Crowe welcomes Rovers to Tallaght
A South Dublin County Council decision to grant Shamrock Rovers planning permission for their new site in Tallaght has been welcomed by Sinn Féin Councillor Seán Crowe this week.
Crowe, however, did express some reservations regarding the processes by which Rovers' relocation came about. ``I would like to put on the record that I, as a public representative, have many difficulties with this proposed development. I share the unease of many individuals at how this site was selected and how land which was not owned by South Dublin County Council became available,'' he said.
The Rovers' plan met opposition from some local residents and the Old Bawn Community School, which is situated close to the proposed stadium site.
``My primary worry is the effect which this development might have on Old Bawn Community School, particularly in relation to possible disruption of night classes,'' said Seán Crowe.
Fellow Sinn Féin councillor, Mark Daly, said that the issue had been divisive in Old Bawn from the very outset. Although supporting the motion, he said that ``at a personal level I am not in favour of this stadium due to th elevel of disruption to the local school and community. However following lengthy discussions, Sinn Féin in Tallaght have decided to support this project, albeit with major reservations. I stand by that decision.''
Crowe commented: ``I find it difficult to believe that no minutes were kept between council officials and the former principles of Old Bawn Community School regarding the controversial land swop, and I am not satisfied with the answers which I have been given to these questions.''
The relocation plan is part of the latest investment grants to soccer clubs from the National Lottery. Cork City, Sligo Rovers and Finn Harps are also embarking on various projects aimed at improving spectator facilities at their respective grounds. This means that of the 12 Premier Division clubs, nine are in the process of major development plans.
Seán Crowe urged Rovers to establish a community liaison committee in order to minimise any inconvenience to local people.
``The greatest problem that will be faced by Shamrock Rovers is overcoming the fear of the unknown shared by local residents,'' he said. ``As someone who followed Rovers in the glory days of Glenmalure Park, I can only hope that young people from Tallaght experience a fraction of the excitement and enjoyment that I experienced in those days.''
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