Development of western centre set to energise region

ALTHOUGH not quite premier league, Sligo has, like its League of Ireland soccer team, been placed in the first division under the National Spatial Strategy. It is one of nine towns and cities earmarked for accelerated growth over the next two decades.

Sligo is one of nine major gateways that have been designated under the plan. Environment Minister Martin Cullen said it was selected because of its strategic location in the north west and its physical and infrastructural capacity to develop.

“Sligo’s spatial position means it is capable of energising a wider area encompassing parts of Mayo, Leitrim, Donegal and Sligo county, ” he said.

There are more than 3,000 unemployed people in Sligo. It is hoped the town’s inclusion as a gateway will help alleviate unemployment, help existing businesses grow and encourage new enterprises.

His views were echoed yesterday by Sligo Chamber of Commerce president Tom Ford.

“We have received a commitment for investment by the Government. That is great news for us.”

Tuam mayor Colm Keaveney said he wouldn’t be popping open the champagne bottle after the town was given ‘hub’ status under the spatial strategy.

While the mayor is grateful the town is to receive more attention and investment, he believes it is needed now, not over a period of 20 years.

He said: “It is positive that we are getting recognition from a national authority but we need a greater attention to our resources here and now.

Mr Keavney claims Tuam has been under-represented and under-resourced for years. “We need our hospital to be re-opened for a start. It is an urgent and necessary service.

The 60-bed hospital hasn’t been operational for over a year.

Tuam town councillor Miko Kelly questioned just what being a ‘hub’ meant: “A hub to what, or of what? A hub of Galway city? Are we to get whatever falls off their plate? Tuam has been looking for decentralisation and investment for a long time now. The rail line between Tuam and Galway was shut down years ago, and we would like to see this opened again.