Long wait for works on local laneways

€11 million bill to complete works on all laneways currently on list

Over €11 million is needed to complete works on all laneways currently on the Local Improvement Scheme waiting list in Cavan.

Councillors received a presentation at their January meeting, which showed 242 applicants are currently on the list.

Cavan received over €1.1 million in funding under the scheme last year in what was the county’s highest ever allocation.

The LIS was set up to allow local authorities across the country carry out works on private laneways, not in their ownership.

However, the lane must lead to multiple homes, farmland or a public amenity, such as a beach or other area.

John McKernan, senior engineer in the roads section, told councillors 22 lanes saw works carried out in 2021, describing the works as “a long term job”.

He said applicants cannot reapply to the scheme for a period of 10-15 years after their lane has been resurfaced so the work is carried out to a high standard to maximise the longevity of the surface.

However, while councillors welcomed the large allocation received in Cavan last year, they were critical of the perceived lack of interest in the scheme shown by the Department of Transport.

Funding was previously allocated by that Department but it has fallen under the Department of Rural and Community Development since it reopened following the recession.

Cllrs Peter McVitty (FG) and Shane P O’Reilly (Ind) both called for the scheme to return to its original department, particularly as it allocated funding for all other road projects.

Fine Gael’s Winston Bennett welcomed works carried out on lanes but said often neighbours “are left waiting”. He also urged the council to submit “as good an application” for funding this year to maximise the funding received by Cavan.

First come first served

Mr McKernan also said there are no plans to change the criteria for when works are carried out, following concerns from Cllr Sarah O’Reilly (AON).

He said lanes are currently done on a first come, first served basis and there are no plans to change this. Any change would require the consent of councillors.