Wheels In Motion For Revamp Of Parnell Street In Ennis

Photo (c) Clare FM

A major redevelopment of Parnell Street in Ennis is to get underway in the New Year.

The €3.3 million project aims to inject a new lease of life into what has historically been one of the busiest streets in the county town and marks the beginning of a major revamp of Ennis town centre.

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In recent years, a number of studies have been carried out with a view to rejuvenating Parnell Street in Ennis.

Now, this has culminated with a €3.3 million project, which is set to get underway in January with works running until November of next year.

The plans include an entire re-surfacing of the street in natural stone materials; the installation of street furniture and the upgrading of the public realm of the historic laneways off of the street.

Ennis Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat Daly, who was grew up on Parnell Street, says it’s an exciting time but he also wants to see action taken to address the level of commercial vacancies on the street.

The Parnell Street Traders Association has long campaigned for something to be done to give the streetscape a boost.

Secretary of the Association Noreen Twomey Walsh of Twomey Walsh Household Linens says those working on the street are very optimistic about their futures, thanks to the new plans.

However, with Irish Water to carry out works there next month ahead of the project starting in January, she says they’re concerned about the timing.

The works mark the beginning of a major redevelopment of Ennis town centre, which will move next to O’Connell Square, High Street, Barrack Square and Old Barrack Street.

A Part 8 planning application is to be lodged in the new year for that phase; while public consultation evenings on the plans will be held in September 24th and 25th.