Councillors Urge Revisions to Croom Plaza Project Plans

Plans to upgrade the former post office and village square in Croom have sparked significant concern among local councillors. During a meeting of the Adare-Rathkeale Municipal District in February 2024, elected officials were presented with a project proposal aimed at creating a new ‘plaza’ and transforming the old post office into a community craft hub and tourism centre. The councillors expressed worries regarding potential impacts on parking and the overall condition of the former post office, which has remained vacant for several years.

Cllr John O’Donoghue expressed his support for addressing the square’s current state, describing it as “not in a great state.” However, he raised critical questions about the implications for local traffic and parking availability. O’Donoghue noted that the expected increase in traffic following the construction of the new N/M20 could exacerbate existing issues, particularly around the nearby T-junction. He also pointed out that Bus Éireann has indicated it will not expand services in Croom due to traffic congestion concerns.

In addition to traffic-related issues, O’Donoghue inquired about the management of the proposed craft hub. “Who will run the new hub if it is converted into a working space?” he asked.

Cllr Adam Teskey acknowledged Croom’s potential for growth but voiced reservations about the project being limited to a single area rather than being part of a comprehensive rejuvenation strategy. He emphasized the need for a broader vision to ensure lasting benefits for the entire village.

Cllr Bridie Collins also welcomed the public realm project but echoed O’Donoghue’s concerns regarding parking issues. She highlighted how insufficient parking could negatively impact local businesses and their customers. Furthermore, Collins expressed hope that the plaza project could foster connections between Croom, Ballingarry, and Adare, enhancing access to the Greenway, which she referred to as the “meat and bones of tourism.”

Concerns about the financial implications and timeline for the project were voiced by Cllr Stephen Keary. He pointed out that considerable constraints exist due to Uisce Éireann infrastructure limitations in Croom, which could hinder future developments.

Councillors unanimously agreed that revisiting the plans is essential to ensure that the project meets local needs and integrates effectively with the broader community context. As discussions continue, the future of Croom’s village square remains a key point of contention and opportunity for local stakeholders.