'Drive it on': Frustration over renovation of ‘iconic’ building in Limerick town
Mayor John Moran has allocated funding to carry out urgent works at Daly’s building in Abbeyfeale
LIMERICK CITY and County Council says it is working hard to carry out urgent works at the ‘iconic’ Daly's building in Abbeyfeale.
However, as it is a protected structure in an architectural conservation area, specialists must be consulted in advance of any works taking place.
The project is currently in the initial stages and a tender process started in July of this year.
Cathaoirleach Liam Galvin, who has championed the project thus far, moved a motion at the November meeting of Newcastle West Municipal District seeking an update on derelict buildings in the town.
“I acknowledge the work from the council but there is still a lot of work to do. It is most unsightly,” he said.
Frustrated with conservation laws delaying renovation work, Cllr Galvin continued: “It’s a very troublesome building. Could we look at getting its protected status revoked?”
Cllr John Sheahan echoed the chair’s sentiments saying: “It is an iconic building in Abbeyfeale but it has gone beyond repair. You would be looking at €1.5m to do something with it. We could even consider a replica of the building.”
He suggested demolishing the rear and preserving the front of the building which would ensure its cultural and aesthetic importance is preserved.
Cllr Francis Foley agreed stating: “It’s right bang smack in the middle of the town and we really need to drive it on.”
Addressing the meeting, Senior Executive Officer Karen Burke said the building “features a decorative plaster only found in Abbeyfeale and Listowel”.
She told elected members the mayor has agreed to fund the emergency works and that a mayoral order has been submitted seeking contractors to deal with it.
“I know progress is never fast enough but we are working hard, we are currently preparing a part 8 planning application.” she said.
Speaking to Limerick Live after the meeting, Cllr Liam Galvin added: “The mayor has his ideas for it I have my own, realistically its only fit to be demolished and the front part put into residential. If I had my way Id like to see the preservation order removed, maintain the front wall and demolish the whole lot.”