Project to help historic Mayo village reach full potential

An enhancement scheme in the historic village of Straide is set to get underway shortly.

The work will include under-grounding overhead power lines, provision of new public lighting and construction of new surfaces and paving.

It will also involve the creation of new grassed areas, repair work on the village green, the designation of a disabled parking space, provision of riverside railing and street furniture as well as the removal of clutter, planters and large areas of uneven stone paving.

Under the Town and Village Scheme 2020, the project will enhance the Michael Davitt Museum's setting and village landscape.

A spokesperson for Mayo County Council said it is felt that the museum’s setting and consequently its connection to the adjacent Parish Church and village requires enhancement.

“This is particularly true of its legibility, its entrance and approach as viewed from the N58 Foxford/Ballyvary Road, lack of public lighting, basic standard of its connecting walkways, set down and overall visual aesthetic.

“The breadth of the scheme will encompass an approach that is complimentary to all other core objectives, including the promotion of Straide’s profile as well as adopting best practice conservation and biodiversity values and develop an all-village working partnership.”

Welcoming the news, Councillor Donna Sheridan said Straide has such huge historical significance.

“Straide can become a visitor destination experience of the highest quality and a place that will contribute to our historical, cultural and educational heritage.

“Yvonne and all the team in the Michael Davitt museum do such fantastic work as do the community groups in the area.

"This project will help the area reach its full potential.”

In a statement, Councillor Ger Deere paid tribute to Mayo County Council and the Straide community on the initiative.