Refurbishment plans for the County Museum in Ennis have been given the seal of approval by elected representatives in the area.
Councillors were briefed on refurbishment plans for the County Museum prior to the July meeting of the Ennis Municipal District. Works will include alterations to the internal layout of the Tourist Office, the provision of a new vehicular ramp from the Friary Car Park and a change of use of the second floor to office accommodation. No submissions or observations were received for the approved development.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) asked that money be invested into creating a digital hub at the County Museum, “It is not included as a written condition but I ask that the spirit be included”. He believed that the funds set aside for an enterprise and training facility on the Gort Rd could go towards such a facility.
Establishing a digital hub in Ennis town “is absolutely essential,” Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) outlined”. She believed remote working was going to play a crucial role into the future in a blended working model.
Director of Service, Carmel Kirby admitted, “COVID-19 has accelerated the need for digital hubs across the county certainly in Ennis Town”. She told the meeting that a final location for the Ennis digital hub had yet to be decided.
Proximity to Ennis Town is vital for the facility, Cllr Flynn stressed. “There has been talk of a hub in Ballymaley, I don’t think that would achieve what we want,” he stated and referred to the importance of cafes and shops in the heart of the town benefiting from the hub. “A number of options are being discussed,” Kirby responded.
