Temporary site for Richard Harris statue after planning appeal

The promoters of plans to commemorate Richard Harris in Kilkee are ready to defy the planning laws by erecting a statue to the Hollywood actor in the west Clare resort.

Last month, Clare County Council granted planning permission for plans to celebrate the late Hollywood actor in Kilkee, in spite of opposition from local people.

However, Kilkee resident Maureen McMahon yesterday appealed the decision to An Bord Pleanála. "I have no objection to the Richard Harris statue, but I do object to where it is being put as it is a residential area."

In her initial objection, Ms McMahon said: "The proposed statue is 20 yards from my house. I do not want a statue or anything like it erected in front of my home. This proposed statue would certainly interfere with my view and attract crowds of people who may be undesirable."

The statue was to be erected in Wellington Square. It depicts Harris playing racquet ball in memory of the Limerick man winning a racquet ball competition four times in a row in Kilkee, where he used spend much of his summer holidays.

However, project director Manuel di Lucia said the statue will now be erected on private property on a temporary basis on Kilkee's cliff walk, over the well-known Pollock Holes.

Mr di Lucia said that he was not concerned about any planning issues that may arise until An Bord Pleanála delivers its decision on the appeal.

He confirmed that "one major Hollywood star" will be in attendance for the unveiling at the end of September.

"We are very disappointed that the appeal has been lodged. I'm absolutely gutted. It should go up on Wellington Square because it was near there that Richard played racquet ball."