'Hope and optimism' prevail over redevelopment of West Gate House
Terry Hamilton, Town Regeneration Officer, Louth County Council, told Councillors the project is currently under Part 8 planning.
He explained that the works involve the refurbishment of West Gate House and the adjacent Drogheda Youth Development building.
It is a landmark in the West Gate area, he told members, and is very prominent in terms of how people access West Street.
The project is set to be funded by the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme (THRIVE), and the council heard Louth County Council expect to have an update on the funding in the coming months.
Mr. Hamilton explained the building will have four elements to it, the refurbishment of the protected structure – West Gate House, the refurbishment of the Drogheda Youth Development building, a flexible space for all users, and a new entrance block.
He told members the Part 8 has been advertised and on display in the Civic Buildings, and was opened for submissions between April and May. A public consultation was held in April, in addition to previous public consultations.
There was just one submission, and two statutory responses received. The project is proposed for approval by the Chief Executive.
Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Michelle Hall asked for a more detailed design of the project, and added that she is 'now full of hope and optimism when I look at this building.'
Cllr. Pio Smith paid tribute to the local authority for the progress made on the project to date.
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"Getting here has been tough, there has been a massive amount of work done already. I think this will make a hugely significant difference to that area of Drogheda, It fits very well in to the West Gate vision as well.'
Cllr. Declan Power welcomed the project, adding he had one query into the future of the Drogheda Youth Building, which he said has been awarded to Culture Connect.
Cllr. Kevin Callan praised the work carried out on plans for the redevelopment, saying: 'It must be one of the most difficult buildings in one of the most difficult locations. This building, when it happens, is I think going to jump start the entire redevelopment of that side of town.'
Cllr. James Byrne said: 'It will give people hope when we start seeing work happening here and in other buildings, hope that we are starting to turn a corner, and it will really give the town a lift.'
Mr. Hamilton told members it is hoped to house the community group in another building, and that Culture Connect will be invited back into Westgate House when works are complete.
Director of Service, David Jones, acknowledged the councillor's comments and said a lot of work of taken place in a bid to 'get the project over the line.'
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