Blackrock Bulletin

Population growth and amenity issue

This was vented at the recent general meeting to review the progress of the local Tidy Towns organisation.

Although strictly not an issue that comes directly under the remit of the organisation, the importance of it was recognised in allowing views and opinions to be aired on the matter.

These centred on not enough amenities to cater for the spiralling population, and especially for young people to play, and leading to an increase of anti social behaviour.

Residents are keen to hear from Louth County Council what plans they have to deal with the situation, specifically in regard to the provision of amenities which clearly in the view of a lot of people aren’t sufficient to deal with such a sudden and large rise in population.

Tidy Towns group plans for further growth in 2023

THE Tidy Towns group, for their part, are pleased with the strides they have made since their formation and aim to make further advancements in the next 12 months.

This will entail entering the national Tidy Towns competition again, and to improve on the very encouraging performance and mark the area received last year.

The committee has projects in the pipeline to make the area more visible to visitors and those not that familiar with it, identifying locations to erect further townland and welcome signs.

Also, they are set to look for help in keeping the area clean and tidy.

They have a sizable core of volunteers who collect litter and rubbish on a very regular basis, which has made a big improvement in the appearance of the locality.

They have received considerable support from Louth County Council in this regard, importantly in disposing of the considerable material gathered and bagged, but they have pinpointed the need for the provision of refuse bins for dog waste.

They also previously highlighted the need for more ordinary refuse bins.

Gers Lotto jackpot rises again

THE jackpot has increased again in the Geraldines lottery.

This week, the Lotto was worth €5,400 after it was not won last week.

Work on grotto begins

OUR Lady’s Grotto in the grounds of St Oliver Plunkett Church has undergone a facelift. Work has been completed at the shrine on preserving the stone work and removing ivy at the forefront of the church adjoining the public footpath.

A laurel hedge is also being planted from the grotto to the church car park boundary.

Youth club membership back to pre-Covid levels

THE level of membership is back up at pre-Covid level as the parish youth club resumes. Ahead of the re-opening of the club this Friday, a registration night was held and nearly 60 teenagers enrolled, with many more who couldn’t be present indicating they wanted to join.

The club is seeking junior leaders – fourth to sixth year students, to help with running the club. It is also invites more adults to become involved.

Like before the community centre on Sandy Lane will be the headquarters for the club. Meetings will be held every Friday during the school term, and will run from 7.30 p.m. to 9 p.m.