former cinema site should incorporate direct access onto the proposed pedestrian link facilitating the possibility of erecting overhead awnings providing cover for possible outdoor seating. (See diagram 3).

The large expanse of land surrounding the Cattle Mart area coupled with the expansive junction gives this area a weak visual image. To strengthen this image the boundary of the Cattle Mart area needs to be addressed. It is proposed to encourage the development of a ‘permeable building’. This would enforce a sense of spatial containment. The building would need to be a two-storey structure in keeping with the adjoining residential buildings. However, an archway could be constructed thereby allowing and maintaining vehicular access to the Cattle Mart and providing public car parking to the rear. The use of such a building could possible suit a commercial, office or public use such as a fitness/health centre.

Objectives for Urban Design

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

UD1 Encourage the sensitive restoration of derelict buildings that contribute to the built heritage and townscape quality of Ballymote.
UD2 Improve the physical appearance of the junction in front of Loftus Hall and the junction to the east of Teeling Street by either constructing landscaped islands or extending the existing footpaths thereby creating a form of enclosure.
UD3 Encourage the development of a focal building on brownfield land adjacent to the Loftus Hall.
UD4 Explore the possibility of developing the former cinema site along Teeling Street using best practice principles.
UD5 Encourage the development of a new-build structure with a landscaped courtyard setting on the available infill land adjoining the former cinema.
UD6 Allow for pedestrian linkage at the following locations:
- between Teeling Street and Corran College,
- from O’Connell Street through to the proposed new street frontage to the rear of this area.
UD7 Facilitate the development of a ‘permeable building’ to create a stronger building line and image for the Cattle Mart area while still allowing vehicular access to the rear.
UD8 Encourage the establishment of a new, coherent street frontage at the following locations:
- to the rear of Teeling Street,
- to the rear of O’Connell Street.
UD9 Preserve the vernacular stonewalling.
UD10 Retain distinctive hard landscape features such as fire hydrants and former British post box.
UD11 Ensure signposts are clearly visible and legible.

(See Map 8A: Natural & Built Heritage Features, Map 8B: Urban Fabric, Design & Townscape and Objectives Maps 14A & 14B for all the above).

Map 8A Natural and Built Heritage Features

Map 8B Urban Fabric - Design and Townscape
Map 8B Urban Fabric - Design and Townscape

Map 9 Building Condition

Map 10 Character Areas

4.6 Where to Buy What – Retailing in Ballymote

Ballymote town provides the third largest retailing sector in the County of Sligo and is very important in terms of providing services and commercial facilities, to the surrounding rural hinterland and local communities, reducing the need to travel to larger urban centres. Within the Plan period the population of Ballymote town is set to increase thereby providing the retailing sector with a strong customer base.

Ballymote’s retail zone is mainly based within the town core along Teeling Street, Lord Edward Street, O’Connell Street and recently expanding to include Emmet Street and Cattle Mart Street. To aid consolidation and strengthen the existing retailing base, any further retail development should be directed into these areas thereby facilitating multi-purpose trips and reducing the number of car movements.

At present the retailing base in Ballymote covers a number of convenience and comparison stores such as supermarkets, butchers, newsagents, draperies, pharmacies etc. (Appendix C contains a comprehensive table of all the retailing outlets within Ballymote and their corresponding approximate retail floorspace). Weekly markets are held every Thursday in Ballymote consisting of six stalls, which locate outside the Emlaghfad Church of Ireland on Lord Edward Street. The location of this casual trading area can cause congestion within the town. The public car park in front of the Library/Courthouse could present the town with an ideal location from which to host this weekly event accommodating the need for passing trade. Regular public car parking could be restricted in this area during the hours that the casual trading is taking place. Any displaced parking could be accommodated in the proposed off-street car parking area to the rear of Lord Edward Street (see section 4.10 – Getting Around).

A concern within Ballymote, in terms of the commercial market, is the number of vacant commercial properties. At present there are eleven vacant properties, which are principally contained within O’Connell Street and Grattan Street. This portrays an unhealthy image for the town in terms of economic vitality and prosperity. The commercial development market within the town at present is slow. Properties that have gone on the market can experience long delays in the sale. This can result in ‘dead frontage’. Therefore to foster a sustainable town and community base the re-use of existing commercial premises will need to be encouraged and new retailing outlets promoted within infill development opportunities in the town core. It is hoped that an expanding residential base will be able to support a more vital retail and commercial element to these streets and that other supporting uses, such as creches, childcare facilities and other community services may establish in vacant properties.

Objectives for Retailing

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

R1 Encourage within specific sites the development of niche commercial ventures such as arts and crafts, entertainment units and leisure facilities to provide for the towns expanding population and surrounding rural hinterland. (See Objectives Map 14B and section 4.4 Designing Ballymote)
R2 Explore the possible re-location and expansion of the casual trading area to the public car park in front of Ballymote Library/Courthouse. (See Objectives Map 14B).
R3 Promote the re-use of existing vacant retail premises within Ballymote.
R4 Encourage the retention of traditional shopfronts that enhance the local character of the town’s streetscape and provide the town with an attractive appearance to entice investment.
R5 Encourage, where appropriate, the infilling of brownfield sites within the town core with a diverse range of commercial and retail uses.

