Clonmel town centre closures
Concern is raised about Clonmel’s recent town-centre closures and the role of URDF funding in regeneration. The Taoiseach says the New Look closure is a blow for workers and says he will discuss a timeline for the next URDF call.
The town of Clonmel is the social and economic hub not only for south Tipperary but also for east Limerick, north and west Waterford, south and west Kilkenny and part of north Tipperary. It has a rich history and heritage and it is a great town in which to live, work, shop and socialise. Unfortunately, however, the town centre has suffered a number of high-profile closures, including last week's announcement by New Look. The urban regeneration development fund, URDF, operated by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage an important when it comes to the redevelopment and regeneration of town centres. Tipperary County Council has a town centre project for Clonmel ready to go. A successful application under call 4 of the programme is vital for the future of the town. When will call 4 be opened for applications?
Comment on this
I thank the Deputy for raising the issue. The decision by New Look is a devastating blow for the workers in the first instance. We will do everything we can, through the Government agencies, to see if we can secure alternative employment for those workers. Clonmel is a fine and very attractive town, and a significant hub in the region. I will talk to the Minister about a timeline for call 4 of the URDF.