€20m - the cost of Covid-19 crisis to Tipp Co Co
The Covid-19 crisis is expected to cost Tipperary Co Council more than €20 million, though the authority remains focused on delivering as many projects planned for this year as possible.
In a highly-detailed submission to local Oireachtas members, the council stated that the full impact of the pandemic on its finances has yet to be measured, and will depend to a large degree on the duration of the crisis and rate of recovery. At this time, its best estimate of the impact on revenue streams and additional costs for the current year is €20.58 million.
Nevertheless, the council is seeking to bring forward measures that will assist local economic recovery and return to business, including measures that are part of the Project Ireland 2040 national framework.
REDEVELOPING BANBA SQUARE
In Nenagh, a plan to demolish several buildings at the junction of Emmet Place and Mitchel St and build a new car park is moving ahead. The council will be going to tender for these works in the coming weeks. Similarly, plans to redevelop Banba Square, provide a new tourist office at Nenagh Arts Centre, and improve the John's Lane Car Park, are also progressing.
In Nenagh, a plan to demolish several buildings at the junction of Emmet Place and Mitchel St and build a new car park is moving ahead. The council will be going to tender for these works in the coming weeks. Similarly, plans to redevelop Banba Square, provide a new tourist office at Nenagh Arts Centre, and improve the John's Lane Car Park, are also progressing.
Director Marcus O'Connor told last week's meeting of Nenagh Municipal District that now is an ideal opportunity to move ahead with the Emmet Place junction project, as the town is less busy than normal. He said the council has also received road licence funding from the Ervia infrastructure project that could be put towards new works.
He was responding to questions from Cllr Hughie McGrath (Ind), who wanted to know if the council has the funding to press ahead with its plans to rejuvenate the town centre after Covid-19. Cllr McGrath said towns and villages everywhere would struggle if they do not receive suitable government funding.
HELP TOWN CENTRES TO RECOVER
Mr O'Connor mentioned the council's submission, which addresses the need to help town centres recover. He agreed that many towns and villages are “on their knees”, and said Tipperary Co Council would be making Urban Regeneration and Development Fund applications to press ahead with planned enhancement works.
The submission highlights the council's efforts in a number of areas, from housing to communications technology to mental health. It identifies priorities to reignite and renew the local economy, including the new Shannon crossing at Ballina and planned realignment of the R498 Nenagh to Thurles road.
It also focuses on creation of new employment opportunities in foreign direct and other investment through the development of council landbanks at Stereame in Nenagh and Benamore in Roscrea.
Mr O'Connor mentioned the council's submission, which addresses the need to help town centres recover. He agreed that many towns and villages are “on their knees”, and said Tipperary Co Council would be making Urban Regeneration and Development Fund applications to press ahead with planned enhancement works.
The submission highlights the council's efforts in a number of areas, from housing to communications technology to mental health. It identifies priorities to reignite and renew the local economy, including the new Shannon crossing at Ballina and planned realignment of the R498 Nenagh to Thurles road.
It also focuses on creation of new employment opportunities in foreign direct and other investment through the development of council landbanks at Stereame in Nenagh and Benamore in Roscrea.
The submission furthermore details the supports provided to local business by Tipperary Local Enterprise Office. Included is the Business Continuity Voucher (BCV) scheme, which has worked well to date, but is “very resource-heavy with the appointment of advisors and consultants to a whole range of businesses across all sectors”. The council advises that €500,000 will be needed if all BCV (at €2,500) applications are processed.
A number of schemes have already been put in place including the three-month rates waiver initiative for all businesses that were forced to close due to public health requirements.
“The council is continuing to progress projects under Project Ireland 2040 funds to regenerate and rejuvenate our towns,” Joe MacGrath, CEO, stated.
“A number of applications have already been successfully made to these funds and further applications are proposed in future calls. The council is firmly committed to projects already commenced and those due to start later this year.”