The clear-out of one of Buncrana’s most precious buildings is to begin this week, it has been revealed.
The people of Buncrana were stunned to see the iconic Buncrana Ballroom gutted in a blaze in February, which also tore through John Barr’s drapery store.
The loss of the popular Plaza Ballroom and concert venue was seen as a major blow to Buncrana’s entertainment scene, with many other spin-off businesses said to be affected by the closure at the time.
It is understood that a major operation will begin on Monday or Tuesday this week to begin clearing out debris that has laid in the premises for the last six months – with the aim of the building re-opening its doors in February next year.
The clear-out, which will be controlled through the rear of the building to avoid traffic congestion on Buncrana’s main street, will take up to a month to complete.
Speaking to Donegal Daily, councillor Jack Murray said it was a welcoming development for the people of Buncrana.
“The Plaza has been greatly missed by the people of Buncrana, it is the centre of this community and has been for a long time.
“There were functions, fundraisers and nights out for the people of Buncrana and around Inishowen.
“And in the most immediate terms, you want the roads opened again because it has really impacted on businesses and people that want to be able to access the town.
“But in the longer term, you want the Plaza up and running again and returned to its former glory.”
