Four Ennis sites would contribute €3.5m to economy, report finds

Kevin Corrigan, COO, Ennis 2040 DAC; Pat Dowling, Chief Executive; and Carmel Kirby, Director of Economic Development, Clare County Council. Picture: Brian Arthur

An economic assessment of four sites in Ennis has found their redevelopment would contribute €3.5m annually to the regional economy.

Ennis 2040 DAC, in collaboration with Clare County Council, has published details of an Economic Impact Assessment on the transformative potential of a proposed €48m investment in four strategic town centre sites.

The four identified sites — Abbey Street Car Park, Harvey's Quay, Post Office Field, and a brownfield site on Francis Street — serve as key components in the delivery of the first phase of the Ennis 2040 Economic & Spatial Strategy.

The impact analysis, undertaken by AECOM, found the construction phase is projected to create 526 short-term jobs while the completed projects are expected to generate over 200 long-term jobs. The proposed developments also have the potential to deliver 79 homes, addressing the critical housing need for the town.

"These developments will introduce transformative changes to the town of Ennis," Pat Dowling, the Chief Executive of Clare County Council said. "While acknowledging that adjustments may be necessary, the overall benefits are poised to outweigh these challenges."

Carmel Kirby, Director of Economic Development, Clare County Council, said: "This report underscores the research already undertaken during the development of the Ennis 2040 Economic & Spatial Strategy. It demonstrates how the proposed investment in these sites not only supports economic growth but also the broader well-being of the community and the environment with the development of Post Office Field, the river boardwalks, and enhanced public realm."