Council in search of new library site

PLANS for a new library in the town are once again on the agenda, with Clare County Council seeking expressions of interest from the public in identifying a site.
It is proposed that the site, or existing completed building, be used for the redevelopment of the main public library and headquarters for Clare Library Service in Ennis.
The present library service in Ennis consists of a public library, local studies centre and library headquarters, dispersed across three separate sites at Harmony Row and Mill Road.
“The intention is to locate all three services in a new, single location greenfield or brownfield site in the centre of Ennis. The existing locations will be vacated and may be offered as part of the terms of any agreement,” said a spokesperson for the council.
A site of 1,600 to 1,800m2 is required or alternatively an existing building with a floor area of up to 4,000m2. “Proximity to the centre of Ennis and the network of schools is essential as is proximity to public parking. Frontage to a main road/street is also a prerequisite. Sites existing completed buildings within a half-mile radius of the centre of Ennis will be viewed favourably.”
Expressions of interest with details of ownership of identified properties should be submitted to Helen Walsh, County Librarian, Library HQ, Mill Road, Ennis, County Clare by 4pm, Monday.