The Mill Apartments, Ballisodare, Sligo – Revisited

It’s hard to believe that we are in the midst of a housing crisis and yet in Ballisodare there is an apartment block that has been sitting empty for years. I’ve read several articles that state there are between 60 – 80 apartments, it’s hard to find out the correct number, but surely that could mean 60 – 80 families could be housed if the apartments were revamped, if they can be revamped.

I visited the block back in 2011 (you can read the post here), and I’m shocked that nothing has changed since then. Surely something can be done. I think it was a crying shame that the old mill was demolished in the first place, especially when it was replaced by this eyesore.

Efforts have been made to board up the windows and paint the front of the apartment block, but at the back is a very different story, and one that will take more than a lick of paint. I’m sharing some photos I took, and some of the descriptions from the brochure about the apartments when they were finished in 2006. You can read the full brochure here.

“The complex is comprised of five blocks and each has been positioned to maximise each owner’s privacy and views of the river and countryside.”

“Natural stone has been used to finish the exteriors and to firmly bed the development into its surroundings.”

“Look out your window and bathe in the breathtaking beauty of the Ballisodare River.”

“All of these apartments have generous living areas and cleverly laid out kitchens.”

“This is the final block in development at the Mill and rather than looking onto the river all the living areas face out into the lovingly landscaped courtyard. Here children can play safely and always within view or you could just put your feet up in the sun and enjoy a good book.”

“They say God is in the detail and here attention to detail is second to none.”

“Every inch of the Mill has been architecturally designed to maximise, light, space and style.”

“The Mill’s brave design sets a new standard in apartment living.”

Does anyone have any idea what will happen to these apartments. At the moment it’s like the elephant in the room, and no amount of painting is going to make it any better. There must be some kind of plan in place, and I’d love to know what it is.