Letterkenny Chamber is bidding to breath new life into the town’s Main Street by opening up a series of ‘pop-up shops’ in vacant premises.
Main Street, Letterkenny has many vacant buildings.
The initiative is aimed at landlords who want to showcase their premises to prospective tenants.
The plan is to turn the vacant premises into all sorts of temporary shops which can be used by artists, food producers and small home-based businesses.
At present many vacant shops have been painted with fake shop fronts but the chamber said this does not add to the economic vibrancy of the town.
John Watson, President of Letterkenny Chamber said the Chamber is always interested in improving the business environment in Letterkenny and we have been discussing empty properties and the best use for them.
“This initiative has the possibility of adding to the economic activity on the Main Street and other shopping areas as well an improving the possibility of a long term tenant.
“We hope to attract local entrepreneurs who want to try out new ideas, offer new products and attract new customers and in doing so generate footfall for neighbouring outlets. We have seen the idea in other towns and Letterkenny as a whole will benefit from the scheme.
“At this stage we are open to all types of opportunities such as local artists, local food and craft producers and anyone working in a home based business that might like to try out retail. We have spoken to some landlords and some possible tenants already and there is definitely an interest. We are excited by this new venture and are keen to get it up and running as soon as possible.”
At this stage Letterkenny Chamber is appealing to landlords with empty commercial space who would like to make it available for temporary use.
They would also like to hear from local entrepreneurs, social enterprises and community groups who would like to try this temporary retail or exhibition opportunity. In the first instance people should contact the chamber directly on 074 9124866 or email toni@letterkennychamber.com.