Plans For Blake’s Corner Up For Discussion Today

Photo © Clare FM

Clare County Councillors will discuss the local authority’s plans for Blake’s Corner in Ennistymon today.

The Council is seeking the go-ahead to carry out the multi-million euro project, in spite of concerns from some in the North Clare town.

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This project aims to resolve long-standing traffic issues at Blake’s Corner, but the Council’s proposal itself has not been without controversy.

It involves constructing a new Bridge over the River Inagh, the pedestrianisation of the existing bridge, a new roundabout, and also the demolition of three existing properties.

The listed but derelict Blake’s and Linnane’s buildings would be left untouched.

Ahead of their discussion of the project today, a 40-page report has been prepared for Councillors, outlining the submissions that have been made to this point.

This includes 18 formal submissions from members of the public, mostly from locals who oppose the project.

Their concern include costs, which is unspecified in the report but described as “outlandish” by one man, as well as the plan to demolish properties, and whether the works will actually ease traffic pressures at all.

Some of those set to lose their properties are among those who have made submissions, including John and Sheena Clancy of West Clare Flowers, who say it would have the effect of rendering them homeless.

Clare County Council says those directly affected will be compensated, as is the norm in such circumstances, and it also describes its plans as the best available option within available resources.

It’s recommending that their plans be passed when Councillors discuss the matter at their monthly meeting later today. They’ll have the option to pass or reject the plans, or to defer any decision.