Latest news with #TownandVillageRenewalScheme
Irish Independent
2 days ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Fields at foot of Rock of Cashel to be transformed into new town park
Phase one of construction is due to begin by the latter end of the summer, which will see a contractor fully on site, and works are expected to take several months. The Cashel Town Park will feature gravel walkway, a scenic boardwalk, reinforced grass paths, natural play elements, sensitive landscaping, seating and signage, a low level maze and an amphitheatre. At the sod turning were elected members of Tipperary-Cahir-Cashel municipal district, Bru Ború, Cashel Heritage and Development Trust, local gardaí, the OPW, chief executive of Tipperary County Council Sinéad Carr, directors of services Brian Beck and Dave Carroll, district officials, project manager and engineer Frank Cussen, while Muintir Na Tire was represented by National President, Jackie Meally. Cashel resident Cllr Burgess told the Irish Independent that the new park is a transformative project for the heritage town and one that has been on his agenda for the past few years ever since he was elected to the council. 'I was delighted back in 2020 in proposing the Part 8 process planning permission to drive this project forward. Last year, we secured €495,000 in additional funding under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme to support this important work. 'We are going to deliver a low-level maze for recreation for kids to play in. We are going to have some organic play material, a new boardwalk improving accessibility in the site. 'But today, in marking the turning of the sod, acknowledges the journey we've been on as a local authority in securing the lands, in driving the new enhancement of the Bishop's Walk, the Bóthar na Marbh, and the Town Wall Walkway at the back of the courthouse. 'All three elements have been delivered already. This main starting point is going to be enjoyed by not just locals, but also visitors. Being under the shadow of the Rock, where hundreds of thousands of visitors are attending every year – the town has always missed that bridge, that connectivity between the Rock and the town centre.' Cllr Burgess said the enhanced town park will act as that bridge. 'It's going to be really transformative for outdoor space in the town. This is a really exciting journey that we're on and I'm delighted as cathaoirleach to be officially turning the sod today.' Cllr Burgess thanked all the council officials who worked on the project over the years, procuring the design, securing planning permission and authorisations from many agencies such as the National Monument Service, the OPW, and the Department of Heritage. ADVERTISEMENT Learn more 'It's quite a sensitive site,' said Cllr Burgess. 'I think that brings a unique aspect to our Town Park that no other town park has. This is going to be something exceptional and it's going to have that outdoor amenity that the town has missed for many years.' The new boardwalk will take some time to install, said Cllr Burgess. 'That accessibility element of the Town Park is really important.' There were many in Cashel who felt the Town Park would never get started, but it is, and when people see the end result, people will appreciate the outdoor space to bring their children, walk their dogs, and enjoy picnics, said Cllr Burgess. The entire project will deliver a new entrance to the Rock of Cashel site on the Camus Road side, at the existing gate. There will be new walkways, and a new amphitheatre which will be of huge benefit to the community. 'I can see the brass band practising there,' said Cllr Burgess. 'I can see Cashel Arts Festival utilising the space in the future, maybe some Irish dancing. It's going to be space for shows and that space for really notable experiences.' Phase one should be completed before Christmas, and, depending on funding, it's hoped that this time next, work will have moved on to phase two. Both phases will be opened separately. The three elements of Bóthar na Marbh, the Bishop's Walk, and the Town Wall Walkway are the three components of the project, with phase one leading from the top gate leading into the Bishop's Walk, down towards the Palace. 'That's going to be delivered in the coming months. That will be open to the public, and that side of the development is really geared towards families. It will be a really welcome addition to the town. 'The design concept respects the sensitivities of the site. It respects the heritage of our town and also provides that unique offering to visitors and locals so I'm really looking forward to it,' added Cllr Burgess.
