LABOUR Party councillor Joe Leddin believes that the former Ulster Bank building at the corner of O’Connell Street and Glenthworth Street should be redeveloped for residential use.
Cllr Leddin takes the view the the building, which has been in commercial use and home to Ulster Bank for many years, could now contribute to the ongoing efforts to convert commercial premises for city living as the city centre site is currently for sale.
“There are several public and private redevelopment projects underway in the city, including many Georgian buildings such as the recently opened apartments on Newenham Street to be managed by Novas,” Cllr Leddin told the Limerick Post.
“Limerick City and County Council are redeveloping the former fire station buildings on Thomas Street and the former County library on O’Connell Street for apartment living. As a Council, we must continue to support the owners of these buildings who are willing and interested in residential projects that offer the potential to increase the numbers of people living in the heart of our city.
“In many cases the redevelopment or conversion projects are complex in terms of adhering to conservation and protection orders and meeting fire safety standards. Walking through the city and seeing lights on up along all storeys in buildings gives real meaning to the concept of a living city.
“The sale of the Ulster Bank building – which in terms of square footage is substantial in size – is only one of many buildings that can contribute to our objective as a council in creating a vibrant and living city,” he concluded.
