Friday, 9th August 2013

Fine Gael Dun Laoghaire Deputy, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, has today (Friday) welcomed the progress that is being made on the purchase of the Pres. site in Glasthule by the local Council, which intends to retain it for recreational use for the local community.

“I am delighted with the news that the Manager’s Order for the purchase of the Pres. site by Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown County Council is being signed by the County Manager, Owen Keegan, today. The long and protracted history of this site meant that for some time the future use of the sports field looked to be in jeopardy. Following a negotiation process, a deal has now been struck which allows the Council to acquire the freehold and leasehold interests in the site for a total €1.625 million.

“The fact that the amount being paid by the Council exceeds the market value of €1.250 million, as determined by the City Valuer, reflects the Council’s desire to keep the site in local use. The County Manager recognises that playing pitches are in relatively short supply in the area and has gone to great lengths to ensure that the site is retained for sports and recreational activities.

“We are lucky that the Council is in a position to use its capital balances to pay the premium price which is being sought. I acknowledge that Mr. Ben Dunne is making a considerable loss on what he originally paid for the site and I am thankful that he came to the decision to sell, as the benefits for the local area will be immeasurable.

“Everyone who has been involved in bringing these negotiations to a successful conclusion is to be commended for their hard work and efforts. Local residents and sporting hopefuls alike will no doubt be thrilled that this saga is finally coming to such a satisfying end.”