Last week of public consultation for Ennis Post Office Field plans
Plans for 'nature-led' development are on display until Friday May 3
Clare County Council, in collaboration with Ennis 2040 DAC, recently hosted two public drop-in events as part of the consultation process for the proposed development at Post Office Field.
The consultation process continues until next Thursday, May 9 to give everyone a chance to review the plans for the proposed development and to have their say.
The plans will be on display in the reception area of Clare County Council Offices until Friday May 3, and are also available to view online 24/7 on Clare County Councils Have Your Say Portal until May 9.
The focal point of the proposed development is an elevated boardwalk designed around river biodiversity, habitat preservation, and wildlife conservation.
This innovative boardwalk will not only offer connectivity but also provide new views of Ennis' historic heritage, creating a vibrant new destination for social interaction at the heart of the town.
The Post Office Field development project is committed to a 'Building with Nature' approach, ensuring sustainable and environmentally friendly construction practices.
Ian Douglas, the environmental consultant guiding the concept proposals said, "This project provides a fantastic opportunity to promote a deeper connection with nature. By carefully designing the elevated boardwalk, we can bring people into Post Office Field while preserving its integrity and creating new biodiversity habitats."
"The project's minimal footprint and raised boardwalk ensure minimal disruption to the site below. Through thorough surveys on bats, habitats, flora, and mammals, we've ensured that the development can proceed in phases with the utmost care and minimal impact."
As well as an estimated €7M in health benefits*, other anticipated benefits of the proposed development include:
- Promotion of biodiversity and habitat creation in Ennis Town Centre.
- Increased pedestrian connectivity throughout Ennis Town Centre.
- Showcasing the River Fergus and facilitating access to natural spaces.
- Opportunities for recreational activities and promoting health and well-being through nature immersion.
- Opportunities for environmental education.
- Establishment of a performance and public events space on the terrace area.
Feedback from attendees during the drop-in events, as well as submissions through Clare County Council's Have Your Say portal, will be compiled into a comprehensive report. This valuable input will be carefully considered by the design team to refine the final plans, ensuring that community perspectives are integral to the development process.
The Post Office Field development aligns with the Ennis 2040 Economic and Spatial Strategy and is integrated into the County Development Plan 2023-2029. These strategic initiatives aim to enhance Ennis as a desirable place to live, work, visit, and invest.
Further information is available at www.ennis2040.ie.