No shoppers, it will not be Zara.
The Wedgwood-blue Treasure Chest building on the corner of William Street and Castle Street is being transformed into a Mountain Warehouse.
The existing Mountain Warehouse outdoor kit shop on Mainguard Street will close. The chain is an independent family-owned outdoor ware specialist, specialising in adventure clothing, equipment and footwear.
The Treasure Chest was operated and owned by high-profile retailer Mary Bennett for 60 years, until closing in September, 2023. It became one of the most iconic buildings in the city and was visited by dozens of high profile Hollywood stars while holidaying in Ireland.
Its closure three years ago was hailed as the end of an era for Galway retailing and there was much speculation as to who would occupy the space in the heart of the city.
It is understood some legal issues on Castle Street, leading up to Edward Square, delayed plans, but these are now resolved.
H&M was looking at the four-storey building, while Inditix, which owns Zara, previously told the Advertiser it had no plans to come to Galway “at this time”. So maybe there is still hope?
