New site needed for circus visits to Mayo county town

A new site is needed for when the circus comes to Castlebar.

Councillor Ger Deere says the local military barracks is the ideal venue.

Currently the circus sets up on a site on the Milebush Road, with the next one planned for this Easter.

Not for the first time, Councillor Deere has described this location as 'unsuitable' and he previously raised concern two years ago at a municipal district meeting.

The circus and carnivals are a great tradition, said Councillor Deere, but the Milebush Road is not a suitable venue with traffic a huge concern.

Everyone wants to see the circus coming to town but health and safety has to be a priority, he added.

Castlebar Military Barracks is owned by the council and is an ideal venue, Councillor Deere pointed out, in close proximity to safe parking and the town centre itself.

Several events have been held at the military barracks in recent years and elected members are pushing management to accommodate the circus there or find an alternative site if it's not deemed suitable.