Summer Fair to return to town

The Fair proved a huge hit with locals and visitors and gave the local economy a much needed boost as well as providing entertainment and a good day out.

The reintroduction of the Fair is just one of the initiatives being rolled out by a rejuvenated Chamber whose meeting last week to discuss ways of boosting the town saw one of its best attendances for years.

The renewed interest has been sparked by the enthusiasm shown for the Christmas lights and a willingness to focus more attention on the town in general with a series of well-planned events for 2014.

In addition to the Fair which is scheduled to take place in July, a Fashion Show and Beauty event will also be held in March and preparations for the Giro d’Italia will include bedecking the town pink and encouraging schoolchildren, youth groups and businesses to get involved.

There’s also a two-day commemoration of World War 1 celebrating its 100th anniversary for August 1 and 2 and a major Business Awards event which will be held in September.

‘Independents’ Day in July will be repeated and the Food Taster Event had such positive feedback when it was held recently will be staged again this time taking in more retail outlets and with the addition of buskers and general entertainment in the town.

Chamber President, Winnie Mellett, said she was delighted at the turn out for the meeting last week.

“We had first-timers there including a representative from Trolans SuperValu and that gave us great encouragement. The Chamber has taken a firm grip on things and with the support of our traders and business people we should see plenty of buzz about the town this year,” Mrs Mellett said.

News of the Fair and the other events have been warmly welcomed by many and there was further good news on the business front this week with planning permission being given for the development of property at 53-63 Castle Street.

Speaking at a recently council meeting Alderman Bill Kennedy said the plans made provision for the development of an existing town centre brownfield site to provide replacement retail development, including associated alterations to existing road layout and replacement of two existing accesses with one upgraded access.

“It really is nice to see this development being approved which will provide more business for the town,” he said.