A PROPOSED € 1.75 million facelift of the Ennis market has been given planning approval by members of Ennis Town Council.
The council now intends to “undertake a detailed engagement with users” of the market in Garraunakilla.
The council is proposing to develop a semi-enclosed structure on the existing car park for the purposes of a market and car-parking facilities.
The proposed 608-sqm structure would consist of two adjacent pavil- ions with a Plexiglas roof covering the central corridor.
The redevelopment would also include the upgrading or surrounding streets, lighting, drainage, street furniture and trees.
The plans also include provision for a shared surface area on Market Place from its junction with Barrack Street to its junction with the lower Drumbiggle Road.
According to a planning report presented to members of Ennis Town Council, the proposal “would narrow the existing roadway along Market Place resulting in clearer definition for all road users and provide natural traffic calming and increased pedestrian safety.”
Ennis Town Manager Gerard Dollard told the council’s February meeting a detailed consultation process would first take place.
He said most of the estimated € 1.5 million cost of the proposed redevelopment would be spent on improving facilities in the market.
The structure is expected to cost
€ 500,000. Mr Dollard said, “Our sole objective is to enhance the market. We want to strengthen the market.”
Urging councillors to adopt Mr Dollard’s recommendations, Cllr Brian Meaney (FF) said;
“This is a small step in a very long process but we need to grasp this opportunity with both hands.”
The council received submission from a number of groups and individuals including the Farmer’s Market, Rita McInerney, CEO Ennis Chamber of Commerce, and local businessmen Leo and Gearoid Mannion.
There was a broad welcome for the proposal however some concern has been expressed about the design of the proposed structure and how it would impact on the residential amenity of the area.
Archeological investigation of the site will have to be carried out prior to any development, as recommended by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and the Clare County Conservation Officer.
It is thought archaeological work could begin within the next fortnight.
Councillors approved the Manager’s Report on Garraunakilla and also a formal application for approval for a loan of € 1.75 million.