Green light for Clara shop expansion

Plans for an expansion of the popular Mace shop in Clara have been given the go-ahead by Offaly County Council.

The owners of the premises, Lambes Oil Limited, earlier this year sought permission to change the use of part of the adjoining stores to their existing premises at Charlestown, on the Kilbeggan Road out of Clara, to facilitate an expansion of the shop.

The plans include new toilet facilities, storage and new deli area; relocation of the off-licence, stairwell and staff facilities; and the provision of an associated car park to the rear of the adjoining Clara Depot building

The council subsequently sought further information on the plan, including requesting changes to a proposed emergency exit onto the Kilbeggan Road, and an entrance from the Bridge Street direction.

The applicant submitted further information recently, and the council granted approval on October 1, subject to ten conditions.