Landscape works at roundabout

LANDSCAPE works are currently in progress at Ballycasey Roundabout and at the library forecourt while several more local improvements are planned for the coming months.

 

Earlier this year, guided by the Tidy Towns ­adjudication report for last year and local consultation, a special action plan was developed ­involving the local Tidy Towns ­Committee, the Town ­Council and Clare County Council in conjunction with various community groups and stakeholders.

Some of the actions have already been completed such as the new path out to the first point on the estuary walk and upgrade to the footpath in the wetlands area.

The works were undertaken by Shannon area offices under the guidance of council engineers, Eugene O’Shea and Paddy O’Rourke.

Stone beds were constructed at the Shannon Town roundabout and the Ballycasey approach by Ryan Stoneworks and two specially commissioned signs sculpted by Michael McTigue will be installed in these locations.

Earlier in the year, ­additional native trees were planted around the Shannon area. At present, landscape works are in progress at Ballycasey roundabout and at the library forecourt.

The roundabout works involve the creation of a Celtic motif design using recycled paving material and new planting while the library works involve repairs to broken paving on the approach footpath and around seating, which is owned by the council.

It is expected work on both the library and roundabout will be finished this month. Mayor Michael Fleming said the scheme is important for the town. “This project demonstrates the passion and commitment of the residents of Shannon Town to contribute to the upkeep and appearance of their town and the ongoing support of the town council.

“This year, through the ­action plan, special efforts were made to develop further partnerships between the council, community groups, local businesses and stakeholders.

This can only serve to ­preserve and enhance the works to date and build on the great community spirit and uniqueness of Shannon Town.”

Town and County Councillor Gerry Flynn also welcomed the improvements. “Those are works that Shannon Town Council allocated funding towards.

“What money we’re spending will be well spent because the stonework that Michael McTigue has done is absolutely fantastic.

“We’ve been asking for years for the tall shrubs to be removed from the ­roundabout at Ballycasey, because there was a health and safety issue with visibility at a very busy roundabout.

“We’re delighted to see that work going on and I’m hopeful there will be a few more parking spaces at the library. I’m not sure whether we will or not but I hope that we will.”

He also commented that elected ­members from the ­Shannon area will meet on September 3 to address further ­submissions from the public on the 2012-2018 Shannon Town and Environs Local Area Plan.