A women’s fashion retailer in Kilkenny has altered its sale signage, removing references to a store closure from its ongoing promotion. Sally West, located at 5 Kieran Street, initially announced a “closing down sale” in March 2023, but has since transitioned to a broader “Big Sale – Everything Must Go” message.

The change in wording comes after months of speculation regarding the store’s future. Local business owner Catherine O’Dwyer, of Lux Boutique, raised concerns about the impact of the lengthy sale on surrounding businesses. She emphasized that the prolonged nature of the sale was harming the economic vitality of the area, stating, “It’s taking all the money from the street. We all need to know how we are going to run our business while they’re doing this.”

In May, O’Dwyer noted the frequent deliveries of stock to Sally West, contradicting the idea of an imminent closure. “Stock is arriving every day with delivery drivers. There were 23 boxes there on Friday,” she remarked, highlighting the confusion among consumers who believed the store was on the verge of shutting down.

Following inquiries from the Kilkenny People in June, a spokesperson for Sally West indicated that the store was operating on a week-to-week basis. They expressed hope of remaining open through the summer despite the challenges of running a local business. “We had a very tough year but the reaction has been phenomenal and people are sorry to see us go. They have been very nice and supportive,” the spokesperson stated.

As the sale continues, the new signage reflects a shift in strategy aimed at retaining customer interest while navigating economic pressures. The lack of a definitive closure date has left both customers and local businesses in a state of uncertainty regarding the future of Sally West.

The situation raises important questions about the practices of retailers during sales events and their potential impact on local economies. As the summer progresses, the Kilkenny community will be watching closely for any updates regarding the store’s status.

A charming three-bedroom home in Tubbercurry, Co Sligo, has entered the property market with an asking price of €155,000. Nestled in a tranquil residential area, this home presents an appealing opportunity for small families seeking both comfort and convenience.

Located in the heart of a picturesque village, the property boasts proximity to essential amenities. Residents can enjoy local supermarkets, a bakery, cafes, pubs, schools, and a GAA club. Additionally, the village is home to one of Ireland’s top golf courses, allowing golf enthusiasts to indulge in their passion close to home.

Public transport options are readily available, providing connections to nearby towns. Tubbercurry offers routes to Boyle in Roscommon, facilitating travel to major cities such as Dublin, Sligo, and Galway. For those seeking more extensive amenities, Sligo town is just a 30-minute drive away, featuring shopping centres, restaurants, leisure facilities, and medical services.

Property Features and Layout

The residence is situated in a sought-after development known for its peaceful atmosphere and privacy. Parents will appreciate the convenience of a crèche located within the estate, simplifying the daily drop-off and pick-up routine.

Upon entering the property, visitors are greeted by an inviting hallway that leads to the spacious living room, kitchen/dining area, laundry room, and a stairwell to the upper floor. The living room showcases beautiful wooden flooring, an open fireplace, and a large window that offers views of the garden.

The kitchen area features elegant built-in wooden units, marble countertops, a tiled backsplash, integrated appliances, and a pantry. Large windows flood the space with natural light, creating an ideal environment for family meals. The dining area comfortably accommodates four people but can be expanded to seat six.

The laundry room includes built-in units along with a washing and drying machine, providing access to a convenient downstairs bathroom.

Bedrooms and Outdoor Space

The first floor comprises a primary bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, alongside two additional spacious bedrooms and a main bathroom. The primary suite features fitted carpet flooring, built-in wardrobes, and a window overlooking the garden, with ample space for a vanity table and storage.

The ensuite bathroom is partially tiled and equipped with an electric shower unit, washbasin, and toilet. The other bedrooms also boast wooden flooring and built-in wardrobes, with one currently serving as a home office. This versatile space could easily be transformed into a playroom, home gym, or entertainment room.

The main bathroom is similarly appointed, featuring partial tiling and an electric shower, alongside essential amenities.

Outside, the southwest-facing rear yard is designed for low maintenance, providing a private area for relaxation. The front of the property offers parking for two vehicles and includes a garden shed for additional storage. The property’s Building Energy Rating (BER) is B3, indicating good energy efficiency.

This appealing home in Tubbercurry, Co Sligo, presents a unique opportunity for potential buyers, combining spacious living with a charming village atmosphere at an attractive price point.

