Councillors call for boost to assist ‘vibrant’ village

Cllr Ó Broin told The Echo: “Clondalkin village is a vibrant place with a strong sense of community and a hardworking business sector. However, it has been hit hard by the recession. A growing number of shop units in the village are vacant. Impending commercial developments in Liffey Valley pose further challenges for the small business sector in the village.”

Cllr Ó Broin tabled a motion at last week’s Clondalkin Area calling for the creation of a working group tasked with the job of revitalising the economic life of the village. The group would be made up of business people, Council officials, councillors and other relevant stakeholders.

Cllr Ó Broin said: “South Dublin County Council has been involved with a number of important initiatives supporting small businesses in recent years, such as the business improvement grant and the shop-front signage initiative. However, a lot more could be done, particularly by coordinating the various stakeholders. We need to provide our micro-businesses with greater support”.

The council responded stating there are activities ongoing on a number of fronts all “aimed at revitalising the economic life of our villages”.

The council added: “While retail fora took place in 2015, attendance was somewhat disappointing. However, engagement with retailers will continue in 2016 to provide an opportunity for local retailers to engage with the council’s Sustainable Business Executive and identify issues. Supporting programmes will be developed through the Economic, Enterprise and Tourism SPC and Sustainable Business Executive role”.

The council also stated that public realm improvements from the Village Initiative, Tidy Towns and the County Signage programme, also support the legibility and attractiveness of village centres, thus encouraging visitors and locals alike to frequent local businesses.

Councillor Timmons tabled a motion asking the Chief Executive what incentives are being given by SDCC to increase economic development in Clondalkin village and to encourage, keep and promote local business already in the area and develop future business opportunities in the Clondalkin area.

The council stated that SDCC “works with all stakeholders to maximise business investment in the County including the Clondalkin area, both indigenous and foreign direct investment”.

They stated that SDCC has sought to support existing business, particularly through a range of initiatives including the Sustainable Business Executive, The Business Support Grant and the Shop Front grant scheme.

 

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