Longford businesses continue to battle back following devastating town centre fire

Grafters Hair Salon was one of the businesses forced to close its premises in the aftermath of the Grafton Court fire.

Owner Pauline Coady Belton explained to the Leader what the challenges have been, one month on from the fire.

Pauline has relocated her business to the Grafters Academy building on Main St.

However, the Ardagh native is hopeful that this will only be a temporary measure and she is currently trying to locate a more suitable premises.

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“I am looking for a ground floor premises (Grafters Academy is located on the first floor). It is a tricky situation, as I am still dealing with the insurance company and I also need to look at the costings of a potential new building,” Pauline explained.

Pauline has been able to re-employ the 13 staff that were laid off following the fire (albeit some are on reduced hours).

However, the Grafters Academy building has restrictions. “We don’t get a walk in trade. In addition, hairdressing courses are run from the building and as a result, we will have to close on a Monday and Tuesday of each week,” she stated.

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“We used to be open seven days a week and we had a good walk-in trade,” Pauline added.

Finding a new premises is proving difficult.

“It is important to get a building with the proper water and fit out,” she stated, in relation to the search for more suitable premises.

However, despite the challenges that Pauline’s business has faced, she is heartened by the support she has received.

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“We have very loyal customers. I am also dependent on my team, who have also shown great loyalty,” she stated.

Another business affected by the fire was Stephen Olwell Opticians. Similar to Grafters, he has found temporary premises, but is looking for something more permanent.

“We are lucky to have been able to move into the premises on Ballymahon St. that used to be the Spa, over Padraig Ward’s pharmacy,” he explained.

“From this week, we will be able to provide an increased number of services,” he stated.

“We are very lucky to have these premises. However, we are looking for more suitable premises. We need premises that are accessible for wheelchair users and others with mobility issues,” he explained.

Since the fire, Stephen has adopted a positive attitude to dealing with the aftermath of the fire.

“It is all about moving forward. This period has undoubtedly been a setback to our business. However, the only way to look at it is as an opportunity,” he commented.

Stephen has three employees and he praised their contribution during a stressful time.

“I haven’t had to lay off any of my staff. Staff make a business. My staff have worked above and beyond during this period,” he explained.

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