4.7 Working in Ballymote - Industry and Office Development

The office base within Ballymote is mainly contained within the mixed-use sector of the town core and provides various financial, legal, and property services to the local community. Conference facilities are available in the hotel along Emmet Street. A community enterprise centre was officially opened within the town in 1993. This centre along Grattan Street provides reasonably priced business space for local enterprises. It is proposed to encourage the majority of future office development to be based within the existing town core area, thereby strengthening the town and facilitating multi-purpose trip generation.

To the west of the town on the R296 (to Tobercurry) a business park was established in 2000, providing the town with four workshop units. This was facilitated through Ballymote Community Enterprise, the International Fund for Ireland (IFI)3 and Sligo Leader Partnership. At present two of the units are occupied by Ballymote Community Enterprise Centre, which is backed by FAS and runs under the name of Ballymote Carriages, training students for building construction pre-apprenticeship. The business centre was initially built with the intention to provide for private-rental businesses however this has not occurred as yet.

Manufacturing industries have been based in Ballymote since the late seventies, two in total. Between them these industries employ approximately 160 people from the surrounding area. One of the industries has recently expanded their office area.

Other areas within Ballymote where industrial activities are carried out include a construction depot, a couple of industrial units to the north of the town and the Connaught Co-op Creamery to the southwest.

The Sligo County Enterprise Board, Enterprise Ireland and the IDA assist a number of businesses and entrepreneurial developments within Ballymote through grants, advice, training and information.

A high percentage of local residents of Ballymote have to commute to Sligo for employment. It is therefore important for the growth of the town that adequate lands are made available for industrial and business enterprise. Approximately 14 additional acres of land have been zoned for industrial and light industrial / enterprise use.

Objectives for Employment

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

E1 Ensure through proactive initiatives that Ballymote is attractive for inward investment, encouraging further enterprise, industrial and light industrial development.
E2 Appropriately landscape all industrial developments so that they integrate sensitively within the natural environment of Ballymote, especially along the western and northern approach routes.

4.8 The Needs of the Community

Community facilities cover numerous amenities and services that are provided for public use including education, childcare, healthcare, burial and various recreational outlets. If Ballymote is to grow as a Key Support Town the range and quality of social facilities should be strengthened, providing for social inclusion and an enhanced quality of life.

Abbey Pastoral Centre

Garda Siochana

A Garda barracks is located along Lord Edward Street. The barracks covers Ballymote and surrounding environs including Riverstown, Aclare, Tobercurry and Gorteen and employs twenty permanent staff.

Educational Profile

A number of educational facilities are available within the town of Ballymote. Ballymote National School comprising of 206 pupils, Colaiste Mhuire secondary school currently provides educational facilities for 365 pupils and Corran College has approximately 100 students.

There is adequate space within the existing schools for expansion if the need arose.

The former Corran College building is adjacent to the new-build Corran College. Two classrooms in the old school are still utilised. The old school building is still structurally sound and it is felt that the existing space in this building could be beneficially used by the town for day and evening classes/groups such as mother and toddler groups, teaching English to foreign nationals, community discussion groups and computer based training including e-inclusion initiatives. A certain amount of funding from the Department of Education would be needed to facilitate this. The use of this space could be of great benefit to the community in Ballymote.

Former Corran College

A Teagasc training facility is located to the west of the town, which runs day and night courses and provides training in Agricultural courses such as farming practices, discussion group meetings, seminars, vocational farming, food courses, REPS courses and also computer training for farmers.

Health Care Facilities

The Sisters of St. John of God founded Ballymote’s original Health unit in 1953 providing pastoral support to the community. The nursing unit is now run as an independent company in conjunction with the Health Service Executive.

New-Build Corran College

The nursing unit provides a number of facilities and services including Outreach programmes, physiotherapy, wound care clinics and chiropody.

St. Vincent de Paul provides elderly accommodation adjacent to the nursing unit. There are 28 units in total and home-help is provided to the inhabitants of these units from the Health Service Executive.

The nursing unit has plans to include a Primary Care Centre incorporating General Practitioner (GP) services, Public Health Nurse, Psychiatric unit etc. Ancillary to these services the unit would also like to provide residents, staff and patients with an on-site recreational room, recreational gardens and a tuc-shop come coffee shop providing Ballymote and surrounding areas with a fully integrated health service.

Expanding services into the adjoining St. John of Gods Convent may be an option as there is the possibility that the existing nuns from here may relocate.

Within Ballymote at present there are four practicing GPs and two public health nurses. Dental clinics are available twice a week and out patient psychiatric unit, behavioural therapy and alcohol counselling services are available.

Childcare Facilities

A new pre-school child minding facility has recently been opened up beside the existing primary school in the town. Also an after school homework service is provided in the south of the town.

Burial Grounds

Ballymote’s graveyard is located to the west of the town at Carrownanty. It is important to recognise the long-term implications of an increased population base on the town’s cemetery. Therefore lands have been identified for possible future expansion.

Recreational Facilities

GAA football is played in Corran Park, while soccer is played in Brother Walfrid Kerins Park to the north of Ballymote. Due to the possible expansion in population further lands have been identified to facilitate sports and leisure activities. The lands identified are adjoining the existing sports pitches as this location will consolidate these activities and allow for possible sharing of facilities.

Ballymote also has one of the best provincial indoor handball alleys in Ireland. The club offers coaching facilities and arranges matches nationwide. The area surrounding Ballymote provides high quality angling at Lough Ardera, Templehouse Lake, Lough Gill and the River Owenmore. Ballymote’s 18-hole Golf Course lays approximately 1km to the southeast, providing the area with a challenging course.

