Westmeath County Council have acknowledged the large numbers of applicants and say that there are more affordable housing sites in the pipeline

The local Minister has also confirmed that he is fully tax compliant, refuting claims made this week.

The issue was raised at a health forum meeting this week.

Westmeath Councillors will vote on the project in September.

It's the second time in two years the retention has been applied for.

The Athlone man follows in his grandfather's footsteps.

The appeal had raised concerns over the loss of car parking spaces at the centre.