Talks advance on Shantalla helipad plan

A BREAKTHOUGH may be in sight over a “land grab” of public parkland in Shantalla after high-level negotiations took place between Galway City Council and the HSE.

Talks have advanced between the parties, raising hopes of a resolution to the long-running dispute between residents and the HSE over proposals for a helipad.

Constructive engagement and what officials described as “progressive discussions” have taken place in recent weeks and further progress is expected.

At this month’s meeting of Galway City Council, councillors were informed that the next step is to finalise negotiations with the HSE.

Officials said the health authority was willing to support the local community to find an alternative solution for the loss of parkland.

“There are positive implications that they would like to support the community in identifying an alternative solution for the loss of that area of the park,” officials said.

Members were also told that the HSE was working with BusConnects planners to ensure a dedicated bus route either through or beside the hospital campus.

Councillors were assured that no final agreement would be made without community consultation, and a motion confirming that commitment was passed at the meeting.

“We need to get our own house in order,” officials said. “The community will be fully informed and fully briefed.”

The dispute dates to 2013, when Galway City Council transferred public land in Shantalla to the HSE for six months to facilitate a temporary helipad for UHG.

The HSE is now seeking a permanent transfer to develop a full heliport, including two landing pads and direct access to the hospital.

The proposal has triggered significant local oppositon and any permanent land transfer will require approval from councillors.

Labour Cllr John McDonagh previously described the plan as a “land grab” and said the situation had become a “chicken and egg” dilemma.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.

Pictured: The helipad facility on lands next to UHG.