Mayo jobs boost as investment planned for former Volex building

A PLAN is in place to create 30 new jobs at the former Volex plant at Breaffy Road in Castlebar.

The Walsh Group, Kimaine Road, Ballinrobe, has sought to lease 3,573 square metres of the building from Mayo County Council.

The company is proposing to establish a mechanical engineering offsite and fabrication facility at the location.

The proposal has the potential to create up to 30 jobs over the next two years.

An agreement in principle has been negotiated with the Walsh Group by council officials.

It involves the Walsh Group investing over €1 million in a programme of upgrading and other works to the building.

A six-year lease is being offered and, from year six, the rent of €20,000 per annum will increase to full commercial rate based on market value pertaining at that time.

However, Walsh Group has the option to purchase the lease at the end of year five or year six at a price of €570,000.

John Magee, acting director of services, recommended approval of the leasing agreement at yesterday's meeting of the council.

The total floor area of the former Volex building is 5,663 square metres.