One recreational outlet, which is very specialised to Ballymote, is the Irish Raptor, Eagle Flying Centre. This is located on the western side of Ballymote on the road towards Templehouse.

Loftus Hall at the corner of Abbey Terrace dates from circa 1864 and has had many uses as that of the parish church, parish hall and boys school. All the uses have been community based. Since this time the building has been extended and new additions have been added on. It is now used as a community centre after being refurbished by FAS in 1993-94 where local meetings, discussion groups and evening activities take place. This hall forms an integral part of the cultural history of Ballymote and should be retained for community-based activities.

Loftus Hall

Objectives for Community Facilities

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

CF1 Encourage the use of the former Corran College for various community day and evening classes and groups.
CF2 Support the development of a fully integrated health service unit within Ballymote. (Refer to Health Care Facilities).
CF3 Retain Loftus Hall for community based events and activities. (See Objectives Map 14B for all above).

4.9 Tourism

Ballymote is a multi-faceted town from which a strong tourism base could be developed by utilising the assets of the area.

Assets of Ballymote in terms of tourism potential

Ballymote railway line and station stop.
Ballymote Castle.
Ballymote Abbey and adjoining historical graveyard.
The numerous archaeological sites dotted throughout Ballymote.
The surrounding undulating landscape.
The Caves of Kesh.
Ballymote Golf Course.
Ballymote Park.
Ballymote Hotel and Conference facilities.
The character and charm of the Ballymote people and town itself.
Traditional Irish Music.
Ballymote as the centre for coarse angling fishing in County Sligo.
The Irish Raptor Centre.

Objectives for Tourism

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

TO1 Support the promotion of Ballymote as a good accommodation base on which to develop the town’s tourism potential.
TO2 Encourage the development of a niche tourism activity for Ballymote, such as back-to-nature holidays, health farms.

Map 11 Strategic Transportation Network

Map 12 Ballymote's Transportation Network

4.10 Getting Around – Transport

Traffic Circulation

Good connectivity provides a town with an efficient and effective road system. A town the size of Ballymote needs good links to surrounding areas in order to attract future population and business.

Ballymote is approximately 24km (15 miles) commuting distance from Sligo City and 40km (25 miles, approx. 40 minutes) from Knock International Airport. There is no direct access via national routes to Ballymote. Linkages to these roads are confined to regional and local roads, some of which are sub-standard and in need of improvement. Upgrades are currently being carried out along certain sections of the national primary routes N4 and N17 which are the principal national routes serving the Ballymote catchment area. These upgrades are at different stages of planning and development by the Council’s road design department and have been funded through the National Roads Authority (NRA). (See Map 11: Strategic Transportation Network, on previous page).

Also the surfaces of a number of non-national routes are being upgraded under the multi-annual Road Restoration Grant Scheme. These Regional routes R293, R294, R295, and R296 provide an important feeder network connecting the National Primary Routes and the towns and villages of Ballymote, Boyle, Gorteen, Bunnanaddan and Tobercurry.

There are numerous approach roads into Ballymote, eight in total, including the R293 (to Gorteen), R295 (to Boyle), R296 (to Tobercurry), L-5604 (to Boyle/Gorteen), L-1502 (to Drumfin), L-1604 (to Castlebaldwin), L-6032 (to Templehouse) and the R293 (towards Sligo).

It is important for Ballymote not to develop in isolation and to develop good external connections with the rest of the County and country. Road improvements and upgrades need to be carried out along the approach roads to Ballymote, especially the R293 at Clarke’s Bridge and the L-1502 at Drumfin. At present these roads are unsuitable for coaches and trucks thereby limiting economic activity from tourism and industrial based services.

The approach roads converge onto the town centre by way of three main streets, Teeling Street, Lord Edward Street and O’Connell Street. These three streets form the central spine of the town. O’Connell Street rises up towards Lord Edward Street, which is bounded by Teeling Street to the north. This existing form creates many opportunities for backland consolidation and development. (See Map 12: Ballymote’s Transportation Network).

All roads within Ballymote work on a two-way system and to date there are few reports of significant congestion levels arising within the town centre. However, with the predicted increase in population levels this status quo may not last therefore a strategy needs to be identified at this stage so that good traffic flow and circulation movements can be maintained. Ballymote possesses sufficient land to accommodate the necessary expansion of the town. In order for this to be achieved successfully and sustainably there is a need for future auxiliary roads and access points to be identified ensuring accessibility and permeability. Therefore a number of access points and indicative street layouts have been identified on backland areas throughout the town. (See objectives Map 14)

There are public and private car-parking areas within Ballymote. The train station provides parking for up to 40 vehicles and the Roman Catholic Church also provides car-parking facilities for its patrons. Commercial businesses such as the hotel and supermarkets provide car-parking facilities to the rear of their premises. However, the majority of public car parking within Ballymote takes the form of on-street parallel parking. Parking along Lord Edward Street takes place in a haphazard manner with cars parking vertically to the kerb. Cars usually need to reverse out of these parking spaces using both sides of the road while doing so, creating obstructions to on-coming traffic, which in turn causes delays in traffic flows.

