Monaghan Tidy Towns Development Plan 2013-2016 Looking Ahead Plan prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Surveys of Monaghan Town 3. Monaghan Voices: How Volunteers and Residents think about their Town 4. Looking Back - Past Progress by Monaghan Tidy Towns 5. Looking Ahead: Our Aspirations for Monaghan as a Tidy Town 2013-2016 6. The Plan 2013 Acknowledgements This plan was prepared by Billy Flynn of Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants for Monaghan Tidy Towns. The author would like to thank Emer Brennan for all of her help, advice and enthusiasm to the Tidy Towns Project. Thanks to Denis for so much of his time and expertise and to all of the Tidy Towns Committee and volunteers for their input into this plan and for their ongoing efforts to make Monaghan even better. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants Ballynagaragh, Kilbrittain, Co. Cork T: 021 4778514 M: 086 2768917 /086 2737497 E: simon@flynnfurney.com / billy@flynnfurney.com Web: www.flynnfurney.com and www.willovation.com Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants Ltd is a registered company Company Registration No: 9577655C VAT Registration No: IE 9577655C
1. Introduction Welcome to Monaghan The town of Monaghan is the principal town of the county and has a population of just under 7,500 people at the 2011 census. It is located to the north of the county (found at 54.247926 N and 6.970825 W, IGR H 668 338), less than 10km from the border it shares with County Armagh in Northern Ireland. Monaghan is in the heart of the Drumlin belt and it is within this landscape that the town of Monaghan lies. Several of the more prominent of the town s buildings - its hospital and cathedral - as well as its largest housing estate stand on hills overlooking the town. An interpretation of Muineachan is land [or area] of little hills. The town links two national roads, the N54 and the N2. The town was once an important railway junction of the Great Northern Railway until 1960 when the closure of the last remaining lines took place. There are now no railway services in Monaghan (although the county once had 17 railway stations!). The town also stands on the Ulster Canal, a commercial artery which, never really achieving its intended success, was abandoned in 1931, less than a hundred years since its completion. The Ulster Canal is getting a second chance though, Waterways Ireland is leading a major project to reopen the canal. The first part of this scheme will link Lough Erne to Clones but Monaghan may well be the next marina down the canal! The town centre is largely defined by four squares which are interconnected by streets. Given the size of the town, there are relatively few green areas within the town centre, exceptions to this being Peter s Lake and the Ulster Canal Park. The town hosts some really fine The town is surrounded by agricultural lands and there are a number of small lakes within and on the edge of the town s boundary. There are a number of churches on the edge of the town and St. Macartan s Cathedral (dedicated in 1892) stands impressively to the west of the town. The boys college of the same name and the girls convent on the other side of the town are also among the largest and most impressive buildings of the town. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 1
What this Plan is For The purpose of this plan is to allow Monaghan Tidy Towns to describe, classify and prioritise actions for the coming 3 years. Primarily, this sets out a timescale for recommended actions for the Tidy Towns Association. However, its function is not limited to that. The Tidy Towns Competition allows an excellent vehicle for driving on community actions, and these need not be initiated, led by or even actively involve the Tidy Towns group. However, the rising tide that lifts all boats is an accurate way of describing an effective Tidy Towns project. The competition is so broad and multi- faceted, community- wide benefits accompany successful Tidy Towns work. The competition is now divided into ten categories. This plan has followed the structure of the competition so as to allow the group easily to examine whether targets are being met in each action area. Similarly, the Plan allows the Monaghan group to check their long- term progress by assessing whether the long- term aims are being rotated and met. This is explained below. Looking Ahead: How the Plan will Work The first section of this document sets out a concise description of Monaghan in terms of the Tidy Towns Competition, briefly describing its history in the competition. The author carried out a number of walkover surveys of Monaghan during the writing of this plan. The results of these are given in Section 2. Section 3 describes some of the feedback. Section4 looks at the recent history of the organisation in the competition and its most recent work. Section 5 sets out some of the medium to long- term goals of Monaghan Tidy Towns, based on the information collected. Finally, Section 6 is The Plan. Each category of the Tidy Towns competition is addressed within this plan. Issues arising from survey, adjudicators reports, public and volunteer consultation and contributing documents are listed and classified in terms of priority and timeframe for address and completion. The plan is formulated with Year 1 (2013) of the plan having those tasks of highest priority listed for action in the short- term. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 2
