‘Unworkable’ towns scheme is putting funding at risk

RECIPIENTS of a council grant to enhance streetscapes in six towns throughout Galway have complained that the deadline for works to be completed is making the scheme unworkable.

The Street Enhancement Scheme received applications totalling over €500,000 from the six towns selected: Ballygar, Glenamaddy, Headford, Loughrea, Oranmore and Oughterard, yet funding of only €336,000 was granted. The funding covers painting of buildings, improvements to shop front window displays; green enhancement of entrances and terraces with planting, canopies and awnings; decluttering and repair of shop fronts, and replacement signage.

Those who were successful were notified last Friday, but with a deadline of November 5 for money to be drawn down, recipients say it’s impossible to complete the works in such a short time frame.

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