This article is from page 16 of the 2013-12-10 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 16 JPG
PLANS to redevelop a large area of Ennis’s historic market area have gone out for public consultation.
Ennis Town Council is inviting submissions and observations from members of the public for the proposed development, which would involve the building of semi-enclosed spaces in Garraunakilla. Details of the planed facelift to the Market are contained in a report to members of Ennis Town Council. “The structure will continue to have multifunctional uses, housing at times a car park and at others, a market. The structure consists of two adjacent pavilions with a plexi-glass roof covering the central corridor”
In his report Town Clerk Leonard Cleary states, “The spaces adjacent the structure and in the surround- ing streets will be remodeled and upgraded to improve the pedestrian environment with new paving, lighting, drainage and street furniture and trees. This work will extend from the junction of Market Place with Barrack Street, to the junction of Market Place with Lower Drumbiggle Road; lower Drumbiggle Road from it’s junction with Market Place to its junction with Garraunakilla; Garraunkilla from it’s junction with Market Place to Lower Drumbiggle Road. This work will involve providing a shared surface area on Market Place from its junction with Barrack Street to its junction with Lower Drumbiggle Road.”
Richard Rice of Healy Partners Architects was commissioned by the Council to explore the possibility of developing covered markets in Ennis.
His report strongly recommended the northern elevation of Garraunakilla develop appropriate retail activity. It also recommended the inclusion of a covered area and a kiosk if Garraunakilla is retained as a Farmer’s Market.
The report on proposed changes to the market area of Ennis recommended major improvements to access and the appearance of the town’s main market trading area.
The Council has set a June 2014 deadline for work to start in Garraunakilla and Barrack Street. Submissions on the Garraunakilla development can be made up to and including Monday, January 6.