Community turns up in droves at historic building in Wexford for final time ahead of regeneration project
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Wexford County Council hosted successful Open Days at the Gorey Market House recently, where members of the community and visitors to Gorey were given the chance to see the iconic building as it stands before the initial phase of the regeneration project begins.
The Market House, located on Main Street, holds a significant place in the town's history. The affection the local community have for the building was evident in the interest and enthusiasm shown for the regeneration project during the open days.
District Manager Philip Knight expressed his gratitude to the large public turnout, highlighting the strong community connection to the building. 'We are thrilled by the overwhelming interest and support shown during these Open Days. The Market House will soon be transformed into a vibrant social and community hub, inspired by the innovative European Bauhaus Principles that guide this regeneration project,' he said. During the open days on Friday, May 23 and Saturday, May 24, local historian, Willie Willoughby, conducted talks on the rich history of the Market House.
Attendees were captivated by stories recently uncovered, including the early days of the Gorey Credit Union operating within the building and a story about how a friendship began when two ladies received keys to their new home many years ago in the chamber office. Throughout the Open Days, video interviews were conducted with local residents, business owners, and community groups to capture their memories and hopes for the future of the Market House. These interviews will form part of ongoing project updates to keep the public informed as the regeneration progresses. Catherine Connaughton, Project Officer from the EU Programmes Division of the Southern Regional Assembly, was also present for the open days.
'The incredible community response to the Gorey Market House Open Days reflects exactly what THRIVE is all about, putting people, place and pride in local heritage at the heart of local development.
"By working with the community to reimagine this historic space, we're supporting a shared vision for a vibrant, inclusive town centre. It was a pleasure to hear memories from those connected to this building over the years,' said Catherine. The Gorey Market House project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland, the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme 2021–2027, and Wexford County Council.
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'I recommend that a condition be attached requiring the applicant to engage a suitably qualified archaeologist to carry out an Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) including an archaeological impact statement and mitigation strategy, to be submitted for the written agreement of the planning authority in advance of any site preparation works, groundworks and/or construction works.' Recommending that permission be granted and that Mr Lynn's appeal be dismissed, Mr Nelson stated that 'the proposed development would be acceptable and would not seriously injure the amenities of the area and would be acceptable in terms of traffic safety'. 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