Leitrim town centre may raise the roof – literally – with ambitious proposal

A bold idea was brought forward at a meeting of the Manorhamilton Municipal District to enhance outdoor events on the town’s Main Street, particularly given Ireland’s unpredictable weather.

Cllr Felim Gurn proposed exploring the concept of a retractable roof for the Main Street and suggested it be included in the Town Team document to secure future funding.

Last year, a fully retractable roof was installed on Monck Street in Wexford – a small, narrow street best known for its nightlife. Cllr Gurn noted that Manorhamilton’s similarly narrow Main Street makes it a strong candidate for such a structure.

He told the meeting that during the Leitrim Gathering, when Declan Nerney came to perform, a crowd of 1,500 to 2,000 people was expected. However, due to heavy rain, only about 300 attended.

“This ticks the box under the Town Plan because it’s about economic footfall,” Cllr Gurn said.

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“This future proofs such events and will lead to a wow factor on Main Street that is long and narrow and is suitable for such a retractable roof where the traffic flow can go around the town and HVG vehicles no longer come down the Main Street,” his motion stated.

Cllr Gurn’s motion received support from several councillors, who backed investigating the possibility of including the proposal in the town plan.

“This is an opportunity for Manorhamilton, it doesn’t really suit the layout of other towns,” Cllr Warnock commented.

However, the proposal depends on local prioritisation and planning.

A response from the Economic Development section noted that if the Town Team considers this a priority, they can apply for funding under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, which offers grants ranging from €50,000 to €500,000.

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There would also need to be discussions with the Planning Department regarding the structure itself, and with the Roads Department if traffic changes are involved.

“If considered necessary, it may be an option to apply under the Town and Village Project Development Measure for funding to engage expertise to examine the potential for such a proposal and bring it through the Planning,” the response concluded.