Thus, the plan may be updated on a yearly basis and tasks rotated from the long- term to the here and now as they reach completion. Therefore, a fresh and relevant plan may easily be produced each year during the time frame of this plan. Monaghan - A Tidy Town? Monaghan has a reasonably long history in Tidy Towns. However, it is not since 1997 that a Tidy Towns group existed in the town. Prior to that, the Urban District Council entered the town. It is sufficient to say that marks were not high during this time. Since this, the group has made great progress. Significant strides were reported even then. One is noteworthy - the group was praised for the involvement of young people in the group s efforts. This remains true today and is a genuine strength of Monaghan Tidy Towns. Another notable feature is wide involvement across the community. The group has a good record of work with and alongside the Town Council, businesses and schools. There is also a significant buy- in from residents with strong participation from residential areas. The use of media has been evident from local press and radio. The advent of a Monaghan Tidy Towns Website in 2008 was another turning point for the group, allowing greater access to information. Use of social media will increase further the group s ability to reach out and contact more residents and volunteers. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 3
2. Surveys of Monaghan Town This section describes the findings of a number of walkover surveys of Monaghan that were carried out in 2013. The Built Environment There was a very high standard of presentation seen in the businesses on Market Street and Park St. Businesses are seen to be proactive in Monaghan in terms of upkeep and long- term maintenance. Some good examples of alternative displays are section at the YWCA and the crèche opposite. Modern treatments such as that at the Poc Fada are excellent. Maintenance of sash windows at buildings such as Black s, McNally s and Boyle s was admired. Could Heaton s use real merchandise for their side window displays rather than posters? The rest of the shop s presentation is excellent. The heritage buildings on North Road are kept very well. A sign appears to be missing from the old COI School and the gates need some attention. Some minor works are required at the railway station. Piping and guttering should be attended to. Poor business signage on a heritage building like this should be discouraged. The wooden gates should be painted. Treanor s - former public house - is in poor condition. The advertising here on the gable end should be removed and the gable repainted. The new (unfortunately mostly empty) building at the corner of Old Cross Square was designed to echo the unique rounded corners of Monaghan. The signage in the windows is poor and there is an abundance of plastic. The we buy clothing signage is very poor. The Chinese restaurant that suffered the fire should be made more presentable if possible. Other adjacent shops here have very poor first floor signage which should be removed. The former guesthouse beside Aviemore House is now for sale and empty. The window frames and garden are crying for attention. There is also poor signage on the gable of this lovely building. The big garage building at Sam s /Maxol looks really well painted red and white. Could the sign on this be repainted or replaced? Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 4
Heritage buildings such as the Museum, Bank of Ireland, Courthouse and Market House were seen to be in excellent condition at time of survey. There is now an excellent selection of coffee shops and restaurants in Monaghan. Be sure to bring this to the attention of the adjudicator! Landscaping Peter s Lake is possibly the finest of Monaghan s landscaped areas and blends natural background with modern furniture. An overhaul of the landscaped area at the front of the railway station should be carried out. Similarly, a landscape plan for the frontage of the General Hospital is badly needed. Landscaping on the approach roads is low- key and largely natural. The planting at the shopping centre cross roads is excellent. The Leisure Complex also looks good. Wildlife and Natural Amenities The SAGE garden is excellent. Very neat and well- planned. Be sure to keep the birdfeeders fed. The Japanese knotweed infestation at Street Louis Convent has worsened. This should be tackled by the ground- keepers, under good supervision. The new wildlife signage at Peter s lake looks well. signage is expected for a forthcoming wildlife trail. New Litter Control The standard was generally high. However, Ulster Canal Park was very poor. Sustainable Waste & Resource Management Overall, the 5 bottle banks/bring centres in use by the town are in remarkably good condition. All were at least reasonably clean and neat at time of survey. The bottle banks at Teach na ndaoine were perhaps in the best condition. The bottle bank Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 5
in the large car- park is a dead- end. Could this be made into a drive- through? There are now a number of 2nd hand shops. Apart from raising money for charity, these are a very valid form of reuse of unwanted materials. Tidiness Overall, there were few tidiness issues to report for a town of this size. There is far too much on- street shop signage. Some of this is really poor, unsuiatble and is in places blocking the pavements. There is also an over abundance of signage at the Monaghan Denture Clinic. These detract from the building. Some gates are in need of attention. These include at the railway station and on the laneway opposite the side of the Westenra Hotel. If baskets or plant cages are put up, these should be kept filled. Empty cases were noted at the library. There are some old unused lamposts (e.g. at front of hospital) which could be removed. The railings on Macartan Rd are in need of painting (they are half- done). The grounds around the Texaco Station are in need of weeding and tidying. There was a life- belt missing at Ulster Canal Park. The electricity junction boxes at the corner opposite Dunnes Stores are askew and in need of attention. Could they be moved? The McDonalds signs nearby should be removed altogther as they are unsuitable. While there was much clutter at Sam s Diner, It was noted that the area was clean and weed- free and the machinery was in good condition. However, some efforts to consolidate this area could be made. The planting of more birch trees here (on both Ulster Canal side and side facing the roundabout) should be carried out. This will provide screening. The poor signage here (e.g. leaning against palettes) should be replaced. The palisade fencing at Oriel Windows should be painted (black). Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 6
