The Clare Champion Clare news, sport, entertainment and local notes
PEOPLE people are being invited to have their say in shaping Ennis’ future. Members of the public throughout the county are being invited to play their part in the formulation of the new Ennis and Environs Development Plan 2014 – 2020.
According to council officials, the public’s input in the document is “vitally important” in planning for the continued growth and development of the county capital and its surrounding areas.
The new plan, a draft of which is due to be completed by the end of 2013, will guide the development of Ennis and its environs in terms of economic, recreational and community requirements, as well as residential, retail, transport and infrastructural needs.
Ennis Town Council and Clare County Council will hold a public consultation event in relation to the proposed blueprint at Dunnes Stores Mall from Wednesday to Friday of next week.
Council planning officials will be on hand to hear views in relation to what the new blueprint should contain, while the public may also pick up an ‘issues booklet’ outlining the purpose of the six-year plan and the main issues it must deal with.
“The development plan will seek to guide and facilitate the future growth and economic and social development of Ennis. Therefore, it is vitally important that the council receives the input from all sectors of the community,” explained Gordon Daly, senior planner, Clare County Council.
He added, “The overarching aim of the new plan will be to continue to grow in a well-planned and sustainable way, providing a quality living environment for those who reside and work in the town and an enjoyable experience for those visiting it. The council intend that the new plan will also be informed by the findings of the recent Ennis 2020: Planning Beyond Recession project, which undertook significant public consultation in 2012.”
“This first stage of the consultation process focuses on the “bigger picture” issues facing Ennis and as such, the council would encourage all interested individuals and groups to participate,” concluded Mr Daly.
Submissions and observations relating to the revised plan for development in Ennis and its environs over the next six years are being invited. The closing date for receipt of submissions is 4pm on Friday, February 15. All details regarding making a submission can be found in the issues booklet, on www.clarecoco.ie and www.ennistowncouncil.ie.
The upcoming public information events in relation to the plan will take place at Dunnes Stores Mall next Wednesday (1pm to 5.30 pm), Thursday (from 1pm to 7.30pm) and Friday (from 1pm to 5.30pm).
