Call to extend shopfront scheme to large villages
JULY 29 is the deadline for businesses to apply for the shopfront scheme, which, although fully subscribed, may be extended council – finances allowing.
Speaking at the municipal council meeting, district manager Mick McCormack said there has been a great response to the scheme.
‘We’ve had eleven applicants who are successful on a first come, first served basis. The budget is €10,000. Nine are on a waiting list,’ he said.
The shopfront scheme pays out a maximum of €1,000 to a business which improves the appearance of their enterprise on a 50/50 basis. This includes outdoor furniture and awnings and applies to businesses who employed a VAT registered painter/company to carry out the works.
Mr McCormack said the scheme cannot be extended until after July 29 and even though it may not be as the funding may not be there.
‘ The scheme is still open even though it’s oversubscribed,’ he said.
Cllr Pat Barden called for the scheme to be extended, saying further funding is required to assist the town’s businesspeople.
Cllr Anthony Connick said it is best to wait until the end of the month to see the final figure of applicants and then seek the funding.
Mr McCormack said the scheme operated in 2019 with a budget of €10,000. ‘ We matched that ourselves (so it was a €20,000 spend). €1,000 is a substantial grant so it’s a big investment from us.’ Cathaoirleach Cllr Michael Whelan asked if the scheme can be extended to large villages within the district. Mr McCormack said there are major villages like Clonroche, Fethard-onSea, Wellingtonbridge, Campile and Duncannon within the district, saying there was merit in Cllr Whelan’s suggestion.
THE digging of a large grave at Ballyhack cemetery is a very worrying development that should be investigated.
This is the view of executive scientist with Wexford County Council Brendan Cooney, who told the municipal district meeting that he would look into the matter.
Cllr Michael Sheehan had asked if the cemetery was under the council’s jurisdiction or under an outside jurisdiction. ‘ There are a lot of sensitivities based around that,’ Cllr Sheehan said. ‘We need to get to the bottom of it.’
AN application for funding to improve Brennan’s Lane in New Ross has been submitted.
Speaking at the municipal council meeting, district manager Mick McCormack said an application has been made under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme.
‘ The drawings have been done and a preliminary submission has been made. It’s on our agenda,’ he said, following a request for an update by Cllr Anthony Connick.