ENNIS 2040 Designated Activity Company has announced the appointment of a collaborative design team to develop a Master Plan for a “much-needed high-quality mixed-use sustainable development” for Francis Street in Ennis’ Town Centre. This will be managed under an agreed Service Level Agreement with Clare County Council.

Vincent Hannon Architects (VHA) in collaboration with Cundall Consulting Engineers and Ian Douglas Environmental Consultants have been successful in the tender process to prepare the Master Plan for the site. According to Ennis 2040 DAC the development has the potential to include up to 45 housing units, aiming to “redefine urban community while embracing sustainability and modern design principles in line with the ambitions set out in the approved Ennis 2040 Economic & Spatial Strategy”.

Master planning will commence immediately with the aim of launching a comprehensive public consultation process in four to five months’ time to give the public an opportunity to view and comment on the proposed designs.  Subject to a successful planning application, it is anticipated the project will be completed by early 2026.

Mayor of Ennis, Councillor Clare Colleran Molloy, said, “The appointment of the design team represents a significant step towards realizing the town’s vision for a sustainable and vibrant future. The development has the capacity to meet the growing demand for quality housing while setting a new benchmark for sustainable multigenerational living in Ennis.  Our County Development Plan 2023 – 2029 sets ambitious targets for badly needed housing over the coming years with an identified need for 1,550 units in Ennis over this period.”