’Transformational’ potential for Shannon as 20-acre town centre site acquired - Clare Echo

*The site is located in Shannon Town Centre  || Inset: Michael Guinee of Ei Electronics SHANNON Chamber has described the acquisition of a 20-acre town centre site as a potentially “transformational” opportunity for the future of the town. Shannon Gateway Projects, established by Ei Electronics founder Michael Guinee, recently announced it had acquired the strategically … ‘Transformational’ potential for Shannon as 20-acre town centre site acquired Read More »

*The site is located in Shannon Town Centre || Inset: Michael Guinee of Ei Electronics

SHANNON Chamber has described the acquisition of a 20-acre town centre site as a potentially “transformational” opportunity for the future of the town.

Shannon Gateway Projects, established by Ei Electronics founder Michael Guinee, recently announced it had acquired the strategically important site and appointed Grafton Architects to lead a masterplanning process for its future development.

While no specific development proposals have yet been confirmed, the company has said the site presents a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to support the future growth and vitality of Shannon.

Shannon Gateway Projects said the masterplan process will explore how the site can support economic and social development and strengthen the town centre.

The masterplan will take account of Clare County Council’s existing town masterplan and will involve engagement with local stakeholders and other interested parties.

Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes welcomed the announcement, saying the Chamber had consistently highlighted the need for Shannon to reach its full potential not only as a major employment and investment location, but also as a town in which people want to live, work and spend time.

“The acquisition of this strategically important 20-acre town centre site, and the ambition now being shown for its future development, is enormously encouraging,” she said.

“The appointment of Grafton Architects to lead the masterplanning process also signals the scale of that ambition and the importance being attached to creating a development of lasting value for Shannon and its community.”

Ms Downes said the acquisition was another example of Mr Guinee’s longstanding contribution to Shannon and County Clare.

She also welcomed his stated intention to approach the site from the perspective of public benefit, place-making and the long-term future of Shannon.

“Shannon has long been recognised as an economic engine, with a successful airport and a thriving business park, but it also faces a perception challenge as a planned town,” she said.

“Unlocking the potential of this town centre site offers a real chance to enhance Shannon’s appeal as a place to live and spend time, draw more people into the town centre, and to strengthen existing retail and services.”

She described the development as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” and said Shannon Chamber looked forward to engaging in the masterplanning process.

“We look forward to seeing the vision develop and to engaging constructively in the masterplanning process to help ensure that this important site contributes to a vibrant, attractive and sustainable future for Shannon,” she said.

Shannon Gateway Projects said the masterplan will take account of Clare County Council’s most recent town masterplan and will be informed by engagement with local stakeholders and other interested parties.

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