The delineation of car-parking bays parallel to the kerb along this main street would have a positive effect on the public realm by reducing the ‘car clutter’ from the street and re-organising it into a more orderly and manageable form. This would add to the overall improvement of the streetscape.

At the junction of Lord Edward Street and Teeling Street parking restrictions need to be put in place by way of double yellow lines as parking in this area hampers driver’s sight-lines.

The implementation of the above measures would reduce the amount of car parking available within Ballymote therefore additional car parking will need to be accommodated elsewhere in the town centre. Also additional car parking spaces will be needed to accommodate the possible population growth of the town. Therefore suitable lands have been identified within the town for future car parking including, to the rear of the Cattle Mart (on days when the mart is not in operation) and to the rear of premises fronting onto Lord Edward Street. (See Objectives Map 14).

Pedestrian / Cyclist Facilities

In general footpath surfaces within Ballymote are of good quality. At the time of survey new footpath surfaces were being put in along Teeling Street. However, in a few areas surfaces tend to be uneven and difficult to negotiate particularly for the elderly, wheelchair users and those using prams such as along the south-western section of Teeling Street and along Grattan Street.

In certain areas, where there is a demonstrable need for them, footpaths are completely lacking such as in the Keenaghan area and along the R296 (to Tobercurry) towards the industrial units at the western edge of the town. These industrial units employ a number of people who need to be catered for in terms of pedestrian access to Ballymote town centre. Therefore the footpath along this western approach road should be continued as far as these centres of employment. (See Urban Fabric, Design & Townscape Map 8B)

Facilities for cyclists are completely lacking within Ballymote and this situation needs to be addressed. There are no cycling facilities, such as bicycle parking stands/shelters or cycleways available throughout the town or/and at any of the three schools within the locality. Cycling within the area should be facilitated and students, especially those living within the town boundary, should be encouraged to either walk or cycle to school.

It is interesting to note from the 2002 Census of Population that by far the preferred form of transport for travelling to work, school or college is the motorcar, with the bicycle and train almost negligible. Pedestrian travel within Ballymote is good; however there is room for improvement and only a small percentage of inhabitants use public bus.

Figure 5: Mode of Transport to Work, School or College for persons aged 5+
Foot	Bicycle	Bus	Train	Motorbike	Motorcar	Other	Not Stated	Total
197	8	41	2	2	436	102	20	808
24%	%	15%	0.2%	0.2%	54%	13%	2.5%	100

Source: Small Area Population Statistics, Census of Population, 2002, these figures cover the entire Ballymote ED rural and urban district. However, they do incorporate the town itself and are therefore representative of the plan area.

Public Transport

Both bus and rail infrastructure serve Ballymote town. There are five daily passenger rail services operating between Dublin and Sligo, stopping at Ballymote, with extra services being provided on Monday mornings and Friday evenings. However the trains do not operate at times to facilitate commuter transport from Ballymote to Sligo and the fares are prohibitive. The lack of a commuter service hampers the provision of an efficient, accessible and sustainable transport system for the County. A locally based action group, South Sligo Rapid Transit Group, commissioned a feasibility study in 2001. The report is an economic, financial and environmental evaluation of proposals to introduce a rail service for commuters living in the Ballymote-Collooney-Ballisodare Corridor, on the existing rail line from Ballymote to Sligo. Not only would a commuting service be of beneficial value to Ballymote town, the adjoining car park would also allow for a park and ride system to operate, thereby serving the wider environs of the southeast of the County.

Bus Eireann provides Ballymote with a bus service along the Sligo-Roscommon-Athlone line. There is a daily return service four days a week however, no commuting service is provided.

Under the Department of Education School Transfer Scheme, Bus Eireann provides the schools within Ballymote with a school bus service. To avail of this provision secondary school students need to be living 3 miles from the school while primary school students need to be living 2 miles from their school. The service includes both morning and evening school drops and buses arriving at the schools are staggered in order to avoid congestion.

Private bus transport, taxi and hackney services are also available within Ballymote and provide services to the schools, the Health Service Executive and individual inhabitants of Ballymote.

Objectives for Transport

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

T1 Facilitate a number of road improvements and upgrades along the approach roads to Ballymote, especially along the approach road at Clarke’s Bridge and the approach road at Drumfin.
T2 Support the provision of a commuter rail service between Sligo and Ballymote.
T3 Reserve access points throughout Ballymote to allow development of vehicular routes in facilitating the sustainable development of backland areas and thereby allowing for circulation. Access roads should be overlooked and appropriately landscaped.
T4 Promote the provision of vehicular linkages within the Plan area.
T5 Develop and delineate public car parking spaces:
- To the rear of the Cattle Mart area, on days when the mart is not in operation.
- In a brownfield site to the rear of premises fronting onto Lord Edward Street.
T6 Delineate parallel parking bays along Lord Edward Street.
T7 Delineate car parking spaces adjacent to the primary school and Corran College to accommodate teachers parking and to allow for a ‘dropping off point’ for parents with their children.
T8 Facilitate the provision of parking restrictions at the junction of Lord Edward Street and Teeling Street.
T9 Improve the quality of public footpaths along certain sections:
- Southwestern side of Teeling Street.
- Southern area of Ballymote by Keenaghan.
- Area by Cattle Mart.
- Along Grattan Street.
T10 Facilitate the provision of footpaths in the following areas:
- Along the R296 (to Tobercurry) to the industrial units at the western edge of the town.
- Around the single storey dwelling at the junction of Teeling Street opposite the petrol station.
- At the Keenaghan area to the south of the town.
T11 Promote the inclusion of bicycle stands within Ballymote’s town centre and at the train station.(See Objectives Map 14A and 14B for the above).

