THE transfer of the Shannon Venue site to the ownership of Clare County Council will clear the way for the development of a multi-functional civic and community building in the heart of the town centre.

That’s the view of Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey who said the completion of the process to give the council ownership of the 99 year lease on the building is a major element of the Shannon Town Centre Masterplan.

“This includes the development of the One Shannon Hub, which will have multiple uses, including the relocation of the Shannon District Council offices, a cinema and a performing arts centre. There are also plans for an area to accommodate co-working, education, training, exhibitions, meeting rooms and conferences,” Deputy Carey explained.

“I am glad that the transfer has been so enthusiastically welcomed by the directors of the Shannon Venue who have correctly described it as a fantastic opportunity for the town and its people.

“It also highlights the vision, dedication and hard work of Derek Barrett and the Venue directors over the past ten years and the generous support they’ve been given by the local community, particularly Mick Guinee of EI Electronics and Paddy Purcell of Mincon.

“The One Shannon Hub will be almost twice the size of the original  proposal for the Shannon Venue and will accommodate even more services and facilities. The design, funding and delivery of the project will now be the responsibility of Clare County Council and I look forward to supporting them in the task that lies ahead.

“Significant work has already been completed on the initial planning process and the council has already delivered a strong statement of intent by setting a completion and delivery date of 2027 for the One Shannon Hub. I have assured them of my wholehearted support in helping them achieve this ambitious target,” Deputy Carey concluded.