Introduction by the Cathaoirleach and Chief Executive We are delighted to introduce Clare County Council’s Annual Report for the calendar year 2017. The details of the council’s achievements during the year are set out under each directorate’s report, but we would like to take this opportunity to highlight some the many services provided by the council, its departments and the Elected Members during the year. During 2017, Clare County Council billed a total of €42.5m in rates. The collection of commercial rates continued to improve on previous years. In the area of planning and economic development, the Clare County Development Plan 2017-2023 became effective and contained key objectives aimed at stimulating the sustainable economic, rural and social development of the county. Elements of the Shannon Green Infrastructure Plan were implemented while 20 residential housing estates were taken in charge by Clare County Council. Three projects outlined under the Clare Heritage Plan were progressed. A net total of 149 new jobs were delivered by small businesses that have been supported by the Local Enterprise Office. 2017 was a year marked by a number of progressive developments relating to the council’s role in supporting local tourism. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, Loop Head Lighthouse and the Bird Viewing and Information Point (BVIP) in Mountshannon continued to attract large numbers of visitors. The Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Geopark and Lough Derg Marketing Group promoted sustainable tourism in the region. A Visitor Management and Sustainable Tourism Development Plan for Inis Cealtra was finalised. Clare Tourism promoted and marketed Co. Clare as a tourism destination, while the council played a key role in the hosting of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Ennis. Significant progress was made in relation to the maintenance and improvement of the national, regional and local road network, while a number of road safety and flood relief works were progressed. By the end of 2017, a total of €16.1 million had been spent on the coastal remediation programme (€2.5 million in 2017). The 2017 Schedule of Municipal District Works provided for a Roadworks Programme which had a total fund of €18.5m.
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