Graffiti are an issue in several places. e.g. on the gable wall of disused premises facing the Ulster Canal Park, on some junction boxes, at R&S Lane and on some litterbins. Residential Areas Here too, a high level of care was noted. The survey was not carried out at optimal time for viewing landscape planting or flowers. However, a significant number of recent trees were seen. Signage was typically good, although some routine cleaning will be needed a little graffiti removed. Kerbs and paths were neat almost throughout with effective speed controls in housing estates. Roads, Streets and Back Areas This is an area in which Monaghan seems to be excelling. The newly landscaped and laid out Old Cross Square and Diamond are now features of which you can be proud. Church Square was hard to fault. A tree needs to be replaced in front of the Courthouse. A high level of care was seen on small streets and side lanes beside businesses. Rowantree Road is an example. The new signage system is very good. The colour scheme was admired. Could this colour scheme be rolled out to the rest of Monaghan? Is the colour- coding of the parking areas still in operation? This wasn t clear. It should be discarded from signs if not in use. The use of murals in back lanes (e.g. at Dublin Street) is very effective. This could be widened. The archway over the Northern Standard laneway should be painted (in black) as it is almost invisible and this is part of Monaghan s heritage too. Similarly, the empty plaque above the alleyway beside Magill s is in need of work. What was this? The approach road from Milltown is very nice. There is a combination of stone walls with grassy verges. There are some potholes here, though. The road surface on the Glen Road is uneven. The footpath (and road) opposite the convent is shockingly poor. There are many issues with the levels and safety of the large car- park here. The fencing outside of this is in need of painting. The approach road (N2) is almost uniformly good. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 7
General Impression Even as a frequent visitor to Monaghan, the author found himself impressed by the improvements that may be seen in many areas. The overall impression is one of care and attention to detail. The businesses are a huge asset. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 8
3. Monaghan Voices: How Volunteers and Residents think about their Town Two meetings were held with memebrs and volunteers of Monaghan Tidy Towns. The purpose of these was to get first- hand opinions from Monaghan residents and Tidy Towns activists alike on the main issues as they saw them and to gather suggestions for solutions to these. Ideas for further projects were also sought. Meeting the Junior Tidy Towns and Leaders 27 March 2013 Below is an account of how Youth Leaders, some young people and their parents described their Tidy Towns experience in Monaghan to date: - The older children in Cluain Lorcan aren t keen to get involved. The average age of the Junior Tidy Towns is 8 or lower. There are 33 to 36 houses in Cluain Lorcan with around 100 children. - Around 40 children participated in Pound Hill last year. Here also there is a problem involving children over the age of 8. There were possibly too many trips and other rewards last year (e.g. the trip to Tayto Park!), leaving no tangible incentive for further involvement from the children. - Workshops are generally held for children during the summer. - Litter- picking has really been the only project involving children to date. - A points and badges reward system has been undertaken and this hasn t been entirely succesful. A flag system for estates (akin to that of the Green Flag award) was suggested by the author. Certificates, rather than prizes were also suggested. Perhaps a volunteer of the month could be selected - with a perpetual trophy? These ideas were well- received. Involving children with planting has been considered. This was thought to be a good idea. The children could also be involved with the making and putting up of batboxes. Signs for the bug hotels and wildlife areas could also be made by young people. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 9
Ideas were needed for Coolshanagh - where space is limited. Suggestions for insect- friendly plants for the estates were also sought. Meeting Tidy Towns Group and Others 9 April 2013 Overall Development Approach Q. What are the big issues facing the town and you - as a group? - Keeping the town tidy - Dog litter - Signage in proper place - Not fining offenders - Enforcement of Derelict Buildings Act - More art - Making the town more attractive to tourists - prettifying it - Expanding the town centre Q. How do you think you work as a group? - Very good - Very proud of our juniors - The team leaders of above are a major asset Q. How do you think you work with others? We work well with the Town Council We get on well with the Chamber of Commerce [Reps of Shanabhan reported that they] Were not very happy with the Town Council [Several people reported that] Many neighbours unwilling to help Cluain Ard has problems - they have no playground and the Blackwater River is nearby Built Environment Q. What are our best buildings? - Market House - Museum - Town Hall - Courthouse - AIB - Westenra - Squeeling Pig Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 10
