Local Notes: Dunnes make moves, summer camps and music nights - it's all happening in Ferrybank
Ferrybank Shopping Centre
Better Value Unlimited Company seeks planning permission at Ferrybank Shopping Centre, Ross Road, Ferrybank. The proposal includes modifications to the existing mall and car park, including landscaping and signage.
Interestingly, the first floor of the retail anchor unit (currently for comparison goods) will be converted into a 3,140sqm leisure unit (change of use from retail to leisure), which could mean a cinema incorporated in the centre, although it is mooted that it will most likely be a gym.
Also revised access and pedestrian routes, new boundary treatments, and service yard alterations.
The reason for the planning notice is to upgrade and reconfigure the existing shopping centre layout and facilities. A decision will be made at the end of August, so hopefully there will be no delay in opening.
There have been ongoing issues with the cycle lane outside the Briar Rose/The Village Bar, including repeated damage to the lane divider caused by vehicles mounting the kerb, as the traffic comes from Abbey Road, heading for New Ross, despite clear signage.
This has been reported to Waterford City & County Council as a serious safety hazard. Regrettably, it is understood that a cyclist recently fell at this location after striking the kerb and required ambulance assistance. The incident has again been reported to the Council, and we will continue to press for urgent safety improvements. This must be resolved before the greenway opens, as more cyclists will use the junction to access the facility.
In the meantime, all road users are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution when approaching this section.
Please be aware that work on re-surfacing pathways in the Slieverue Cemetery will commence in the 2nd week of July and will be ongoing until the end of August. Please be aware that there will be some inconvenience during this time.
The Thursday Club, a lovely new initiative that kicked off on Thursday last week. This warm and welcoming social gathering invited older residents (and anyone else interested!) to the community room beside Ferrybank Library, right in the shopping centre.
Attendees enjoyed tea, coffee, good chats, and light activities like bingo, cards and more. It offered a chance to drop in for a cuppa, connect with others, and enjoy a relaxed community get-together, no pressure, just great company.
The fantastic team at Kilmacow Day Services trialed the idea, and we were thrilled to support it. Let’s keep spreading the word to help it thrive! The first session was held last Thursday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm, and for any further information, contact 087 7375376.
A special night of music and solidarity is set to take place at The Seanti on Saturday, August 9, at 9:00pm. Local group Strangefruit, along with guest artists Karen Coss, Carla Kelly, and Francie White, will take the stage for a concert in aid of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), with proceeds supporting their humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
The concert, organised by Bobbie Carey, promises an evening of heartfelt music and community spirit, bringing together talented performers in support of a vital cause. Strangefruit, known for their rich acoustic sound and compelling performances, will be joined by a stellar lineup of local favourites to make this night one to remember.
Admission is €20, and all are welcome. Whether you're a lover of live music or simply want to show your support for humanitarian work, this is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a great night out while making a difference.
Mark your calendars and come out to The Seanti on August 9 — music, community, and compassion await.
Get ready for a week of movement, mindfulness, and creativity as Connect Studio in Ferrybank hosts its exciting Dance & Yoga Camp for children aged 5–9 years! Running from Tuesday, July 29, to Friday, August 1, the camp will take place daily from 10:00am to 12:15pm at Unit 19, Ross Abbey Town Centre, Ferrybank (between Tesco and Mr Price). Young participants can look forward to a fun-filled programme including commercial and contemporary dance, yoga sessions, arts and crafts, games and more! Priced at €65 per child, the camp also offers a sibling discount. It's the perfect opportunity for kids to build confidence, express creativity, and connect with others in a supportive, energetic environment. Spaces are limited, so early booking is advised. To reserve a spot, email connectstudiowaterford@gmail.com.
We will resume our weekly activities after the summer break on Wednesday, September 3. Wishing all our members a relaxing and enjoyable summer, and we look forward to seeing you again in September!
The Ferrybank and Slieverue parish warmly welcomes the following children into the Christian community recently. In the Church of the Sacred Heart, Ferrybank, Blake Shannon, Jefferson Ryan, and Lilly Grace Cronin. In the Church of the Assumption, Slieverue Cody Byrne, Laynie Byrne, and Justin Dalton.
