Studying historical photos of Roscommon town from the National Library Archive exhibited the former vibrant life of the market square. It seems a shame now that the space in front of the prominent Bank of Ireland building is dominated by parked cars. Is their a vision for this space that calls to mind the former dynamics of this space and can benefit the community on both market and non-market days? A sketch scenario is proposed whereby subtle interventions could create a space for people to gather and meet or to display things whilst also providing a structure of sorts for the market when it is taking place.
Past - Market Square, Main Street Roscommon 1880-1914National Library of Ireland - Archive
Present - Market Square, Main Street Roscommon October 2010
Future?
The space really seems to be contained and held by the buildings in the archive photo. Perhaps the lack of street furniture helps to strengthen the sense of clear space? The people, cattle and transport are free to roam, undirected by road markings and bollards. Orla
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