- Aviemore House - Cathedral - St. Joseph s - The Shambles Pub Q. Which would you rather the adjudicator didn t see? - Drumlee - Oriel - Assembly Rooms - Park Inn - Treanors (Bar) - The hole in the ground - The area opposite the railway station - The [Town] Council yard Q. Where is work most needed? - Roadside wall at Latlurcan - Door of Johnny Kiernan s garage Landscaping Q. What have we got that we like? - Peter s Lake - Railway Station - Roantree Road - Glen Road - St Louis Convent Q. What needs work? - Bypass - it s a bit dull and needs colour - The roundabouts - they need lighting, perhaps a monumnet, art - What landscaping have you seen that you like? - Adare - The roundabouts at Carrick[macross] - Dundalk s roundabouts Wildlife and Natural Amenities Q. What are most important areas? - Rossmore Park Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 11
- Ulster Canal Park - The Glen - Tom Young s Wood - The back of the monument - Ballyalbany - The old trees of the town Q. What should we be doing for these areas? - There s not enough information on these - Tell people via schools - Sound media - A photo competition Litter Control Q. Does Monaghan have a litter problem? - Yes, it does. - The new square surface is very easily marked - Dublin Street, especially the chippers are very bad - The council s new policy [of not litter- picking on Bank Holidays] is a big issue - 3 nightclubs kicking out at the same time is part of the problem - The town itself is not so bad - Car- borne litter is the big problem - This [above] falls to Tidy Towns and community service participants to tackle Q. How might these problems be tackled? - Anti- litter signage should be multilingual - Fast- food shop owners should pick- up better - Flyers could be used - Some high- profile fines - Nudge actions could be taken - better bins? - the litterbins themeselves are a problem- they are unsightly Q. Are there any litter hotspots? - The North Road - all the way out to Topaz - Glen Road - Coolshanagh - atop the wall. Q. Is there enough participation in tackling litter? Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 12
- No, too much falls on too few to do - A crowd attracts a crowd so if we do more - This [above] is true Tidiness - Generally speaking, the town is tidy - Some fly- posting is occasional issue - The [housing] estates have many issues - Places like Montfort need repeated visits [- arising from the above, respondents were asked to draw up a list of issues in estates. The idea of a rota whereby volunteers would rotate their work around estates that historically have seen little activity. This was particularly welcomed by Coolshanagh Walk residents. ] - Spring Clean will continue to be carried out in estates Roads, Streets and Back Areas Q. Where are the main areas for work? - The bypass (N2) needs contant work - The Glen - North Road - Car litter is a problem that will never go away Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 10
4. Looking Back - Past Progress by Monaghan Tidy Towns Monaghan has quite a long history in the Tidy Towns Competition and improvement has been a feature for much of this. This section of the document looks at how the town has progressed in the various parts of the competition over the last few years. In 2012, Monaghan Tidy Towns enjoyed a great boost on receiving a massive 21 point increase, winning the endeavour award for this year. This was an exceptional increase but was strongly defended by the adjudicator who gave detailed account of the improvements seen on the day - but had taken many years to achieve. For put this in context- in 1998, the first year of an organised Tidy Towns Association in Monaghan, the town scored 144 points from a possible 300, only 48% of the marks available. In 2012, Monaghan stands at 269 points (over 67% of marks available), placing it 5th overall in the county. In the same year, this category (E) was won by Westport with 311 points. The top Silver Medallist in this category in 2012 was Dungarvan, Co. Waterford on 295 points and the Bronze went to Youghal on 285 points. Below are the marks, per category scored by Monaghan over the last three years. Monaghan Tidy Towns Results Analysis Max Possible 2010 2011 2012 2011 2012 % diff % diff to 2010 to 2011 Categories Overall Development 1 Approach 50 42 42 43 0.00 2.38 2 The Built Environment 50 35 40 42 14.29 5.00 3 Landscaping 50 28 29 31 3.57 6.90 Wildlife and Natural 4 Amenities 50 20 22 27 10.00 22.73 5 Litter Control 50 25 25 28 0.00 12.00 6 Tidiness 30 15 15 15 0.00 0.00 7 Waste Minimisation 20 10 11 12 10.00 9.09 8 Residential Areas 40 26 26 30 0.00 15.38 9 Roads, Streets and Back Areas 50 30 30 33 0.00 10.00 10 General Impression 10 8 8 8 0.00 0.00 400 239 248 269 3.77 8.47 It can be seen that an increase of just over 12% year on year in total marks has been scored over the last two adjudications. The most significant increases have been in Built Environment in 2011 and in Wildlife and Natural Amenities and Residential areas in 2012. No change in scores in 6 of the 10 categories was seen in 2011. However, the 2012 adjudication saw increases in all but 2 categories. More positively still, the year on year increases in the Built Environment and Wildlife and Natural Amenities indicate ongoing interest and sustained actions. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 14
