Future of quay building in Wexford in doubt

The possible demolition of a historic building on Paul Quay in the heart of Wexford's tourist area has caused concern in the town.

The contractors for developers F.G. & P.J. Stafford, Wexford Project Management, began to remove asbestos from the roof of the building on Saturday. The project manager, Mr John Atkinson, said no decision had been made on whether to demolish the building, although another building in the area was knocked down after roof asbestos had been removed. He believed planning permission was not needed for demolition "but if it is there is no question of us not complying with the planning laws".

But the developer, Mr Gerard Stafford, said he understood planning permission had been received from the local authority "to demolish buildings at Paul Quay and that is being done at the moment".

A local businessman, Mr Oliver Canty, said he feared the building could be torn down today. "That would be such a shame because it's worth preserving. It would make an ideal tourist office." Known as the Old Mill House, the five-storey building was similar to a corner shop in the town which was to be demolished by the same developers until the Heritage Council declared it listed.

Ms Anna Fenlon, a councillor, said demolition of the building "would be very worrying, especially without anyone being informed".