T

THE introduction of street coverings over parts of our town centre is once again being discussed in Killarney. After raising the matter at the recent meeting of Killarney Municipal District, Councillor Michael Gleeson noted that he had in recent years also highlighted it to the now-abolished Killarney Town Council. "As a town councillor, I proposed to Killarney Town Council that serious consideration would be given to the introduction of street coverings at locations where locals and visitors gather to re-create and relax,” he told Killarney Advertiser.
“The council accepted that the proposal had merit and decided to investigate the matter. Towards that end the factory that manufactures street umbrellas was visited.
The council was giving serious consideration to the erecting some on the pedestrianised part of Main Street.” It was intended to have detailed discussions with property owners along that street and their views would be carefully considered, added Cllr Gleeson.
“Sadly, before progress could be made, Minister Phil Hogan wielded his ruthless axe and abolished the town council,” he said. “In the belief that my original proposal may have some merit and some interest for the Killarney Municipal Area council. The response from the council was that the proposal had merit but that it needs further examination in relation to location, streetscape impact, procurement, ongoing maintenance and cost. We await the result of those investigations and the views of the public."
Engineer Paudie O’Mahoney has over the years highlighted his concept for large canvas covers for the streets. “We live in one of the wettest areas of the country,” he reasoned. “If we put out a few large canvas overs on the street I guarantee you people will like them.”
Both Mr O’Mahoney and Cllr Gleeson noted that street coverings would be of immense benefit when it came to staging outdoor events in Killarney as well as attracting shoppers, offering shelter from the elements no matter what the weather.
 

 
Above, our colourful and whimsical take on the concept.