Knowing Your Area: Monaghan s progress in gathering key information Since 2009, when the last Development Plan for Monaghan Tidy Towns was drawn up, the groups work has been significantly more forward- looking and coherent. Testamnet to this are a number of specific projects which carried out out survey, analysis and descriptions and contribute to the groups planning. These are: 2009: Litter Management Plan for Monaghan Town 2010: Monaghan Town Habitat Survey 2011: Draft Biodiversity Plan 2012: Management Plan for Tom Young s Wd 2012: Monaghan Town Bird Survey 2012: Monaghan Town Tree Survey 2012: Waste Prevention Survey This is an exceptional volume of work. The author is aware that an architectural survey has also been carried out (but is not at hand at time of writing) and a photographic catalogue of the town also exists. Monaghan Town and Litter: Performance in IBAL In 2011, the Irish Businesses Against Litter surveys placed Monaghan joint 23rd out of 53 towns surveyed. This ment that Monaghan kept its place in the Clean to European Norms classification. That year, Monaghan was one of only 9 towns to sustain this classification over 5 consecutive years. This earned the town the IBAL Sustained Excellence Award. However, in 2012, Monaghan was placed 31st out of 42 towns surveyed. Whilsts still retaining its Clean to European Norms standing, this was a significantly poorer result. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 15
5. Looking Ahead: Our Aspirations for Monaghan as a Tidy Town 2013-2016 This section of the report takes a look forward: based upon the contributions of Tidy Towns organisers, volunteers and residents; the needs as indicated by past results in the competition; the previous 3- Year Development Plan and associated documents and the findings of the present author, the following section sets out where we would hope to develop the Monaghan Tidy Towns Project in the near future. The Plan is set out as follows: The Plan follows the categories of the competition. The tasks required in each of these are set out in the next few pages with a description and the and a recommended timeframe from their completion. These are also colour- coded to indicate the timeframe. These are shown as: Green: Priority Tasks - To be begun and carried out in 2013. May also be ongoing from 2013 Orange: Not Priority Tasks - but to be begun in 2013 Blue: Long- Term Projects - to be carried out over a longer timeframe White: Tasks Section 6 is the Year Plan. The Year Plan 2013 is this Section on the date of the launch of this Plan. As tasks are completed or moved from Priority Task status, they may be removed from the plan or reclassified. This way, a pertinent plan may be produced every year. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 16
Overall Development Approach Tasks Work should focus on promoting the Tidy Towns group s work as an ongoing part of the community. This has been achieved well in the past with great exposure in local media. Looking forward, it is recommended that the group select a theme per unit time (e.g. per quarter or monthly) and promote this via the web and traditional media. It is highly recommended that a new volunteer per theme be appointed to each campaign in order to keep volunteers from getting jaded. Themes may be chosen from areas for work as described in this report and this section therein. The Junior Monaghan Tidy Towns is a major asset and is to be nurtured. The existence and activity of the group sets Monaghan apart from several comparable towns. A Volunteer of the Month award should be devised for voluntary participants in your work between the ages of 8 and 18 years. The Annual Monaghan Tidy Towns Awards are an excellent initiative and should be continued. A category for schools and youth volunteer of the year should be added. Although Monaghan Tidy Towns has admirable volunteer numbers, it is recommended that an annual recruitment drive is held annually. Again, this may be rotated among volunteers to head up and be themed differently each year. A review of funding sources, streams and potential should be held regularly - quarterly is recommended. This should be placed to take advantage of grants and funding programmes such as Development Funds and LA21 grants. It is highly recommended that a new logo for the Tidy Towns Association be commissioned. This may be created cost- effectively as part of a competition. It is recommended that a series of Tidy Towns Projects for the Youth arm of the association that do not involve litter- picking are drawn up in order to keep and attract volunteers. The standard of entry material of the Tidy Towns group is extremely high. In the past a principle of more is better was applied to entries. Now (see Tidy Towns Guidelines 2012), this has changed and less is more applies. The group has an extremely high standard of presentation and mastery of digital media. These should be harnessed to produce streamlined entries. Non- technical summaries of reports will suffice for entry, for example. Do remember that these reports are primarily for your use and reference and not to gain points. Timeframe At least quarterly Monthly 2013 : Annually : Quarterly 2013 2013 2013 and Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 17
The Built Environment Tasks At time of writing, the County Monaghan Heritage Plan (2012-17) was being produced. This contains a number of actions related to the unique built heritage of Monaghan town. It is recommended that the Tidy Towns Association adopt this plan as an overarching guide to conservation and appreciation of Monaghan s built heritage and support and where possible contribute to the information- seeking actions applicable to the town. This will include the participation of the group in surveys and awareness events. The treatment of the old and disused shopfronts by the group has been highly commendable. It is recommended that high standards are maintained in this regard. Shopfronts may be used as history projects, art galleries, Tidy Towns notice boards or as pop- up shop windows. It is recommended that this be continued. The Gavan Duffy project window has won