Limerick homes saved from demolition and donated to the community
Askeaton Civic Trust given keys to historic Brewery Lane houses
A PARADE of terraced cottages in Askeaton have been saved from demolition thanks to the efforts of the local community.
The homes in Brewery Lane offer a glimpse into Askeaton's past, with Limerick City and County Council responding to pleas from local residents to bring them back to their former glory.
Now this has happened, Askeaton Civic Trust have been given the keys to the bungalows under a licence agreement.
Although they are without electricity or running water, Carmel Ryan of the group says they will be well-used.
People can approach the heritage group with ideas for events, and over time, it's hoped grants will be got to install electricity and a sewerage system.
The cottages are deeply intertwined with the family history of former councillor Kevin Sheahan.
In his youth, he recalled visiting his bachelor uncle Michael and spinster aunt Mary-Kate who lived in two of the three cottages.
Kevin says he is delighted the properties have been saved, having previously been under threat of being demolished in favour of a car park.
"I am delighted these were left there. It was called one-time in a publication, Askeaton’s shame. The ivy was growing out of the window and so forth. They had been empty a long time. But I'm thrilled we have got taxpayers’ money to do what the council has done, and secondly, that the keys of these property have been given to Askeaton Civic Trust, an organisation I am the founding chairman of,” he said.
"We need these properties. We will use them,” he told a special re-opening event in the town.