Mayo street space plan debated as more town centre businesses reopen

A COUNCILLOR'S proposal to open up public spaces for commercial use by coffee shops and other businesses in Castlebar has come before a local area meeting for discussion.

In an effort to support businesses reopening after the Covid shutdown, Councillor Ger Deere would like to see those located near the Mall, Market Square and Bridge Lane, for example, being allowed to use this space, with seating and tables.

Whatever bureaucracy is attached, he said, they would have to get through it. Such a move would address social distancing and create an atmosphere and show Castlebar is fighting back and on its feet again.

The issue of by-laws about placing items on footpaths was raised by Councillor Michael Kilcoyne.

The head of the municipal district, Iarla Moran, said the council is engaging with businesses and are open to looking at it.

There would be insurance and safety issues to be looked at. The council's architects are looking at the streetscapes.

They were happy to work with businesses, he added.

*Pictured is Market Square in Castlebar with tables and chairs set up for a festival a number of years ago.