Mayo businessman has his say on 'not fit for purpose' Mall
Local businessman Paul Rodgers has entered the debate over the proposed masterplan for the Mall.
In a post on social media, he stated: "I agree The Mall/Green looks great as it is.
"However, issues exist which render this space not fit for purpose.
“Work over the years have resulted in a serious drainage problem in all the green areas. Nearly 100% of the Green is very wet for 75% of the year.
"I'm not sure if this is because of a major excavation of the main grassed area in the ‘70s to provide a sewerage link from the Curragh to Ellison Street, where a lot of the French drains were destroyed in the process together with significant water contribution from the roof of the former Methodist Church, compounded by high kerbing installed during the last make-over.
"The current occupiers have done a fantastic job with roof and window restoration to this building, so hopefully rainwater will be directed away correctly.
"The drainage problem remains and water retention on the site, I understand, contribute to the welfare of the trees, encouraging disease, as we have witnessed with the removal of seven very sick trees in the not-so-distant past and more to come.
"Another area which would require fixing are the footpaths. Bauxite finish was applied to the footpaths during the last revamp and every winter/spring, this becomes treacherous underfoot during frost or snow periods. So much so, a footpath emerges in the grass parallel to the main footpath through the park every year.
"The third problem, I think, is the location of the vehicular entrance on the Spencer Street side of the park. This should be reversed to its original position aligning Spencer Street with the main footpath through the Green while retaining a smaller pedestrian opening at the current location.
"This would provide easier access for service vehicles, together with looking more aesthetically correct. The green area at the same location could also facilitate a drop off/ pick up point for park users.
"Services to the area should be improved as I understand that only a single-phase domestic electrical supply exists (I could be proved wrong).
"This was very frustrating during the period from 2017 to 2020, when the ice rink came to town, as they had to provide their own generators and the Christmas market huts struggled for power from the existing supply.
"This should be at least upgraded to three-phase to provide for events.
"Consideration should be given to widen some of the footpaths, perhaps half a metre, to facilitate pedestrians to pass service vehicles when in operation.
"Consideration should also be given to the erection of a permanent traditional platform, like the stand in St. Stephen’s Green, to provide for entertainment and public forum. An ideal location would be to replace the failed fountain. This area would cater for various sized audiences on either side.
"I think if some of these issues are addressed, The Green/Mall will naturally progress without any serious visual impact while preserving if for future generations to enjoy."