Connaught Street group to hold public meeting
A “Save our Street” public meeting to discuss the future of the Connaught Street area will be held by Connaught Street and Environs Regeneration Group tomorrow (Thursday). This meeting will take place in the Shamrock Lodge at 7.30pm, and everyone is welcome and encouraged to join.
Vice-Chairman of the Connaught Street and Environs Regeneration Group Tim Dowling has said that they “want to include absolutely everyone, since its everybody's street. Come along to see the passion, commitment, and talent. See what we're about.”
The Regeneration Group was formed this summer, with the aim of giving the west side of town a voice, and with the goal of working with councillors, local businesses, and residents to breathe life back into a part of town that is “teeming with heritage.”
Whilst the group welcomes new development ideas from Westmeath County Council, they are conscious of protecting and preserving the heritage of Connaught Street.
Tim explained: “Connaught Street is part of an architectural conservation area. Some of the buildings on this street are 150, even 200 years old. It's seeped in heritage.”
The goal of the meeting on August 17 will be to open up discussion on the future of this area of town. The Regeneration Group already has a strong idea of what they would like to see happen with the west side of town, with emphasis on protecting its history, and finding a balance between new developments and respect for its heritage.
“Connaught Street has a dual function,” Tim explained. “A lot of units on this street are a mix of retail and residential, with living areas above the shop.”
“All of the buildings on Connaught Street are unique, organic developments. It is an Irish vernacular style of development – very, very old, and very, very unique to Irish towns. The preservation of this dual function is key for the success of the street long-term.”
“These units need to be made attractive to small businesses below and as well to first time buyers living above. And we need to think of social housing as well. This country is in the midst of the worst housing crisis we've ever seen, and we must be aware of our social responsibility.”
The Regeneration Group has seen a lot of positive feedback from local residents and businesses, and are hoping for a good turnout on Thursday August 17 so that everyone can have their voice heard on the future of this iconic street.