Irish Independent
17-06-2025
- Irish Independent
'Habitual vandalism' threatening to spoil €1m project in New Ross town centre
Despite funding of almost €1m going towards its rejuvenation Brennan's Lane in New Ross continues to be a centre for anti-social behaviour and vandalism. Commencing in 2024, the laneway underwent a comprehensive refurbishment to enhance safety, accessibility, and vibrancy. The project was funded by a €500,000 grant from the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and was further supported by match funding from Wexford County Council, with the backing of the elected members, bringing the total investment to €891,000. However, at the June meeting of the New Ross Municipal District (NRMD) Councillor Michael Sheehan said there were some who cared little for the new facilities. 'I want to condemn the anti-social behaviour and vandalism at Brennan's Lane, this has become a habitual issue now,' he said. 'The neighbouring businesses have to go down and take the plants off the roof every evening, because they've been ripped out of it several times. Having spent the amount of money that we did there this is disgraceful behaviour.' Cllr Sheehan received support from Cllr John Fleming who urged the district office to ensure the area was kept in good condition.
Irish Independent
08-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Transformative Wexford project will help showcase New Ross in all its glory
The Brennan's Lane project began with detailed planning, design, and community consultation. Works commenced in 2024, with the laneway undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment to enhance safety, accessibility, and vibrancy. The project, executed by contractor MJS Civil Engineering with design and construction management from consultants Avanti Architects, has turned Brennan's Lane into a welcoming space that celebrates New Ross' heritage and supports local businesses and residents. Funded by a €500,000 grant from the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Brennan's Lane refurbishment project was further supported by match funding from Wexford County Council, with the backing of the elected members, bringing the total investment to €891,000. The official opening was performed by Minister Dara Calleary, joined by Councillor Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Councillor Bridín Murphy, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, Elected Members of Wexford County Council, Oireachtas members from Wexford, and invited guests. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts that have brought this vision to life. Speaking about the Brennan's Lane project, Minister Calleary said: 'I would like to commend the of members of Wexford County Council, both official and elected members, for their dedication in bringing this important project to completion. Significant work and engagement took place between the local community, New Ross Chamber of Commerce and the local authority to enable the delivery of this project. The connection between local authorities and communities is crucial for the development of projects that address the genuine needs of our towns and villages. This helps to maximise value for money from the investment of public funds. My commitment to support and develop rural towns and villages is underpinned by the objective of Our Rural Future, the Government's policy for rural development, and aims to create the conditions to make rural communities in Ireland more attractive to live, work and participate in.' Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, said: 'It is with great pride that I stand here at the official opening of Brennan's Lane, a project delivered under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. This revitalised laneway is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and community spirit, and it marks another significant step in enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of New Ross town.' Cllr Bridín Murphy, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, said: 'This marks a significant milestone for New Ross, as we celebrate the completion of this refurbishment under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. Brennan's Lane, once a modest thoroughfare, has been transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space that reflects our ambition for the future of the town.' Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, stated 'The refurbishment of Brennan's Lane is the latest investment in the public realm of New Ross, and is another significant step forward in the regeneration of the town centre.' Deputy Chief Executive of Wexford County Council and Director of Services, Eamonn Hore, remarked: 'This project showcases Wexford County Council's dedication to enhancing our communities, fostering pride, and supporting local vitality. The refurbishment of Brennan's Lane has transformed it into a safer, more accessible, and vibrant space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.' Alan Fitzhenry, District Manager of New Ross Municipal District said: 'I am delighted to see this excellent project opening for the people of New Ross to enjoy. The Brennan's Lane rejuvenation project has seen a serious team effort from everyone at New Ross Municipal District, working closely with the consultant and contractor, along with local businesses and tradespeople. I would like to sincerely thank everyone involved for their tireless work on this project and we look forward to seeing this space come to life.' The refurbishment of Brennan's Lane aims to create a safer, more accessible thoroughfare, enhancing connectivity within the town and providing a space for residents, visitors, and businesses to thrive. This milestone underscores Wexford County Council's dedication to investing in the future of New Ross under the Government's rural development policy, Our Rural Future. Currently in the pipeline for New Ross is the construction of a skate park in Rosbercon, the development of a Norman Visitor Centre on the Quay, the pedestrianisation of Quay Street, and the provision of a Motor Home Park. These interventions will unlock the potential of New Ross town and help it grow and prosper as a major tourist destination town.
