High number of requests for dual language signs leads to major backlog in Fermanagh and Omagh council

Fermanagh and Omagh councillors have been told it will take around two-and-a-half years to clear the backlog of dual language signage requests due to the heavy volume of applications.

In each application, residents are canvassed on their views as to dual language signage, of which a threshold of 15 per cent in favour must be reached.

Legislation states a street/road name must be expressed in English; however, it also provides the council with a discretionary power to erect a second nameplate expressing the name of the street in another language.

At the most recent meeting of the Environmental Services Committee, a report was presented by Director of Community and Wellbeing, John Boyle, who noted the Building Control service processed seven requests for dual language signage since the last meeting, canvassing all occupiers as listed on the Electoral Register, residing on the streets/roads by post to seeking their views.

Of the latest applications, three roads – all in the Mid-Tyrone/Omagh area – met the required threshold: Golan Road, Glencam Road and Glenderg Road.

Some areas will require more signage than others, depending on the road and layout, and in this instamce will amount to 18 signs, at a combined cost of £9,000.

The report pointed out the council approved a capital budget of £150,000 in February for the 2025/26 financial year as part of the estimates process, for installation of dual language signage.

This budget must also cover the cost of replacement of damaged signs.

It was further highlighted that the work is carried out within existing Building Control staff resources.

Given the number of applications received, staff resources will be monitored and kept under review

It was further stated that councillors “should note that all other Building Control work activities must continue as part of normal duties, and that this area of work does not have a dedicated resource”.

Responding to the report, UUP councillor John McClaughry enquired how many applications are in the backlog to be cleared, because: “We are seeing larger and larger [lists of requests] in which more people have no interest in the scheme.

“Is there still the same volume of requests coming in, and how long will it be until it’s cleared?”

Mr. Boyle replied: “The volume of requests has certainly slowed, although there are still a number of hundred roads to be assessed.

“Staff get round about ten roads per month, depending on the number of residents on the Electoral Register, which is associated with the amount of work.

“We get through about 120 [requests] per year, so it would be an estimated two-and-a-half years to clear the backlog.”

Approval for the latest three signs was proposed by Sinn Féin’s councillor Declan McArdle, and seconded by party colleague, councillor Tommy Maguire, which passed comfortably, despite the dissent of both Unionist parties.