Shop front grant is available to local businesses
Al fresco dining will be encouraged in New Ross and cafes and restaurants can apply to avail of a grant amounting to half of the cost of the works, up to €1,000 if completed by a VAT registered individual.
The New Ross municipal meeting heard that the scheme has been expanded for businesses throughout the town who have carried out works over recent months and who plan to carry them out this summer.
District manager Mick McCormack said: ‘ This is another effort by us as a council to support business post- Covid-19.’
Cllr Anthony Connick said any business that did work on their premises over the last two months should be included. Cllr Sheehan asked if awnings are included in the scheme.
Cllr Pat Barden said: ‘Surely if we are going to have grants for street furniture there is very little space on South Street and Mary Street.’
Mr McCormack said: ‘It will be very limited in terms of impact if you look at Irishtown, there is more space there.’
Cllr Barden said street furniture is only practical if there is pedestrianisation.
Mr McCormack said he has been dealing with a number of business owners in New Ross and through the chamber, adding the council is not going to enforce pedestrianisation. ‘ There is no rush to pedestrianise and we will engage with traders and the chamber of commerce before we make a decision in that regard.’
Concern was expressed that €10,000 will be spent very quickly. Mr McCormack said last year four businesses who applied were refused as it was oversubscribed. ‘We will assess the demand and if it’s oversubscribed again, I will come back to you and we will make a decision subject to budgets.’