PLANNED DEVELOPMENTS on car parks in Abbey Street and Harvey’s Quay as part of the Ennis 2040 strategy have been paused.
At a behind closed doors briefing between members of Ennis 2040 DAC and elected representatives of the Ennis Municipal District on Tuesday evening, it was revealed that the planned developments in both Abbey Street and Harvey’s Quay (Parnell Street) have been paused.
Both developments were among the initial nine transformational projects in the economic and spatial strategy. They were the subject of much public criticism including a silent march and the compiling of a petition with 3,700 signatures.
Plans for the Post Office Field have not been paused but will undergo a review, the briefing heard. Acting COO of Ennis 2040 DAC, Padraic McElwee outlined, “The proposed boardwalk and amenities at Post Office Field will be further reviewed at the request of the members. The development, which will connect Bank Place with Harvey’s Quay, includes an amphitheatre-style public space along Bindon Street with outdoor seating and direct access to the boardwalk”.
Discussions have recommenced with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage plus The Housing Agency on options for the Francis Street following the withdrawal of a judicial review.
On the decision to pause both the Abbey Street and Harvey’s Quay plans, McElwee stated, “The priority focus is on developing Ennis and Clare by enhancing our retail and SME offering, delivering homes and broadening our short-term accommodation availability”.
Ashfield House has been acquired by Ennis 2040 DAC, he said they are in the process of securing more strategic sites in the county town. “Given the high demand for accommodation and particularly tourism related accommodation in the town currently, we are considering various options for this key property and its curtilage. The details of the other properties currently being considered are commercially sensitive for now, but we are confident these acquisitions will be welcomed and will greatly benefit Ennis,” he said.
“Ennis 2040 DAC as a wholly owned subsidiary of Clare County Council is committed to ensuring Ennis strengthens its role as a key regional economic driver for Clare and our county town. As a resident of Ennis, I am proud to lead the Ennis 2040 team on achieving our shared ambitions for Ennis and Clare,” Padraic concluded.
