Large crowd turnout to discuss plans for landmark building

MEMBERS of the public gathered recently to discuss the potential future plans for Gorey Market House as part of the THRIVE grant application process.

15 of Wexford County Council’s staff members are currently working on this grant application which is being spearheaded by Director of Services, Liz Hore. Wexford County Council in collaboration with ODKM Architects and A Playful City, invited members of the public to take part in the consultation which took place at Gorey Market House, Gorey Library and Gorey Shopping Centre.

“This landmark building has the potential to become a vibrant central hub for the Gorey community, and the council wants to ensure it serves people’s needs effectively.

“With consultants and architects on hand, there were many fantastic contributions, including from members of the North Wexford Historical Society, Gerard Fleming, Willie Willoughby and Peter O’Connor, who along with others, had already met with the outgoing chief executive Tom Enright last autumn, and who had been making detailed proposals for the past 12 years,” said Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin.

Cllr Ó Súilleabháin presented on this for the first time in 2012 to what was then the Gorey Town Commissioners and the five District County Councillors.

“There have been many twists and turns since then, as well as expressions of interest from various developers. At times it looked like it could have been leased long-term, with some seeking a 99-year lease which would in effect have amounted to ownership.”

“I believe it has always been crucial to drive home the message that it has been the public’s wish for it to be developed but remain in full public ownership and at the very heart of Gorey, as it has been since 1707,” said Cllr Ó Súilleabháin.

It was decided last year that the council would develop the landmark building and they’d work alongside the newly-formed Gorey Development Group, who will soon be re-opening the Craft Shop in the building.