much praise. It is recommended that the empty windows of Alma House and Gillander s - given their prominent location - may be used as galleries (e.g. for photographic competitions, art exhibitions etc.). Ideally, these shopfronts should not be left without content for the summer months. The standard to which the Tidy Towns Association has carried out cosmetic improvements on derelict houses has also been exemplary and has won some renown. This should be maintained. An ongoing survey of derelict and empty premises should be carried out as part of the group s work. Another survey, of occupied premises should note and classify minor works (e.g. upkeep of iron- work) on occupied buildings. The owners and occupiers of the railway station should be contacted and upkeep work carried out on the building and grounds. Poor and unsuitable signage should be removed. The Tidy Towns will work with several agencies to ensure that this work is carried out correctly. Funding may be sought to assist this. The (new) initiative promoting window- boxes for businesses should be made multi- annual and a subject for award. The Painting the Town project is excellent and should be maintained. This is an ideal project to attract funding and should be promoted with this as a secondary aim. Timeframe 2013 and ongoing 2013 and ongoing 2014-2016 2014-2016 2013-2014 Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 18
Landscaping Tasks Timeframe A landscaping plan for the town should be drawn up. This need not be 2013-14 and overly complex or long- term. Rather, it should focus on the key needs for ongoing areas to be landscaped over 3 years with a realistic amount of expenditure. The frontage of the general hospital grounds should be surveyed and a 2013-2016 landscape plan drawn up for this. This is to be implemented during the lifetime of this plan. The (N2- N12) by- pass is in need of some brightening. In the medium to 2013-2016 long- term, this should be considered as part of the above plan. In the shorter term, the committee includes sufficient expertise to devise a low- cost improvement to some limited areas of this. Some additional landscaping work is recommended on the Clones Road. 2014-2016 However, this is not urgently required - the road has received positive feedback and comments from volunteers and the previous adjudicators. A series of sponsored flower beds may be considered. Such schemes have been successful in other towns where businesses sponsor plants, volunteers assist residents with planting and the latter group maintain the beds. The boat at Peter s Lake should be removed if it degrades in quality. 2014-2016 Further planting of climbers on the wall at Peter s Lake should be carried 2013 out. A sculpture project is to be considered here. 2014 Hanging baskets will be maintained at a few selected locations. The empahsis of the town s landscaping will focus on less water- needy means of decoration. A complete piece of sculpture or other art will be decided for the corner of 2015 Rowantree Road and North Road evoking the railway heritage of this area. Planting will be planned and implemented at the gate of the Collegiate 2014 School. This should be carried out in co- operation with the students. Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 19
Wildlife and Natural Amenities Tasks All of the 11 no. areas listed in your Biodiversity Action Plan as important for local biodiversity are to be monitored for any damaging activities or other pressures. Tom Young s Wood is a key area in your Local Biodiversity Action Plan. This area is highest in terms of priority for conservation. The outdoor classroom here is an excellent initiative and should be utilised as fully as possible. The Tidy Towns Association should continue to participate in the biodiversity awareness work currently being carried out in conjunction with Monaghan County Council on the Ulster Canal Greenway. Timeframe The new self- guided Nature Trail signage is to be completed. 2013 The Tidy Towns Association should take on one new Wildlife and Natural Amenities project per year which contributes information to the knowledge of protected species and their habitats in Monaghan town. Three of these suggested are: - A survey of swifts and other hirundine bird species - A survey of bat habitats in occupied and unoccupied town centre buildings - A survey of lichens on historic buildings and graveyards of Monaghan town 2013 Litter Control Tasks The Tidy Towns Association should lobby for the imposition of fines upon those found to have committed offences under littering legislation. Existing, necessary bins are to be maintained. Unnecessary litterbins should be removed. Consultation with the Town Council should take place in this regard. Novelty bins may be considered for suitable areas to nudge better behaviour and encourage better bin use. A concerted campaign to combat dog- littering should be carried out. This could include a Green Dog Walk and a slogan competition. A series of rotating anti- litter campaigns should be devised. This could have a focus on a new aspect of the litter problem every 6 months. The Ulster Canal Park should be prioritised as a litter blackspot. This must be addressed as a priority. Timeframe 2013-2016 2014 2013-2016 2013 Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 20
