‘A major milestone’ - Historic changes at Portlaw village are supported
Proposed public realm at Malcolmson Square
An "enormous" project which will drastically alter the layout and function of Portlaw village was approved by councillors during a special meeting of Waterford Council yesterday morning.
Funding application to deliver the project has now been submitted by the Council.
Subject to funding, the proposal would see the former courthouse building repurposed into a community centre, Market Square upgraded and pedestrianised, and changes made to local road layouts to improve pedestrian access, parking and traffic flow.
At the village’s focal point, Malcolmson Square, the roundabout which has been in place since the 1960s will be removed to create pedestrian priority and provide public realm spaces.
Conor O’Neill, Senior Executive Engineer Waterford City & County Council, said the development presents major “socio-economic and wellbeing benefits.”
“We are improving the safety of vulnerable users, providing commercial opportunities and recreating the historical focal point of Portlaw” Mr O’Neill said.
He added that the project will be delivered in phases.
Portlaw based councillor, Declan Clune, said “today represents a major milestone in the regeneration journey for Portlaw.”
“For the last several years the people of Portlaw spoke about regenerating the village and enhancing its core.
“This is not the end of the process, but it’s a hugely significant step that paves the way for Waterford Council to submit a major funding application to turn this ambitious vision into a reality.”
Cllr Clune said there have been significant redesigns and consultations over the past number of years to get the project to where it currently stands. He commended local organisations, volunteers and residents who have "worked tireless over the past several years to champion the project."
“Their passion, patience and belief in the future of Portlaw has brought us to this point.“
Mayor of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr Liam Brazil, also voiced his full support for the project, as did Cathaoirleach of the Comeragh District, Cllr Seanie Power.
Meanwhile, Cllr John O’Leary and Cllr Catherine Burke said they were relieved that concerns from the public regarding plans to have a cul-de-sac at George’s Street have been amended by the Council.
“I am delighted that the Council has overcome that challenge of avoiding at cul-de-sac at George’s Street, because that would have taken away from the heritage of Portlaw" Cllr O'Leary said.
Following yesterday’s meeting, the Council submitted for funding to deliver the project.
Mr. Conor O’Neill said the maximum amount that the Council can apply for at this stage is ten-million-euro.
He added that there will be a 2-million-euro matched contribution from the Council.
“We will use every penny of that to do as much as we can at this phase. There will be other phases, and it is an enormous project for the town" he said.
(Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme)
