Questions Asked Over Lack Of Updates For Vacant HSE Building In Delgany.

Deputy Jennifer Whitmore has written to the HSE requesting an update on the status of the transfer of the vacant HSE building in Delgany to Wicklow County Council for community use.

Speaking on the issue, Deputy Whitmore says:

“The HSE's building in Delgany has sat vacant for a number of years. It is a building located right in the middle of the village, and it's a real shame that it isn’t being actively used. Over a year ago, when I first raised this with the HSE, I learned that the building was about to go on the open market for sale. I then requested that the building be examined as a possible community centre.

"I have since been in regular contact with the HSE and Council in relation to this matter, and I was delighted in September last year to receive confirmation from the HSE that they were in dialogue with officials in Wicklow County Council to transfer the building. At that time, they confirmed to me that a valuation was being done and the contract for sale would progress in Q1 2023.”

“With Delgany crying out for a community space, including a location to showcase its diverse history including nature walks, the Three Trouts Stream and its unique archaeological heritage, it was welcome news last year to hear that progress was underway to transfer the building to the Council. However, the promised update for Q1 in 2023 has not materialised, which is why I have again written to the HSE.”

“ Delgany is a growing community, with much housing development in progress. Unfortunately, community infrastructure has not kept pace with this growth, and a community centre is very much needed in the village. The Delgany Community Council have campaigned long and hard on commencing the negotiations last year with Wicklow County Council to acquire the building and we need to see some tangible results with the process.  The long-term benefit for the local community and the wider community of Wicklow County will be immense and I am hopeful of a positive response from the HSE.”