4.11 Piping, Plumbing & Cabling – Infrastructural Utilities

Water, Sewerage and Drainage

The water supply system within Ballymote, with the implementation of water conservation programmes, should be adequate to serve the predicted population of the area. (see section 3.1 Capacity for Expansion). However, all areas within the town are gravity fed therefore this may lead to problems with water pressure, especially within developments on a steep gradient, such as to the northeast. Therefore the installation of additional pumping stations may be required in order to obtain efficiency of service. To facilitate the development of new residential and industrial areas, connections to the existing water supply network will need to be expanded upon. (See Map 13 Water Supply & Drainage Network).

Ballymote is currently served through a combined drainage system. The current drainage system is nearly at capacity. Therefore in order to facilitate the growth of Ballymote there will be a need to overhaul the existing system allowing for the expansion of facilities. The provision of separate foul and surface water drainage systems would put less pressure on existing sewage treatment facilities. (See Map 13 Water Supply & Drainage Network).

The area to the south of the town by the sludge treatment works can be prone to flooding therefore this area should be kept free from development.

Waste Management Services

The Council provides Ballymote with a regular kerbside service. Recycling facilities are also available and a bottle bank ‘bring centre’ is located adjacent to the fire station, which provides glass bottle and aluminium can recycle services.

The Connaught Waste Management Plan, 2001, strives to achieve the following target:

48% of waste being recycled,
33% recovered, and
19% going to landfill.

Litter within Ballymote has a detrimental effect on attracting business, tourism, and investment into the town. Therefore it is important that correct litter disposal is encouraged and managed appropriately and that litterbins are appropriately placed throughout the town.

Energy and Telecommunications

A 38kv voltage station currently serves Ballymote, which provides adequate power to support residential, industrial and commercial uses within the Ballymote area. High voltage electricity infrastructure is planned for County Sligo by the provision of a new 220kV line and associated substation works. Therefore in the future it may be possible for Ballymote to connect to this increased supply. This would improve the quality of supply and provide the capacity to service future industrial, commercial and residential developments within Ballymote.

Ballymote is served by higher capacity fixed wireless and DSL (digital subscriber line) telecommunications infrastructure.4 The provision of this communication infrastructure is very important to the further growth of Ballymote and its inclusion as a Key Support Town within the County. A number of companies supply Ballymote with wireless, high speed internet connections, satellite broadband and DSL technology that allows higher capacity communications including internet access over conventional telephone lines. The contribution of this infrastructure makes Ballymote attractive for investment and allows the inhabitants of the local community the freedom to set up commercially viable businesses, as their customers do not have to be limited to Ballymote’s catchment area.

The Government have prepared a National Broadband Strategy and Plan, in which a key initiative involves the construction of high speed fibre-optic rings resulting in Metropolitan Networks providing high speed broadband infrastructure to businesses, schools, hospitals and private consumers. Also an objective of the Broadband Action Plan is to facilitate smaller communities under a Group Broadband Scheme into pooling their broadband demands and secure high-speed connectivity from a range of providers with grant support from the Government.

Coverage for mobile phone operations is good within the Ballymote area as the town is served by a number of mobile providers. Any further applications for the erection of telecommunication infrastructure will need to be individually assessed in accordance with the DoEHLGs Telecommunications Antennae and Support Structures Guidelines 1996 and any subsequent revisions.

Objectives for Infrastructural Utilities

It is the objective of Sligo County Council to:

WS1 Reserve sufficient land for a sludge treatment station in Ballymote. (See Objectives Map 11A).
WS2 Provide Ballymote with an adequate and reliable water supply system from which to accommodate an increase in domestic, commercial and industrial growth.
WS3 Promote the provision and use of separate foul and surface water drainage systems.
WS4 Phase developments until a sewage expansion scheme for Ballymote can be realised.
WS5 Encourage the inclusion of Ballymote in the next round of the Serviced Land Initiative programme.5
WS6 Facilitate the provision of electricity utilities to serve the projected population growth and consumer demand within the Ballymote area.
WS7 Support the inclusion of Ballymote in the Government’s National Broadband Strategy and Plan, as a town to be incorporated with the metropolitan broadband network.

Map 13 Water Supply and Drainage Network

4.12 Getting things done - Implementation

The success of this Plan rests with the degree of implementation that is achieved over the next six years. It is important for a plan to strive towards a higher standard in terms of economic gain, commercial success, environmental awareness and residential living. However the objectives in relation to these topics need to be realistic in terms of funding capabilities and implementation structures. The funding of the Plan falls within the scope of three sectors: the national government, the County Council and the private sector. Where appropriate, the County Council will seek financing from specified sources, both public and private sector, as well as from EU programmes and grants. Existing objectives may also be implemented by means of conditions on developers and their associated development proposals.

