This article is from page 34 of the 2007-07-17 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 34 JPG
HERITAGE group, Duchas na Sion- na, has outlined a number of concerns regarding the proposed major over- haul of Shannon town centre.
In its submission regarding the pro- posed development, Duchas na Sion- na has referred to archaeological and wildlife concerns, while it has also made recommendations relating to pedestrianisation.
“A primary site of archaeological concern would be the old roadway that joins the Sli na Mara boreen. This is the oldest existing roadway in the entire Shannon area, featuring on the Ordnance Survey map of 1841
and also dating back to an appearance on Henry Pelhams map of 1787. We strongly feel that it must be a matter of the highest priority that the remain- ing sections of this road should be preserved and maintained so, that no further sections of the existing road are lost or destroyed,” stated the sub- mission.
Duchas na Sionna has suggested that the road and boreen be incorporated into any new development, “in an im- aginative way.
“Tt could be a unique aspect of a new town if surrounded by a parkland or nature reserve, thereby incorporating the ancient and modern as part of a new development,’ stated the submis-
sion.
It is also calling for the placename ‘Slina Mara’ to be preserved and used as an integral name of central signifi- cance in any new development.
“The archaeological group on our committee also strongly suggest that a full archaeological audit and survey be carried out, prior to the commence- ment of any preliminary works on the Site,” it stated.
The group is also calling for the provision of a number of areas of parkland, shrubbery and indigenous hedgerow, which would “be conducive to and harmonious with the wildlife which currently inhabits the site”’.
Among the other issues raised in-
clude a recommendation on pedestria- WURS-1B COEF
“We submit that the current main road running past the Oakwood Arms Hotel and between SkyCourt Town Centre and the proposed site should be largely pedestrianised, with only very limited vehicular access, which should be subject to a very low speed restriction. This would effectively link the existing shopping area to the new development,” it stated.
Duchas na Sionna is also proposing that the proposed arts and cultural centre be located within the area of the proposed development, as it would be central to the existing housing ar- SHIDO) OFT ON ALO)OF