A trustee of Mount Congreve has asked Waterford City and County Council to outline the long-term plan for the gardens.

The local authority took over the management of the estate a year ago.

It receives a grant of €250,000 from the State every year for the next six years as part of the transfer.

Fine Gael Councillor Pat Nugent was appointed as an interim trustee when the estate was handed over.

“Could we have an up-to-date report on whether there are any obligations for funding from this council?

“What is the short-term and long-term ideas for Mount Congreve?”

Head of economic development Michael Quinn says the council is looking at different funding streams including from Fáilte Ireland.

“Some basic works have been done in relation to the carpark area, paths and toilet facilities. I think there is a little bit of work underway in relation to seating around the coffee shop.

“I think a more extensive programme is planned but we need to see where that can be funded from. The resources wouldn’t be there to deliver all the improvements with the resources that Mount Congreve has but that is in hand.”