Plans lodged for €7million revamp of derelict Tuam Station House
Public can make submissions
PLANS for an ambitious €7million re-development of the derelict Tuam Station House have been submitted by Galway County Council.
The Council has begun the formal planning process for the major refurbishment and extension of the building that adjoins the unused railway line.
The submission of the planning application is viewed as a key step in an overall multimillion-euro investment in the site located on Sean Purcell Road, just minutes from the town centre.
The plans will include the construction of a new enterprise hub featuring individual enterprise suites, a podcast studio, café/canteen and a multi-use community and event/educational space. The project is the first phase of a larger regeneration of the overall station lands involving a partnership between Galway County Council and Irish Rail.
Proposals for the site and building were on public display earlier this year but no submissions were received from the public at that stage.
The Part 8 planning application by the Local Authority will go before the members of the Tuam Municipal District in May.
Welcoming the progress, Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said “This is the type and scale of investment that is needed in our town centres to ensure they remain attractive and vibrant places to work, live and invest. I welcome that such a large number of people came through the doors at our initial consultation evening, where it was clearly evident that the Station House holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Tuam. I have no doubt but that this project will do the building justice and not only bring a sadly derelict building back into use but give the people of Tuam renewed confidence that we are committed to and passionate about the potential of Tuam Town and its people.”
Liam Hanrahan, Director of Services, said a huge amount of work has gone into the application.
“This project will significantly enhance the economic profile of Tuam and create a multitude of employment opportunities. This is exactly the type of project that was envisaged when Galway County Council set out our shared vision for Tuam in the Regeneration Masterplan and its benefits have the potential to be felt well beyond this particular site.
The planning application is available to view at County Hall, Tuam Area Office and on the public consultation portal hosted by Galway County Council at https://consult.galway.ie/. Submissions and observations from members of the public can be made up until May 14.