*Photograph: Martin Connolly
A compulsory purchase order for Blake’s Corner is to be published in the very near future.
Head of Finance with Clare County Council, Noeleen Fitzgerald informed the June meeting of the local authority that a compulsory purchase order (CPO) for Blake’s Corner is to be published. The CPO will appear in the planning notices of either local or national newspapers.
Two years ago, the County Council was granted planning permission for works with an estimated cost of €7m which intend to improve access to Ennistymon, the construction of a new bridge over the Inagh River and pedestrianising Michael Conway bridge which is currently listed as a protected structure.
It is expected that the CPO will detail the Council’s intention to purchase properties close to the notorious traffic hub. Two former shops, Blake’s and Linnane’s which date back to the 19th century are to be preserved as part of the upgrade. Unlike the two listed buildings, two other buildings on the western side of the river are to be demolished and the local authority will issue CPOs for both structures.
No elected member of the County Council made comment following on from Ms Fitzgerald’s announcement at the June meeting.
Blake’s Corner has been a source of frustration for decades with the traffic congestion at the location leading to regular tailbacks during the height of the tourist season as motorists make their way to Lahinch and the Cliffs of Moher.
