A decision on whether or not to approve the development of 14 apartments on the site of the former Flynn's Pub in Ferrybank has been deferred until October.
The decision was made among councillors at last night's Metropolitan District Meeting of Waterford City & County Council.
Waterford Council received 88 objections from local residents in relation to the proposed development.
Concerns were voiced among councillors regarding a lack of engagement with locals, and potentially misleading them.
Social housing element
Sinn Fein Councillor Jim Griffin says that while social housing is a necessity, it cannot just be put anywhere.
"Sinn Fein want social housing, like all the parties and none want social housing - but I don't think that means we should cram them into every available little property that comes. That would perhaps exceed what the area can hold. I feel that the development is too large for the area.
Cllr. Griffin says there needs to be further consultation with people in the area - while criticising the lack of consistency in public consultation processes.
"I just don't think the concerns of the residents were listened to enough - or maybe, adhered to enough that we can get them on board. I'd just ask for the deferral to see how we can get them on board. This is what lets us down as a local authority. At times, we don't do public consultation well in certain avenues. Then, we do it very well in other ways."
Speaking at the meeting, Paul Johnston of the Council Housing Department said that the highest demand across the city and county for social housing comes from Ferrybank.
'Best option'
Independent Councillor Donal Barry was in favour of the development. He told the meeting he believes that it is the best option for the residents.
He noted there have been calls for the site to be developed for the past three years, and he understands that not everyone likes change.
"Look, I fully understand the fears of residents. Nobody likes change. There's been calls for that site to be developed since 2019. To my understanding, and it's been said today - there was a meeting with some residents in June. Surely, what was said at that meeting was taken into consideration when this plan was drawn up."
Cllr. Barry noted how the site has become a hub of anti-social behaviour in its' dereliction, and says development may be the best thing.
"This might actually be the best option for the residents there. This site has been reported as the scene for organised fights, drug taking - men with sledgehammers on the roof breaking into the pub. Illegal dumping, squatters, rats and general anti-social behaviour. In my opinion, this development will enhance the area."
'No drastic change'
The Metropolitan Mayor of Waterford, Cllr. Seamus Ryan (Labour) said something must be done with the site, whether this proposed development is the answer or not.
"There's been a lot of anti-social behaviour on this site. I think it's important that there is some sort of development on it. I don't have a problem with this being delayed a month - but like Cllr Lola O'Sullivan said, we should never mislead residents. There's not going to be any drastic change to this plan.
Director of Housing for Waterford Council, Ivan Grimes, accepted the decision of the members as it was still within the timeline. However, he warned that there is little to no scope for change.
"If that's the decision of the meeting today, that's fine. I don't want to be giving people unrealistic expectations that there's much scope for change. There has been a lot of to-ing and fro-ing with the Department on this. I don't think we would get support or funding from the department if we were to go back with a further reduction in the size. I don't want to create unrealistic expectations. We are probably at the limit of what we can get the department to approve."
