Established artist wanted to paint proposed mural in prominent spot Tullamore

The Chair of Tullamore Tidy Towns said he is disappointed that a proposed mural for Bury Quay in Tullamore has been put on hold by Offaly County Council.

In its assessment the local authority said the location for the mural is in an extremely prominent site. ''It is therefore considered that a development of the highest visual standard is required.''

Chair of the Tidy Towns, Councillor Shane Murray said the council want a well known artist to paint the mural with the potential to attract media attention.

''We had a meeting with planners. We hope to try to push it forward. We will try to get the mural done maybe in a different style or design. It's important not to drop the ball on this. We have the full support of the council. They want a named artist but that could end up costing €10,000 and we don't have that money.''

Cllr Murray said there may be a bit of money available from the council. ''I think it's important we get it done.''

The council said that ''while the design of the proposal has considerable merit it is the view of the Planning Authority that it does not meet the high standard required of the site. The Planning Authority considers that the proposed mural is visually cluttered with numerous subjects which will detract the eye from the existing vista and architecture located along Columcille Street."

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