I have raised the issue of showcasing the built heritage at the old Library Shop Street, Tuam.

I understand that the OPW are planning to cover up the old Bank of Ireland stone carving on the front election of the Old Library at Shop Street, Tuam

“They plan to erect a modern sign on top of the stone carved sign. The new sign is a Department of Social Welfare sign which is not keeping with the planning permission received”.

“I have been contacted by many locals who are concerned that we will lose an iconic feature on the protected building.

I confirm that I raised the matter with the Office of Public Works and the conservation officer in Galway County Council as they own the building and are the planning authority.

As part of the planning report in 2018 it was stated that the refurbishment of the building would include the removal of existing cement render fascia, original sandstone fascia to be revealed, repaired and cleaned I am adamant that this is work that has to be done to comply with planning.

A sign can be erected on another elevation and somewhere else on the front elevation. It is important that an organisation such as the OPW respect our built heritage and help showcase it on buildings within Tuam”.