Almost €3m funding boost for market square
Fine Gael Senator Garret Ahearn has confirmed that Thurles will receive €2,893,681 under the Rural Regeneration Development Fund from Minister of Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys.
Senator Garret Ahearn said: “I am delighted to confirm that Thurles is set to receive €2,789,681 in funding to build a Market Quarter beside the MIC college in the town centre. This is a redevelopment of a Local Authority owned 19th century vacant ‘Agricultural Building’ and its associated car-park to facilitate MIC’s Student Union’s offices, a weekend farmer’s market, and a multi-functional events space.”
Senator Ahearn said “The idea is to model this like the Limerick Milk Market which has been hugely successful in Limerick city over the last decade. The ‘Agricultural Building’ will include office space, a café/restaurant, public toilets and a demountable stage. The carpark will be transformed into an outdoor events space covered with an architecturally designed canopy and will provide for a multitude of uses as required.”
“The Market Quarter will tie together two areas of the town which have recently seen significant investment; Liberty Square, a large scale public realm enhancement scheme currently under construction; and the newly developed town park including a playground, skate-park and pedestrian bridge over the River Suir.
Senator Ahearn continued: “Tipperary has a wealth of high-class food producers, many of whom started their businesses and continue to sell in local markets. The Market Quarter seeks to embrace the new and established talent within Tipperary’s food, art and craft sectors and give small businesses a chance to thrive.
Cllr Peter Ryan also welcomed the news. He commented: “Now more than ever we realise the importance of shopping local and supporting small businesses and local producers. The Thurles Market Quarter allows for a covered space where local farmers can sell their produce alongside local artists, craftspeople, chefs and florists. This forum will allow small businesses to establish a base and showcase their product outside of the confines and costs of a business premises.”
“I would like to thank Tipperary County Council and the officials who put the application together and acknowledge the excellent work from my colleague Cllr Peter Ryan in highlighting the importance of this project,” Senator Garret Ahearn concluded.