Calls are being made for Shannon Commercial Properties to relinquish ownership of a site earmarked for a community centre in the town to Clare County Council.
A 99-year lease for the site, previously held by the directors of the Shannon Venue project, has been transferred to the local authority to allow them to build the One Shannon Hub.
In 2004, discussion around developing a community centre in Shannon first began, however the council failed to acquire a key site.
Fast-forward to 2012 and a voluntary group set about developing a facility in the town called the Shannon Venue and the directors entered into a 99-year lease of a central location from Shannon Commercial Properties.
However, the plans eventually had to be shelved due to a funding shortfall.
This week, the group confirmed that they had transferred the lease to Clare County Council to allow them to build the One Shannon Hub – a civic and community centre designed as part of the Shannon Masterplan.
However, local Independent Councillor Gerry Flynn is concerned that the local authority don’t have ownership of the site.
The Shannon Councillor is also fearful that targets contained within the contract to complete the hub by 2027 are unrealistic.
The Chair of the Shannon Municipal District has dismissed the suggestion that issues could arise from the site being leased rather than purchased by the council.
Independent Councillor Michael Begley insists many businesses across the country are operating under a lease agreement.
Councillor Begley believes the fact the site is now under the control of the local authority is a positive step forward.
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Clare County Council says ‘the leasehold interest is completely sufficient’ for it to carry out this development and that it ‘will have a real and positive impact on Shannon Town’.
Chair of the Shannon Venue, Derek Barrett believes it can be achieved within the timeframe.
