Run-down and derelict sites around the city of Limerick should be subject to the full rigours of the existing laws.

According to Limerick's business Chamber, the byelaws in relation to derelict sites need to be vigorously enacted even where this is made more difficult where it is hard to establish ownership.

The body has said that a mechanism must be developed to enable the Council to enforce the legislation that is in place, to ensure that the visual appearance of the city is improved.

Seeking a fillip for the area and a kick-start for the beleaguered construction sector in repairing and refurbishment, the Chamber's concerns are not reserved solely for the city's more ugly derelict buildings, but also expressed concerns about the existing architectural heritage.

Referring to Limerick's stock of Georgian buildings, it said: "It is outstanding by international standards, and the current level of deterioration and dereliction of some of this stock is not acceptable."

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According to a recent report in the Limerick Post newspaper, the Chamber is also calling for the removal of the glut of unused business signage on vacant and derelict buildings throughout the city.

"This signage is unsightly and bye-laws should be enforced to ensure that it is removed, and also to ensure that premises throughout the city are maintained in accordance with regulations."

The spokesperson also acknowledged that with the current funding pressure facing local government, it might even be feasible to enter into partnership with Eco-Unesco to run educational awareness programmes or to link in with the Department of the Environment's ENFO programme.

Limerick Chamber is one of the five oldest Chambers of Commerce in the British Isles, known initially as the Society of Merchants of the Staple whose origins trace back to the Guild of Merchants in the early 17th Century.

The Limerick Chamber covers Limerick City, Limerick County, Shannon and South East Clare and is affiliated to Chambers Ireland, which links us to a network of some 60 chambers with 13,000 members around the country.

Just last month, it launched proposals, including an innovative grant rebate scheme for new businesses taking up vacant units, aimed at reinvigorating the Limerick city centre.

The proposals were revealed in a report carried out by the Chamber into challenges facing city centre businesses and how these could be overcome.

The Chamber report highlights the ongoing struggle of businesses to meet daily outgoings as they are being forced to cut costs across the board.

(BMcC/GK)