Craft units for walled garden?

THE possibility of the Vandeleur Walled Garden in Kilrush Wood having small enterprise units put in place is being pursued by Kilrush Town Council. This month’s meeting of the town council confirmed the walled garden will host a craft display this summer. Town clerk John Corry also said the town council is examining the possibility of establishing craft units in the walled gardens.
The idea was mooted by Councillor Tom Prendeville, who asked the meeting to invite the Clare Craftworkers Association to stage an exhibition at the gardens this year, as it is the Year of Craft.
“This council, in association with the West Clare Task Force, has identified job creation opportunities in this area,” Councillor Prendeville said.
“The creation of a craft enterprise village within the Vandeleur Walled Garden has employment potential,” Councillor Prendeville suggested.
“Similar enterprises in Spiddal and Kilkenny have been outstanding successes. Staging an exhibition of the best craft products in Clare would be a first step in realising that potential. Maybe it could be held during the summer or maybe in late autumn. We could contact the Clare Craftworkers Association for their views on the matter,” the Cappa councillor added.
In replay, Mr Corry said plans are in place to use the Vandeleur Walled Garden for a craft exhibition.
“I am delighted to confirm that arrangements are already being made to host a craft display in the gardens during the summer,” he said.
“It is hoped to use this display to gauge possible interest from members of the Clare Craftworkers Association to work from small craft units at the Vandeleur Walled Gardens. Investigations are presently taking place to determine the feasibility and cost of providing such units,” the town clerk added.
“We have also approached the Clare Local Development Company regarding possible funding for such a proposal and they have indicated that they may look favourably on an application for funding,” Mr Corry revealed.