Livestock mart to reopen after locals finalise purchase deal

A LIVESTOCK mart in Co Clare which closed in 2009 sparking outrage in the local community, is set to reopen later this year after a deal to purchase the facility was finalised.

Sixmilebridge Mart first opened in 1973 but ceased operations at the end of 2009 with the owners, Golden Vale Marts, stating that the operation was no longer viable.

The closure shocked the local community and farmers over a wide area of east Clare who quickly rallied together and mounted a year-long campaign to purchase and reopen the mart.

Following months of deadlock, it was confirmed last December that the facility had been purchased for €300,000, half the original asking price of €600,000.

Over 600 farmers, members of the local community and other groups, including the local Parish Council joined forces and purchased shares to fund the bid.

It has now been confirmed that contract documents finalising the purchase of the old mart have been signed and it is hoped that the facility will recommence trading on August 27.

A shareholder’s meeting will take place tomorrow night at which members will elect a board of management to oversee the running of the mart.