Council acquire 'important and strategic site' in Mayo county town

Mayo County Council has acquired what has been described as 'an important and strategic site in Castlebar having regard to its town centre location between Ellison Street and the Mall'.

The land had four different ownerships and as development of this area was never going to be possible without its consolidation into one ownership, the council has now completed the purchase of all four plots of land.

A spokesperson stated: "Work has commenced on consideration of issues around use, scale and design and discussion will take place with the elected members once this preliminary analysis has been completed

"This presents a very significant opportunity for Castlebar town centre and will complement the other town centre initiatives already underway."

Welcoming the news, Councillor Donna Sheridan said she looked forward to the proposed enhancement works that will further rejuvenate the entire area at a time when there are plans already in the pipeline for the former Imperial Hotel as well as the Mall and Rock Square.

Nearby at Ellison Street, four derelict buildings are currently being demolished to make way for a social housing scheme.