Calls have been made for a major regeneration of parts of Shannon Town.
Ahead of a public meeting on the Shannon Venue Project, concerns have been raised over the future of the town, amid claims its been decaying for years.
While one local representative claims there’s a need to start from scratch in some areas, hopes of a bright future have been expressed.
There’s an air of cautious optimism in Shannon today that steps can be taken to ensure a bright future for the town.
It comes ahead of a public meeting at the Oakwood Arms tomorrow night, which has been called amid questions over the future of the Shannon Venue project.
There was huge disappointment last year, when Government funding to deliver the shovel-ready project failed to materialise.
Since then, talks have been held which could see the Council takeover the project, and locals are continuing to push for improvements in the town centre.
Speaking on a special broadcast of Clare FM’s Morning Focus from Shannon today, Chairperson of the Board of the Shannon Venue, Derrek Barrett said he believes the town has been treated as the poor relation.
Local Sinn Féin Councillor Mike McKee says he wants the local authority to go back to the drawing board and even go as far as bulldozing parts of the town that are no longer fit for purpose
He’s lauded the Shannon Venue Project, saying the ambitious development would be a welcome addition as part of the regeneration of the town.
But the Sinn Féin Councillor is urging the committee to give the local authority time and work with the Council.
However, another Shannon representative insists the Council is waking up to Shannon’s needs.
After funding was announced for flood embankments and the Shannon Town Park, Councillor Gerry Flynn feels there is reason for positivity.
