Concerns have been raised over the removal of mature trees from Ennistymon Town Square, with locals describing it as a significant loss for the community.
The trees, which are more than twenty years old, are being removed as part of Clare County Council’s public realm works, with planter boxes incorporating birch trees included in the new design.
Residents are now calling on the local authority to pause the project and work with an ecologist to explore ways of preserving the remaining trees within the overall design.
Maeve Stone, who lives locally, says it’s a symptom of a bigger problem around how we think about urban nature.
You can listen to the full interview below.
Statement from Clare County Council
Clare County Council appreciates that any change to such a distinctive town centre will naturally generate discussion.
The public realm works are aimed at making the town safer, more accessible and more welcoming, while respecting its heritage and unique character.
The design is intended to improve pedestrian movement, create better spaces for people to meet and spend time, and encourage visitors to stay longer in Ennistymon rather than simply pass through.
This is a long-term investment in the town’s future, and while not every design decision will please everyone, the overall aim is to enhance Ennistymon as a vibrant, attractive and accessible place for residents, traders and visitors alike.
The preparation of this design was developed in consultation with the Ennistymon Town Team and Tidy Towns over a number of years.
During this process, existing trees were examined and deemed gone beyond their life use. This design was brought through a Part 8 Planning process which enabled citizens the opportunity to make submissions in relation to same.
The design allows for 6 new trees to be planted in lieu of the 4 trees being taken out. The positioning and alignment of the new trees were purposefully put in place to provide design symmetry to the Square.
The new trees have contained tree pits to allow the trees to grow, thrive and establish deep roots without interfering with existing services.
The design also includes for new planters across the works which will be biodiversity friendly.
A meeting was held on Tuesday 9th June onsite with between Clare County Council, scheme designers & Ennistymon Tidy Towns to discuss the makeup of these planters along with examining any issues around new tree locations.
It is our hope that works will keep momentum over the coming months to ensure timely completion.
