The Ardmore Farmers Market, which has become an integral part of the community, is facing a potential threat due to a proposed access road set to cut through the field where the market is held. Local organisers and residents are voicing their concerns over the impact this project could have on the market, which draws families and locals every Sunday.

While the Ardmore Farmers Market organisers have stated that they have no objection to a road being constructed through the field, they firmly believe the current plans are unfeasible. They have urged Waterford City and County Council to reconsider the positioning of the road, suggesting it should be placed at the bottom of the field rather than the middle. The market is concerned that the planned route would disrupt the event’s atmosphere and pose potential safety risks to visitors.

“We don’t have an issue with a road going through the field,” said one of the market organisers, who spoke to WLR. “But this is a unique space that has been enjoyed by so many families over the years. It’s a safe space where you can relax with the kids knowing they are safe on the grass, free to run and play without fear of traffic or a hard landing, surrounded by local people and local producers. A truly wholesome atmosphere. Community spirit at its best, a village coming together every Sunday and enjoying each other’s company.”

The controversy surrounding the proposed road has ignited widespread concern among Ardmore’s residents. Many have questioned why the road needs to run through the middle of such an important community space, with some suggesting that the plans should be revisited to ensure the market’s future is protected.

The market’s location, which has long been an open grassy area, is viewed as crucial to its appeal.

It is understood that Waterford City and County Council does not own the land in question, and while the farmers market organisers have attempted to engage with the council, there has been little movement on revising the current plans. With the project set to move forward unless a solution is found, many in the community are calling on local political representatives to raise their voices and advocate for the future of the market.

As of now, the community is waiting to see if the plans for the road will be altered to accommodate the longstanding market. The hope is that a compromise can be reached that allows both the development of necessary infrastructure and the preservation of the market’s unique charm and community spirit.

It’s understood the construction of the road forms part of the Town Centre First Plan as announced by the Government in 2022.

Waterford Council response

Waterford Council responded to WLR saying”Waterford City and County Council, through the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) process, acquired part of the land, to facilitate the construction of the relief road off the R673 regional road.

“The remaining land remains in the gift of the owners. Funding has been allocated to create a market space, but only by agreement with landowners.”

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