Development Contribution Scheme

According to the Development Contribution Scheme, a planning authority may, when granting permissions, include conditions for requiring the payment of a contribution in respect of public infrastructure and facilities benefiting development in the area of the planning authority. (Part 3, Section 48 of the Planning and Development Act 2000). Levies for Public Infrastructure and Facilities can relate to:

The acquisition of land.
The provision of open spaces, recreational and community facilities and amenities and landscaping works.
The provision of roads, car parks, car parking places, sewers, waste water and water treatment facilities, drains and watermains.
The provision of bus corridors and lanes, bus interchange facilities (including car parks for those facilities), infrastructure to facilitate public transport, cycle, and pedestrian facilities, and traffic calming measures.
The refurbishment, upgrading, enlargement or replacement of roads, car parks, car parking places, sewers, waste water and water treatment facilities, drains or watermains.
Any matters ancillary to the above.

The Council has two Development Contribution Schemes in place. Ballymote is covered by Scheme A, which is reviewed on an annual basis.

Additional National and EU level programmes include, the CLAR programme, the programme for Peace and Reconciliation, National Lottery Facility Funding, Community Support Framework, as well as other funding mechanisms available from the various government departments. Such bodies have varying criteria regarding the type of developments they fund and may be useful to consider in the achievement of development objectives.

Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (PEACE 11)

This programme was established to facilitate reconciliation between communities in the border counties by supporting ideas, activities and projects put forward by local communities through community-led and community-based actions. There are different strands to this programme, one of which relates to Urban and Rural Community Led Development and also relating to Social Inclusion (through preventing exclusion, promoting the inclusion of children and young people, support through accompanying infrastructure and equipment support). As Sligo is a border County, development in the area of peace and reconciliation is seen as an important step toward inclusion, with a community-orientated focus to development. The County Council led Task Force was established under this programme and is responsible for (Measure 3.3) building better communities and (Measure 3.4) improving our rural communities.

Urban and Village Renewal Measure 2001 – 2006

The Urban and Village Renewal programme 2001 - 2006 is being implemented at local level through the support of the County Council. The aim of this measure is to provide financial support for a range of interventions to upgrade towns and villages to make them more attractive places in which to live and work, encourage social and economic development and facilitate and support the development of tourism and tourism-related activity. Ballymote was included in this programme in 2001.

The Community and Voluntary Grant Scheme

This grant scheme is intended to assist community-based projects under the following categories:

General public interest
Events
Activities
Cultural and heritage development projects
Tidy Towns/Villages enhancement projects
Maintenance of burial grounds

The Ballymote Boxing Club and Ballymote Youth Steering Group have received funding for their activities in 2005 and the Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd have received funding for the Tidy Town initiative.

Various Governmental Departments

Funding is available through various governmental departments such as:

The Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism offer grants and funding through varying programs such as the Sports Capital Programme, which is a National Lottery Funded programme advertised on an annual basis and allocates funding to projects that are directly related to the provision of sport and recreational sport facilities.
The Department of Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs offers two schemes. One of which is a Equipment and Refurbishment Grant providing essential physical supports for the local community and voluntary sector and the second scheme is an Education, Training and Research Grant aimed at enhancing the capacity of local communities.
The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform operates the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006, which is in part funded by the European Union Structural Funds (ERDF and ESF). Grant schemes operated under this programme include:
- Capital grants to community groups and organisations which operate on a “not for profit’ basis for the establishment, upgrading and enhancement of childcare facilities;
- Staffing grants to community groups and organisations which operate on a “not for profit” basis for childcare personnel in childcare services;
- Capital grants for self-employed/private childcare service providers of up to €50,790 subject to a maximum of 65% of the total capital cost of the childcare project.

The Combat Poverty Agency

This Agency, which comes under the aegis of the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs, provides funding for voluntary and community groups engaged in anti-poverty work.

EU Structural Funds

This programme identifies a number of areas for funding, two of which are the European Regional Development Fund and the European Social Fund. There also exists a separate programme, which is co-financed by the structural funds called Community Initiatives. Such EU programmes can be a valuable source of investment, through which specific policies and objectives, as identified in this plan, can be implemented.

Interreg III

The EU provides a range of programmes to facilitate improvements in the balance of social and economic developments. Interreg (which is funded under Community Initiatives) promotes cross-border, transnational and inter-regional co-operation within the EU, aiming to promote the creation and development of networks of cross border co-operation and where relevant in the linking of these networks to wider community networks.

The International Fund for Ireland

Various funding for business, enterprise and training is available through a number of bodies such as Enterprise Ireland, IDA, FAS and County Enterprise Boards. Also the International Fund for Ireland promotes social and economic advance between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. This fund operates a range of programmes and the bulk of its resources are directed towards projects in disadvantaged areas.

Conclusion

Above outlines just some of the programmes available to aid the implementation of the objectives of the Ballymote LAP. Various agencies, including voluntary groups, professional institutions, public and private bodies, and other organisations should be encouraged to participate whenever possible.

Section 5: Good for the Future - Environmental Support

The Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive (2001/42/EC) applies to plans and programmes for which formal preparatory action started on or after the 21st July 2004. Therefore the SEA process is a relatively new practice. Guidelines have been established to aid in the implementation of this Directive.

The objective of which is to

“provide for a high level of protection of the environment and to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans and programmes with a view to promoting sustainable development, by ensuring that, in accordance with this Directive, an environmental assessment is carried out of certain plans and programmes which are likely to have significant effects on the environment”.

