Action urged on commercial vacancy rates

THE issue of commercial vacancy rates in Enniscorthy town centre once again raised its head as Fianna Fáil TD James Browne called on the government to take action. Deputy Browne said that Enniscorthy and New Ross had among the highest rates of vacancy in commercial buildings in Leinster.

‘The vacancy rate in New Ross stands at 19.5%,’ said Deputy Browne. ‘While this marks a slight improvement in contrast to recent reports, it’s still the sixth highest commercial vacancy rate in Leinster.

However, Enniscorthy’s total is worse than previous studies. The rate of commercial vacancies has risen by 2% to 17.7%. The figures show that while there may be some economic growth in large urban areas, Enniscorthy and New Ross continue to struggle. The Government needs to come forward with comprehensive proposals to encourage new businesses to setup in New Ross and Enniscorthy.’

CEO of Enniscorthy & District Chamber Catriona Murphy says that while action is needed, things are maybe not quite as bad as they seem. Ms Murphy pointed to the opening of shoe shop J’Adore on Wafer Street and Sleep Solutions in Templeshannon as evidence of green shoots. She also said that good news was imminent on the old Dunnes Stores building on Rafter Street.