Sustainable Waste & Resource Management Tasks This newly named and revised category is to be studied with care. The emphasis is away from audits and toward a wide range of waste- saving and preventing initiatives. Any number of these may be chosen. 3 are suggested below: Focus on Food: Work with food retailers and the exhibitors at the Taste of Monaghan to produce a Zero- Food- Waste Week during the event. It s in the Bag: A concerted campaign that ropes retailers into handing out the message that bags should reused not bought. Householders should be targeted with surveys of how many empty shopping bags you can find in your house Waste is for the Birds: A project (possibly a competition) that challenges school- goers to produce the best birdfeeder or bird box from leftover materials. Timeframe 2013 and annually 2013 2014 Tidiness Tasks The Tidy Towns Association is to work with retailers in reducing or eliminating unsuitable, unnecessary and illegal signage. This is to include on- street signage that is obstructing the pavement. A survey of graffiti is to be carried out. While there is currently little in the town, a timeframe to remove this should be drawn up. A regular survey of street and directional signage is to be carried out. The results should then inform a schedule for cleaning or repairs of same. The North Road (to N2 / N12 roundabout) has several areas for work. These include the area around a petrol station and poorly landscaped verges. The site opposite Bus Eireann station is to be addressed in a systematic way- possibly over a number of years. This should include cleaning where possible, removal of debris and planting and painting. The operators of the cash and carry at the Rope Walk should be consulted with the aim of several improvements being made to the signage, canopy and fencing here. The owner of the EMO filling station is to be consulted in relation to tidying area to rear of premises. work with businesses is to be maintained. Timeframe 2013-2014 2013-2014 : Quarterly 2014-2016 2013-2016 2013 2013-2014 Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 21
Residential Areas Tasks The Tidy Towns Committee will always seek to have representation from all of the main housing areas whether on the committee or in consultation. The group will work in tandem with residents and other groups for the betterment of our common environment. Efforts within residential areas shall be rotated. work (as described in previous plan) with owners of derelict properties is to be maintained. An estate flag award system - based on the Green Flag model will be developed for estates that consistently work and achieve results with other parties toward the ideals of the Tidy Towns Competition. The group will work for allotments to be developed in or close to residential areas. Planting is to be carried out along the steps at the Glen. Wildflowers will be among some treatments to be used in the waste ground at Latlorcan Glen. The treatment of the fencing here will be completed. Tree- planting events such as National Tree Week will continue to be held within housing estates and in green spaces in residential areas. The Tidy Towns Association will give advice and assistance to the residents of Belgium Park. A garden project is to be considered here. Priority is to be given to Coolshanagh when planning residential area projects as this area has previosuly received little assistance. Timeframe 2014 and From 2014 2014-2015 2013 2014-2015 2013 Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 22
Roads, Streets and Back Areas Tasks Some landscaping is recommended for the N54 Clones Road. It is not recommended that this be overly elaborate. The very leafy and natural approach should not be undermined. A simple welcome plantation with a small amount of flowering plants but more green shrubs should be considered. The simple bog- oak piece is excellent. Consultation will take place on suitable treatment for the roundabout on the bypass. This may include a sculpture. Ideas for this should be invited. Monaghan Town Council should lead this. The hoarding at the back of the Courthouse should be removed by submission of this plan. However, if it is not, the Tidy Towns Association should lobby the County Council in this regard. The possibility of carrying out tree- planting at McNally s car- park should be explored. If not, some evergreen planters should be installed. At very least, the fencing here needs to be maintained. Some simple planting at the welcome sign on the Cootehill Road is recommended. The mature trees here form an excellent approach as they are. However, there is a natural feel here which would not suit topiary or a large formal floral display. The R&S (Northern Standard) Laneway should be kept free of graffiti. This laneway is evocative of many facets of Monaghan history and could be used as an outdoor exhibition space - e.g. featuring front covers of the Northern Standard on key dates (e.g. 1912, 1916, 1973, 1995). Laneways and alleyways will be kept clean by powerhosing. The large standing dead tree at the Dublin Road is to be allowed to develop into a habitat area. Some interpretive signage may be placed here. Planting of climbers is to be carried out at the Ropewalk. The surface quality of Dawson Street roadway and footpath are to be addressed as soon as possible. Timeframe 2014-2015 2014-2016 2013 2013-2014 2014-2016 2014 2013-2014 2013 Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 23
Special Awards Tasks The Tidy Towns group should enter the Notice Nature Biodiversity Award in 2013. The Local Biodiversity Action Plan, Tree Survey, Outdoor Classroom and Ulster Canal Greenway should all be entered. The Tidy Towns group should enter the bottle banks / bring centres in the 2014 competition. All will be eligible by this date. In addition to this, the Tidy Towns Association will plan an educational and artistic project which will allow the students participating to add both decoration and information to some of the bottle banks. Timeframe 2013 2014 Awareness and Promotion Tasks The Tidy Towns Association will continue its involvement with schools and the Green School programme. The group will assist schools in promoting its activities such as WOW and COW days and waste- saving initiatives. The Tidy Towns Association will continue to work on multi- annual events including National Tree Week, Biodiversity Day, Heritage Week, Spring Clean and Litter Awareness Week. Monaghan Tidy Towns is committed to using paper- free and low- energy methods of communication and promotion including Facebook, Twitter, instant messages and email. The group will work with as many agencies as possible to maximise community involvement in long- term projects such as the Ulster Canal Greenway, festivals and other events. Timeframe 2013 and ongoing 2013 and ongoing Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants May 2013 Page 24
