Call for limit on new vape shops in Mayo town

There are too many vape shops in Castlebar according to a local councillor who has called for the council to prevent more opening in the county town.

The number of vape and charity shops in Castlebar was raised by Independent councillor Harry Barrett who believes that there should be a limit on the amount allowed to open in the town.

“I am of the view and people who have rang me are of the view we have had enough of vape shops and charity shops and we should limit the number of them in the town going forward.

“Particularly vape shops which don't add anything to the town. I understand the need for charity shops which do a good job but there has to be balance and diversity in what we offer in Castlebar in terms of our commercial situation and I would like a limit,” he told the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council.

READ: 'Onwards and upwards' for Bohola Mayo GAA development

David Mellett, Head of the Municipal District told the meeting that there was nothing in place to stop someone opening another vape shop in Castlebar if the building was already in commercial use and it would require a change in national legislation.

Independent councillor Michael Kilcoyne pointed out that if there were no vape shops and charity shops there would be a number of vacant buildings in Castlebar.