The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Kerry Greens baulk at office space plans
FORMER Tralee Green Party election candidate Anne-Marie Fuller has blasted Kerry County Council’s (KCC) decision to include a ‘Grade A’ constructed, three-storey office block on the former Denny site as part of the Island of Geese Project, which was approved by councillors at Monday’s meeting of Tralee Municipal District.
“I think this is part of the backward thinking that has held Tralee back for years, we need to get out of this mentality, it’s hugely disappointing,” Anne-Marie told The Kerryman.
The 2019 local election candidate, who received five percent of first preference votes, said a submission from the Kerry Green Party was one of the 25 submissions received by the council. The Greens described the plans as ‘incorrect development’ from a community, heritage, economy and environment perspective. The Greens also wanted the entire Denny site given over to public amenity use.
“It’s crazy. There’s a lot of empty buildings in Tralee Town Centre already, which I believe is around 25 percent at the moment. Our preference is for these buildings to be renovated and turned into office space. I don’t think there is any need for a huge office building at the moment. The Government is putting together its ‘Town Centre First’ policy, so there is going to be incentives and money there to renovate existing buildings,” she said.
KCC say the new offices will be constructed with the environment and energy efficiency in mind, catering for upwards of 250 workers. This would ‘significantly enhance’ the economic infrastructure of the town by marketing its potential for Foreign Direct Investment. It’s also speculated that one of the major multinationals may take over the accommodation. “This is coming at a time when major companies are encouraging people to work from home because of COVID-19. Where has the council been on this one?” Anne-Marie said.
“There is a lot of carbon emissions when you build something new from concrete. From an environmental point of view it’s better to renovate existing buildings and appreciate the built heritage we have. How long did it take to fill the office buildings across the road from Tralee Railway Station? It’s disappointing and it doesn’t make sense on any level.”
Lastly, Anne-Marie dismissed KCC’s assertion that 30 percent of the new site will be earmarked as a public amenity area.
“When you look at the plans, most of this 30 percent public ground is designed as a way to walk through the site; there is a little amphitheatre and play area but it’s so small. It’s mostly made up of paths, it’s not even a park,” she said.