Have your say on the future of lands in Offaly town via online survey and public consultation event

OFFALY County Council is pleased to announce the further development of a Concept Master Plan for Birr Rectory Lands and warmly invites members of the public to have their say on this exciting project.

“This site is uniquely positioned in the heart of the town and presents an important opportunity for local amenities and future high-quality development,” said Cathaoirleach of Birr Municipal District, Cllr John Clendennen. “I encourage everyone in Birr to take time to view the draft plans and to let us know their views and further ideas so that these can be incorporated.”

The project began in 2022 with a first consultation with the public to gather their thoughts on the possibilities for the site. Since then, the consultancy team, led by Landscape Architects and Urban Designers at The Paul Hogarth Company, have worked with Offaly County Council and Birr Municipal District Members to develop an innovative concept.

The large greenfield site is in the town centre and is found near key heritage assets such as John’s Hall, John’s Mall and St Brendan’s Church. The Concept Plan includes short to medium term proposals for public access and a longer-term plan for more comprehensive development subject to funding and planning consent.

The next step is to begin this second public consultation to invite public feedback on the draft. “We really want to test these emerging ideas with local people, so that we can create a Concept Master Plan that reflects Birr and makes the most of this opportunity for the town” said James Hennessey, Director with The Paul Hogarth Company.

The three-week public consultation process will open from Friday July 21st until Friday August 11th 2023. During this time, the draft plan will be available for viewing at Birr Civic Offices and via Offaly County Council’s website.

Have your say and complete the online survey via https://awqaw573pjr.typeform.com/birr-draft-plan . The consultation period will also feature a drop-in event on Wednesday July 26th between 4-7pm at John’s Hall where the public will have the chance to discuss the draft plan and give their feedback for the development of the final Concept Master Plan.

All ideas for the development of the rectory lands are encouraged and welcomed. Once the Concept Plan has been completed and funding secured, work will begin on detailed design and planning processes, when further engagement with stakeholders and the public will take place.