Health benefits worth €7m from Post Office Field boardwalk

THE proposed development of Ennis’ Post Office Field could result in health benefits to the county capital worth an estimated €7 million over the next 30 years an analysis undertaken on behalf of Ennis 2040 has found.
Meanwhile an environmental consultant guiding the plans has insisted the planned boardwalk can bring people into the town centre habitat “while preserving its integrity” with “minimal disruption” to the site.
A Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) undertaken by AECOM for the Ennis 2040 DAC assessed the impact of Active Travel Benefits of the proposed elevated boardwalk over the Post Office Field. Other findings included the project would result in €2.2m journey times savings to and from the north and south of the River Fergus over the next three decades.
Public consultation on the plans is continuing with Ennis 2040 saying they are committed to a ‘Building with Nature’ approach ensuring sustainable and environmentally friendly construction practices.
Clare County Council, in collaboration with Ennis 2040 DAC, recently hosted two public drop-in events as part of the consultation process for the proposed development. The consultation process continues until May 9 to give everyone a chance to review the plans for the proposed development and to have their say.
The plans will be on display in the reception area of Clare County Council Offices until this Friday, May 3.  The plans are also available to view online 24/7 on Clare County Councils Have Your Say Portal until May 9.
According to Ennis 2040 the focal point of the proposed development will be an elevated boardwalk designed around river biodiversity, habitat preservation, and wildlife conservation.
“This innovative boardwalk will not only offer connectivity but also provide new views of Ennis’ historic heritage, creating a vibrant new destination for social interaction at the heart of the town,” said a spokesperson for the Ennis 2040 DAC.
Ian Douglas, the environmental consultant guiding the concept proposals said, “This project provides a fantastic opportunity to promote a deeper connection with nature. By carefully designing the elevated boardwalk, we can bring people into Post Office Field while preserving its integrity and creating new biodiversity habitats.
“The project’s minimal footprint and raised boardwalk ensure minimal disruption to the site below. Through thorough surveys on bats, habitats, flora, and mammals, we’ve ensured that the development can proceed in phases with the utmost care and minimal impact.”
Ennis 2040 say that as well as an estimated €7 million in health benefits, other anticipated benefits of the proposed development will include promotion of biodiversity and habitat creation in Ennis Town Centre; increased pedestrian connectivity throughout Ennis Town Centre; and showcasing the River Fergus and facilitating access to natural spaces.
Opportunities for recreational activities and promoting health and well-being through nature immersion are also envisaged. As well as opportunities for environmental education and the establishment of a performance and public events space on the terrace area.
Feedback from attendees during the drop-in events, as well as submissions through Clare County Council’s Have Your Say portal, will be compiled into a “comprehensive report” the DAC have said.
“This valuable input will be carefully considered by the design team to refine the final plans, ensuring that community perspectives are integral to the development process.
“The Post Office Field development aligns with the Ennis 2040 Economic and Spatial Strategy and is integrated into the County Development Plan 2023-2029. These strategic initiatives aim to enhance Ennis as a desirable place to live, work, visit, and invest.”