Public meeting important for future evolution of Tullamore

The public meeting organised by Tullamore and District Chamber of Commerce on the future of the town centre has been described as an important event in the evolution of Tullamore.

Retired architect and town planner, Fergal MacCabe, who is a regular commentator on development issues in relation to the county town, said the positive and constructive tone of the meeting was notable.

In a letter to the editor, Mr MacCabe writes:

Dear Editor,

Having just read the account in the Tribune of last week's Tullamore Chamber of commerce organised public meeting meeting I would like to congratulate the Chamber and its President Caroline Collins-Murphy on an occasion which I believe will in years to come be seen as an important event in the evolution of Tullamore. Its attendance and positive and constructive tone was notable.

I was particularly impressed by Myles Shortall's MOR strategy which can bring a methodical and structured approach to future initiatives and Dominic Doheny's proposal to appoint a County Development Officer who can identify and direct funding into strategic projects.

I was heartened to learn that the production of a Local Area Plan is in progress. I believe that will be the most important step in pulling all the various strands together and setting a new vision for Tullamore in the next ten years.

Great emphasis was placed on the key role which the redevelopment of the Harbour will play. Having been involved with the Dublin Docklands Masterplan and having had a long association with the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Authority I am very aware of the problems and opportunities such ambitious redevelopment schemes bring.

I agree with the proposal therefore that the early days should see the reuse of existing structures but would stress that this should be accompanied by the provision of a real and visible public amenity, however small, which would give access to the waterside..

Best wishes,

Fergal MacCabe,

Sandcove,

Co. Dublin