Ballymote LAP does not fall under the mandatory requirements for the preparation of an SEA. However, the plan had to undergo a screening process to establish the need for SEA. A notice was issued to the prescribed Environmental Authorities giving them an opportunity to comment on whether or not they consider that significant effects on the environment would be likely to arise from the implementation of the Ballymote LAP. A screening notice was issued to:

the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG), and,
the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.

The EPA stated that ‘the proposed LAP would not in the view of the Agency give rise to significant environmental effects in particular with respect to water and air quality’. The EPA did note the need to ensure adequate wastewater treatment capacity to be provided for any future residential development. Also the Agency noted the County Council’s policy to incorporate and retain, where possible, stream corridors in the proposed open space network and the policy ensuring that the quality of the Owenmore river and Ballinascarrow Lake is not compromised by development occurring within Ballymote.

Observations from the DoEHLG were received, which stated that the following factors should be taken into consideration when deciding on whether a SEA was needed for the Ballymote LAP:

The increase of the town’s geographical footprint, which may have consequential impacts on the archaeological heritage of Ballymote and its surrounds.
The capacity of the sewage treatment plant to cope with the likely population increase and the consideration of the location and quality of receiving waters for treated sewage, and,
The impact of future development on the existing stock of buildings. Some of these buildings may be of merit from an architectural heritage perspective and should be taken account of within the plan.

Areas of archaeological heritage (section 4.3) have been identified within the Plan area and it is the policy of the Council to ensure, through the National Monuments Act, the continued protection of archaeological sites, integrating them, where possible into the proposed open space network of Ballymote. In regards to architectural heritage, (section 4.4) statutory protection has been given to structures identified in the Sligo County Development Plan, 2005 –2011 and the public and developers are encouraged to appreciate the built heritage of the town.

Also in relation to the wastewater treatment facility the current drainage system is nearly at capacity (Section 4.11). Consequently the Ballymote LAP sets out policies to ensure that development will only be allowed on a phased basis until a sewage expansion scheme for Ballymote can be realised.

All the above points have been incorporated into the relevant sections throughout the Plan and any negative environmental effects are mitigated against through the use of specific objectives.

The County Council has taken account of the relevant criteria set out in Schedule 2A of the Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 and based on the above considerations, it is the decision of the County Council that a SEA is not required for Ballymote LAP. The primary objective of the Plan is to ensure the proper planning and sustainable development of the area by regulating development through strategic environmental measures, land use zoning and development objectives. As a result, the implementation of the Plan is unlikely to give rise to significant environmental effects.

Map 14A Objectives - Outer
Map 14A Objectives (Outer)

Map 14B Objectives - Inner
Map 14B Objectives (Inner)

Map 15 Zoning
Map 15 Zoning

Appendix A: Demographic Profile and Population Change

Table 1: Age Profile
Age Cohort	Ballymote ED	State
0 – 14 Yrs	21%	21%
15 – 24 Yrs	13%	17%
25 – 44 Yrs	23%	30%
45 – 64 Yrs	25%	21%
65+ Yrs	19%	11%

Source: Central Statistics Office, Census of Population, 2002

Table 2: Persons over 15+ Classified by Socio-Economic Group, 2002
Area	At Work	Unemployed (including 1st time job seeker)	Student	Retired	Other*	Total
Ballymote ED	47%	5%	9%	17%	22%	100%
State	53%	5%	11%	11%	20%	100%

* Other includes those with Home Duties and Other
Source: Central Statistics Office, Census of Population, 2002

Table 3: Occupational Profile
Area	Agri	Manu	Build	Cleric	Admin	Transport	Sales	Prof	Service	Other
Ballymote ED	7%	17%	11%	8%	9%	5%	10%	15%	11%	7%
State	6%	13%	7%	9%	4%	6%	10%	23%	14%	8%

* Includes Own Account Workers, Agricultural Workers and Others
Source: Central Statistics Office, Census of Population, 2002

Although the above figures cover the entire Ballymote ED including urban and rural they do incorporate the town itself and are therefore representative of the plan area.

Appendix B: Zoning Matrix

View the Zoning Matrix for Ballymote

Appendix C: Retailing Floorspace

Retail and Service Provision survey of Ballymote, dated July 2003 and updated July 2004
Ballymote Retail	Usage	Street	Extent of Usage			Total Retail Floorspace (sq. m. excl. storage)
			Basement	Ground Floor	First Floor
Convenience
Cassidy	Grocery	Lord Edward St		x		44
Charles Hogins	Butchers	Lord Edward St		x		19
Cryan’s CheckOut	Convenience Store	Teeling St		x		95
Gilmor’s Shop		Sligo Rd		x		89
Hurley’s	Newsagent	O’Connell St		x		28
Kanes Londis	Supermarket	Lord Edward St		x		480
Perry’s Spar	Supermarket	Teeling St		x		445
Scanlon	Butchers	Lord Edward St		x		26
Comparison
Agricultural Antiques	Antiques	O’Connell St		x		25
Animal Health Centre		Teeling St		x		24
Christeen Lannon	Pharmacy	Lord Edward St		x		24
Droughton & Co.	Jewelers	Teeling St		x		10
Holistic Centre	Holistic Centre	Teeling St		x		11
Johnstons	Furniture	Lord Edward St		x		599
Lavins	Drapery Shop	Teeling St		x		36
Lavins	Clothes Shop	Lord Edward St		x		49
McGettricks	Sport / Drapery	O’Connell St		x		67
P.F. O’Dowd	Drapery	Teeling St		x		136
Patrick Rodgers	Builder’s providers	Gorteen Rd		x		64
Perry’s	Hardware/Electrical	Teeling St		x		436
Plant Hire	Plant Hire	Sligo Rd		x		131
T. Casey	Pharmacy	Teeling St		x		34
V. McDonagh	Electrical Retail	Teeling St		x	x	262
Westwood Interiors	Home Furnishings	Teeling St		x		31
Vacancies
Butchers	Vacant	Teeling St		x		18
Cawley	Vacant	O’Connell St		x		31
Dwyers	Vacant	O’Connell St		x		25
John A. Dockery	Vacant	O’Connell St		x		44
Newsagents/Grocery	Vacant	O’Connell St		x		24
O’Breheny	Vacant	Gorteen Rd		x		31
Vacancy	Vacant	Teeling St		x		30
Vacancy	Vacant	Teeling St		x		18
Vacancy	Vacant	Teeling St		x		36
Vacant	Vacant	Lord Edward St		x		134
Vacant	Vacant	Lord Edward St		x		20
Total		35 Outlets				3572

