The Irish national newspapers and RTÉ Television reported on the opening of the new Athlone Town Centre on Nov 1st 2007. This project is the single biggest regeneration project of its kind undertaken in Ireland and includes a 30,000 sq.m. shopping centre with 66 retail units, specialist shops, 148 apartments and will also feature a 4 star Sheraton Hotel, which is due to open April 2008.
The Irish Times reported that ‘ The Athlone Town Centre urban regeneration project was claimed by its developers to be among the five largest such urban redevelopment schemes in Europe
Designed by Murray Ó Laoire Architects, the centre was developed by Gallico Developments and built by JJ Rhatigan and Co. The new centre expects to generate 1,250 jobs when fully completed. The management of the centre reported a phenomenal footfall of over 40,000 visitors in its first two days. 'In terms of numbers we have surpassed all expectations and the feedback is great' said the Sunday Tribune quoting Gerry Mulcahy the ATC Commerical Manager.
This scheme has a major role in renewing the traditional centre of the historic Midland’s town while simultaneously being ‘stitched into the urban grain of the existing town centre.
John O'Sullivan of Gallico Developments said the new centre would "give shoppers an alternative to 'soulless' out-of-town shopping centres’".
Related News Item:
- Athlone Town Centre was presented with the Urban Design Award at the IPI National Planning Award 2008. The judges described the project as "a new urban quarter of exceptional architectural quality and coherence”... (more)
- The MÓLA designed Sheraton Athlone Hotel recently opened for guests, with some of its facilities becoming available on a phased basis... (more)