Conservation / Wildlife

Conservation

The town of Ennis evolved from medieval origins. Archaeological and architectural evidence shows that most of the town of Ennis existed before 1700. Although much alteration has taken place much of the structural fabric of the late medieval town still exists even if hidden behind more modern manifestation of shop fronts. The medieval street pattern of the town centre has survived the centuries and includes many buildings of significant architectural/historical merit.

Much has been done in the past decade to improve and enhance the built environment and to afford greater access to the public in order that it may be appreciated. Examples of this include Glor Irish Music Theatre. The Courthouse has been refurbished and floodlighting has been provided. The new development at Sheils is almost complete. The Cloister in Abbey Street has been completely refurbished.

Wildlife And Natural Amenities

Conservation of natural amenities and wildlife areas, encouragement of wildlife amenites, walks and nature trails, with appropriate access all form an important part of the Ennis Tidy Towns focus.

Here is a summary of some of the Projects undertaken this year.

Lees Road

Lees Road is an easy accessible, natural wildlife amenity situated about two miles from the centre of Ennis. The main aims and objectives in providing this space was

To enhance the wildlife and biodiversity value of the land;
Create interests in the wildlife and recreational facilities;
Provide walkways through woodlands including the provision of wheelchair access.
Bat boxes and bird boxes were erected on the site and badger sets on site left secluded and away from pathways. Information and directional signage were erected to guide the public through the area informing them of  the wildlife they were likely to see.
Information on specific animals, birds plants detailing how to identify them and interesting facts about their life cycle are featured on the signage.
A code of behaviour is outlined on the signs in relation to littering and the disturbance of wildlife.

There was concern in relation to threatened species such as long eared owl, badgers and bats The new work that was carried out had no negative impact on any of the protected species in the area. The aim was to enhance the site for the existing animals and make it suitable for other species to occupy the area.

The project has achieved the creation of a semi natural deciduous woodland habitat. It created huge awareness of the wildlife in an area relatively close to Ennis town.

This space is widely used and enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.