Monaghan Tidy Towns Development Plan 2013 to 2016 Looking Ahead Year 1: 2013
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Plan 2013 Overall Developmental Approach Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. A new theme for campaigns Monaghan Tidy 2013 and should be devised regularly Towns, sponsors 2. A new youth award should be devised Monaghan Tidy Towns, Residents Groups, sponsors 2013 and 3. A new Monaghan Tidy Towns logo is to be created Monaghan Tidy Towns, schools 2013 Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Built Environment The Plan 2013 Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. The railway station should be the subject of a major upkeep project Monaghan Tidy Towns, Monaghan Town Council, Owners, Occupiers 2013-2014 2. Old and disused shopfronts are to be revitalised and used by the Tidy Towns and other groups 3. Monaghan Tidy Towns adopt the Co. Monaghan Heritage Plan and actively participate in its actions Monaghan Tidy Towns, Owners Monaghan Tidy Towns, Monaghan Town Council 2013 and 2013 and Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Plan 2013 Landscaping Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. A landscaping plan is to Monaghan Tidy Towns 2014 be drawn up 2. The grounds of the Monaghan Tidy Towns, 2016 General Hospital are to be re- landscaped HSE 3. The walls at Peter s Lake are to be planted Monaghan Town Council 2013 Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Plan 2013 Wildlife and Natural Amenities Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. Monaghan Tidy Towns should take on at least one WNA project per yr Monaghan Tidy Towns, volunteers, ecologist Annual 2. The self- guided nature trail signage is to be completed 3. The Tidy Towns Association is to work with Monaghan County Council on the biodiversity and environmental education aspects of the Ulster Canal Greenway Monaghan Tidy Towns, Monaghan Town Council Monaghan Tidy Towns. Monaghan County Council 2013 2013 Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Plan 2013 Litter control Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. The Ulster Canal Park litter blackspot must be addressed Monaghan Town Council, schools 2. A rotating system of anti- litter campaigns should be initiated 3. The litterbins must be rationalised and maintained as needed Monaghan Tidy Towns, Media Monaghan Town Council 2014 Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Plan 2013 Sustainable Waste & Resource Management Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. An anti- food waste campaign is to be Monaghan Tidy Annually organised Towns, Retailers, Exhibitors 2. A bag reduction campaign will be Monaghan Tidy 2014 hosted by the group and shops Towns, Retailers 3. A bird- feeder from waste project Monaghan Tidy Towns, schools 2013 Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Plan 2013 Tidiness Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. The site opposite the bus station is to be addressed Monaghan Tidy Towns, Site Owners, Monaghan Town Council 2016 2. Unsuitable or inappropriate signage is to be addressed 3. Graffiti is to be surveyed and removed Monaghan Tidy Towns, Retailers, Monaghan Town Council Monaghan Tidy Towns, Monaghan Town Council, Volunteers 2013-2014 2013-2014 Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Plan 2013 Residential Areas Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. The Tidy Towns Association is to Monaghan Tidy adress derelict properties Towns, Owners, Monaghan Town Council 2. The Tidy Towns Association is to assist volunteers at Coolshanagh Monaghan Tidy Towns, Residents 2013 and ongoing 3. Wildflower planting will be carried out at Latlorcan Glen Monaghan Tidy Towns, Residents 2014 and ongoing Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Plan 2013 Roads, Streets and Back Areas Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. McNally s car- park fencing and boundaries are to be addressed Monaghan Tidy Towns, Owners, Monaghan Town Council 2014 2. The hoarding at the rear of the Courthouse is to be removed or renovated 3. Road and footpath surfaces at Dawson Street are to be addressed Monaghan Town Council, Monaghan County Council Monaghan Town Council 2013 2013 Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns The Plan 2013 Special Awards Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. Monaghan Tidy Towns should enter the Special Biodiversity Award Monaghan Tidy Towns, Monaghan County Council, Ecologist (s) 2013 2. Monaghan s Bring Centres should be entered for the Bring Centre Award 3. Other award schemes should be reviewed annually for suitability Monaghan Tidy Towns, Monaghan County Council, Schools Monaghan Tidy Towns 2014 Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants
Monaghan Tidy Towns Awareness and Promotion The Plan 2013 Priority Tasks for 2013 Key Actions Project Partners Projected Completion 1. The Tidy Towns Association will continue to participate in multi- annual events Multiple: e.g. An Taisce, Crann, Heritage Council, Monaghan County Council 2. The group will engage and work with other agencies on long- term project Multiple: e.g. Monaghan County Council, Waterways Ireland, RSA Prepared for Monaghan Tidy Towns by Flynn, Furney Environmental Consultants