Retail and Service Provision survey of Ballymote, dated July 2003 and updated July 2004
Ballymote Service	Usage	Street	Extent of Usage			Total Retail Floorspace (sq. m. excl. storage)
			Basement	Ground Floor	First Floor
Bank of Ireland	Bank	Lord Edward St		x		189
Barber D’s	Barber Shop	Teeling St		x		26
Beauty Salon	Beauticians	Teeling St		x		121
Chiropodist	Chiropodist	Teeling St		x		121
Classic Cleaners	Dry Cleaners	Teeling St		x		121
Coach House	Restaurant	Teeling St		x	x	840
Credit Union	Credit Union	Lord Edward St		x		60
Duffy	Accountant	Lord Edward St		x		30
Holistic Centre	Health Clinic	Teeling St				90
Johnston & Johnston	Solicitors	Teeling St		x		53
McCarricks	Auctioneers	Teeling St		x		47
McGettricks	Auctioneers	O’Connell St		x		55
Mulherns	Hairdressers	Lord Edward St		x		45
Office	Office	Teeling St		x		42
Picnic Basket	Restaurant	Lord Edward St		x		48
Post Office	Post Office	Lord Edward St		x		99
Public House	Public House	Teeling St		x		204
Public House	Public House	Lord Edward St		x		120
Rochford Gallagher	Solicitors	Lord Edward St		x		30
Scanlon	Auctioneers	Lord Edward St		x		62
Scully’s	Public House	Teeling St		x		87
Siobhan’s	Hairdressers	Lord Edward St		x		34
Stonepark	Restaurant	Teeling St		x		200
Tansey	Accountants	O’Connell St		x		72
Ulster Bank	Bank	Lord Edward St		x		92
Total		26 Outlets				2,888

Table of Contents

Section 1: Legalities & Guidance for Ballymote

1.1 The Need for this Plan

Legalities

The Vision

1.2 What’s already been said - Relevant Policies and Guidance

National Level

Regional Level

Local Level

The Sligo County Development Plan 2005 – 2011

Section 2: From Past to Present

2.1 Once Upon a Time - Historical Development

2.2 The Look - Setting and Form

2.3 People Picture – Demographic Analysis and Population Projections

Age Profile

Employment Profile

Occupational Profile

Educational Profile

Housing Structure

Possible future population

2.4 Ballymote Today

Section 3: The Future of Ballymote

3.1 Room to Develop – Capacity for Expansion

The Environment

Infrastructural Considerations

3.2 The New Ballymote – Strategy Option

Section 4: Realising the Potential

4.1 Providing Housing

Objectives for Housing

4.2 Establishing Quality Networks - Natural Environment and Recreational Open Spaces

Value of Hedgerows

Objectives for Establishing Quality Networks

4.3 Remnants of the Past - Archaeology

Objectives for Archaeology

4.4 Significant Structures - Architectural Heritage

Objectives for Architectural Heritage

4.5 Designing Ballymote

Enclosure

Boundary Treatment

Building Height

Urban Edge

Building Condition

Dereliction

Design Features

Character Areas

Scope for Improvement

Junction to the west of Teeling Street in front of the Loftus Hall incorporating the adjacent Brownfield site

Junction to the east of Teeling Street incorporating the former cinema and Cattle Mart area

Objectives for Urban Design

4.6 Where to Buy What – Retailing in Ballymote

Objectives for Retailing

4.7 Working in Ballymote - Industry and Office Development

Objectives for Employment

4.8 The Needs of the Community

Garda Siochana

Educational Profile

Health Care Facilities

Childcare Facilities

Burial Grounds

Recreational Facilities

Objectives for Community Facilities

4.9 Tourism

Assets of Ballymote in terms of tourism potential

Objectives for Tourism

4.10 Getting Around – Transport

Traffic Circulation

Pedestrian / Cyclist Facilities

Public Transport

Objectives for Transport

4.11 Piping, Plumbing & Cabling – Infrastructural Utilities

Water, Sewerage and Drainage

Waste Management Services

Energy and Telecommunications

Objectives for Infrastructural Utilities

4.12 Getting things done - Implementation

Development Contribution Scheme

Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (PEACE 11)

Urban and Village Renewal Measure 2001 – 2006

The Community and Voluntary Grant Scheme

The Combat Poverty Agency