A Clarecastle businessman claims his business has suffered losses of almost 80% since the closure of Latoon bridge.
The bridge, which is located on the main artery into the village, has been closed since November to facilitate emergency safety works.
In an open letter, Paul Walsh insists it’s led to the death of the area.
Clarecastle RIP.
That’s the message from one trader in Clarecastle who’s blamed the closure of Latoon Bridge on the massive losses he says businesses have been experiencing since before Christmas.
The bridge has been closed for six months to facilitate emergency repairs after structural concerns were uncovered, but Paul Walsh is part of a group who are criticising the Council for how it has handled they matter.
They say the Council should have carried out an economic assessment, and that they didn’t adequately consult with the public before the project.
He says it’s hitting businesses’ bottom lines.
There are concerns now that with part of the passing trade lost, it will be very difficult to regain those customers once the bridge re-opens, as well as other local services.
Since November, Bus Eireann’s Expressway Service on the Galway-Ennis-Limerick-Cork route has stopped serving Clarecastle, although another hourly service still stops in Clarecastle.
Local Fine Gael Councillor Paul Murphy has sympathised with local businesses that have suffered on account of the works, saying the situation could “possibly” have been handled better.
But he’s reiterated that the works were unavoidable and is urging locals to remain positive.
He hopes an upcoming advertising campaign for Clarecastle will help inject life back into the village.
