Independent TD, Deputy Michael Lowry turned the first sod, on Monday of this week, (January 27th, 2020) on a major new development that will mark the dawn of a bright new future for Thurles.
The derelict Erin Foods factory is about to become a hive of activity as demolition work starts to level the site; same which will house a new high-end model flagship store for Lidl Ireland, as well as two 30,000 square foot buildings that will form the Thurles Business and Innovation Centre.
The project will also facilitate the future development of the town as a whole, by providing the first phase of the much anticipated Thurles Inner Relief Road that will link Slievenamon Road to Mill Road. The total value of the project is €25million and Deputy Lowry says that it is the start of a new beginning for Thurles.
The Business and Innovation Centre project, which has full Planning Permission now in place, is a joint partnership between Wesley Quirke of Baycross Developments Ltd., and Castletown Capital Ltd.
Lidl Ireland unlocked the potential of the site, recognising its strategic location in close proximity to the town centre and its suitability to develop a flagship store on a 2.5 acre area of the site. This led to further interest in the site and a decision by this joint partnership to come on board to build the two 30,000 square foot buildings, creating an amazing opportunity to attract new business into the town.
The Centre will be fully equipped with all the services required and will be appealing to companies involved in Research and Development, science, pharmaceuticals, technology, call centres or as a Headquarters for a Public Service office, indeed the potential is vast.
The developers themselves have identified a very lucrative tenant for a part of the building with the potential for job creation and are in discussions with other potential businesses.
Deputy Lowry has confirmed that IDA Ireland has visited this fully serviced site and have listed the Business and Innovation Centre on their books and will actively pursue future tenants for the high-spec premises. The IDA is very impressed with its potential to attract inward investment from businesses seeking centrally located ready-to-go premises in the heart of Ireland.
“Up to now one of the main challenges for job creation in Thurles was the lack of suitable accommodation. This new development addresses that challenge and marks a major progression for the town. It’s a big vote of confidence in Thurles and it would not have happened if Lidl had not made the first move to secure part of the site for their new store”.
Mr Lowry stated that the event on Monday was a hugely significant day for Thurles. He added that it is wonderful to see the former Erin Foods site active again, having lain idle for so long.
Wesley Quirke, Baycross Developments, said “The project will rejuvenate Thurles, which is one of the best known towns in Ireland”. He further stated “The Business and Innovation Centre will guarantee additional jobs for Thurles and will be a major boost to the local economy”.
Ms. Laura Mateo from Castletown Capital said that they are very pleased to be involved in such an innovative project for Thurles, which opens up huge potential for the town in terms of attracting new business and creating jobs. She also stated “It is a pleasure to work on the Business and Innovation Centre project, in partnership with the Quirke family, as it is a development that will have a big impact on Thurles well into the future”.
Demolition of the former Erin Foods site is set to get underway immediately. Local business, Premier Engineering, who employ 40 people, will carry out this work with Company Director Adrian O’Keefe saying that they are really proud to be involved in this local project.
The old building contains a large amount of asbestos, hence the engagement of reputable specialist contractors, who will carry out the demolition and disposal of these materials to the highest International standards.
Completion of demolition work
The completion of demolition work is expected to take up to 12 weeks, followed by site preparation works and the commencement of construction of a new site entrance, forming the initial phase of the Inner Relief Road. As an additional feature of the project, significant improvement to the river walkway at the rear of the site will be carried out.
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