South Mayo community pushes for Town and Village Renewal Scheme

A renewed call for progress on a vital Town and Village Renewal Scheme for The Neale was made at a meeting of Swinford/Claremorris county councillors, with community leader Jacky Clancy making local representation on the matter, emphasising its importance to the area’s future.

The initiative, which began with a draft application in late 2022, has faced delays, including the loss of an architect, but the people of The Neale, along with cathaoirleach Councillor Damian Ryan, desire it to proceed to the crucial Part 8 planning stage.

The meeting stressed the need for timely progress, acknowledging past delays but stating the priority for 2025.

“We line these schemes up and feel it’s important they happen in a timely fashion,” Jacky Clancy said.

While the project did not advance in 2023, there is now a strong push to ensure it moves forward, with a commitment to public consultation and a firm place on the agenda.

Neale native Councillor Ryan remarked: “It’s hard to make projects shovel-ready, but this is the final piece of the jigsaw for the village,” urging all stakeholders to make every effort to expedite the process.

Jacky Clancy received a warm welcome, with Ryan noting it was a privilege to gather in support of the initiative. Clancy highlighted the importance of keeping the community motivated, saying: “It can be hard to keep people looking forward, but the work here is about improving the village and leaving it better for the next generation.”

Councillor Michael Burke praised the community for its transformative efforts and lauded Councillor Ryan for his contributions to The Neale’s development. “Politicians often hear about what they haven’t done, but Ryan has delivered here,” he said.

Councillor Patsy O’Brien commended the village as a model for other communities, joking about the honour of holding the meeting in O’Brien Memorial Hall.

Councillor Alma Gallagher pointed to the “great sense of ‘meitheal’ in The Neale, remarking on the need for strong committees to secure funding. “Without a mechanism to attract resources, it’s hard to succeed, but this community has what it takes,” she said.

Municipal district head Padraig Flanagan outlined the financial realities of the project, noting that while 80% of the funding could come through the scheme, the remaining 20% must be sourced locally, presenting resource challenges.

Councillor Ryan acknowledged the steady progress, while director of services Tom Gilligan complimented the well-kept village and its active community. As The Neale continues to work on finalising documentation and overcoming obstacles, the meeting reflected a united front committed to seeing the renewal scheme come to life.

Mr. Clancy concluded his remarks to officials and elected representatives by reaffirming the local committee's goal: “To leave a better village after them for the next generation.”