Midland Steel has inaugurated a new smart factory in Portlaoise, Ireland, with an investment of €16 million. This advanced facility is designed to produce steel reinforced cages that are essential for enhancing the structural integrity of concrete foundations and retaining walls. According to the company’s founder, Tony Woods, the factory will help meet the Government’s annual housing targets, producing enough cages to fulfill these requirements twice over.

The smart factory is equipped with cutting-edge technology aimed at optimizing production efficiency. This innovation comes at a crucial time as the housing crisis in Ireland continues to challenge policymakers. The steel rebar cages produced at this facility are vital components in various construction projects, ranging from large infrastructure developments to residential buildings.

Tony Woods emphasized the transformative potential of this factory, stating, “We want to revolutionise the entire construction industry.” With the new factory, Midland Steel aims to address the growing demand for housing by improving the supply chain and reducing lead times in construction projects.

The establishment of this facility is part of a broader strategy to modernize the construction sector. By leveraging smart manufacturing technologies, Midland Steel hopes to enhance productivity while also maintaining high quality standards. The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in its approach, which focuses on sustainability and efficiency.

As Ireland grapples with a shortage of housing, the role of companies like Midland Steel becomes increasingly significant. The factory not only promises to increase output but also supports jobs in the region, contributing to the local economy. The positive impact on employment and the construction industry is expected to resonate throughout Portlaoise and beyond.

In conclusion, the opening of Midland Steel’s new smart factory marks a significant step towards addressing Ireland’s housing needs. With the capability to produce a substantial volume of steel reinforced cages, the facility is poised to play a crucial role in the country’s construction landscape. As Tony Woods and his team strive to revolutionize the industry, the implications of this investment extend far beyond the factory walls, potentially reshaping the future of housing in Ireland.

A four-bedroom home in Collooney village, Co Sligo, has been listed for sale at €295,000. This property, situated in a picturesque area, offers an ideal living space for families seeking both comfort and convenience.

The residence is located within a peaceful development, allowing for a tranquil lifestyle while remaining close to the amenities of Sligo town, just a ten-minute drive away. The village itself boasts a variety of local services including a supermarket, bakery, cafes, pubs, and a leisure club, making it a well-rounded community for residents.

Spacious Interior with Modern Features

Upon entering the home, one is welcomed by a spacious hallway that leads to various areas of the house. The living room features attractive wooden flooring, a cozy burning stove, and large patio doors that open to the garden. This inviting space is designed for relaxation and entertainment, complete with a built-in media wall for movie nights.

The open-plan kitchen, dining, and sitting area showcase cream built-in units, wooden countertops, and integrated appliances. Large windows provide ample natural light and beautiful views of the garden. The dining area is equipped with a table that comfortably seats six, perfect for family meals.

The ground floor also includes a utility room, a bathroom, and one bedroom, which boasts fitted carpet flooring and built-in wardrobes.

On the first floor, the primary bedroom features an ensuite bathroom, while two additional spacious bedrooms share the main bathroom. Each bedroom is fitted with carpet flooring and ample storage, ensuring a comfortable living environment.

Outdoor Spaces and Additional Amenities

One of the standout features of this property is its garden, which includes a sheltered patio area suitable for al fresco dining throughout the year. The separate sitting room provides a peaceful retreat with direct access to the rear garden.

The garden is designed for easy maintenance and includes a fully insulated outbuilding with electricity. This versatile space is ideal for a home office, a creative studio, or a personal gym.

Additional amenities in the home include a Nest heating system, double-glazed PVC windows, a Quooker boiling water tap, a filtered water tap, an electric car charger, and a Google doorbell. The property also boasts a commendable BER rating of A1, indicating its energy efficiency.

Collooney is home to the scenic Mill Falls Waterfall, offering residents an attractive walking area for families and pets. Parents will appreciate the availability of various schools within a 10-kilometer radius, many of which provide private bus services. Public transport options are also accessible, with intercity rail services connecting the village to Sligo and Dublin.

This four-bedroom property represents a unique opportunity for potential buyers looking for a family-friendly home in a vibrant community. With its blend of modern amenities, spacious interiors, and proximity to natural attractions, it is certainly worth considering for those in the market.