ON our edition dated July 16 last, it was exclusively reported by Andrew Carey, on page one, that approaches had been made to wealthy Limerick business people to assist with funding for a proposed clean- up of the ill-fated Opera Centre. It was revealed that talks had been held between interested parties, and to which JP McManus was invited. Dr Hugh Maguire of the Hunt Museum stated at the time that it would be of great benefit to the city if a clean up operation was put in place.
Well, it emerged this week that McManus, through his charitable foundation, is making such funds available.
The decision had been taken following talks with the developers of the site.
According to a spokesperson for the foundation, their involvement will not make for a permanent solution, just that they want to make the city look good.
There is to be an emphasis on carrying out improvement to the lower sections of buildings on Patrick Street, Rutland Street and Ellen Street.
The amount being donated has not been disclosed.
The Opera Centre site, currently on the books of NAMA, developed into an eyesore within one year of plans to develop a multi-million euro shopping centre.
Property owners in the three streets had benefited handsomely, with huge sums paid out to finalise deals, some of which had been ongoing for years.
