Investment in three Mayo projects to tackle dereliction and vacancy

INVESTMENT has been announced under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme that will see three old and derelict buildings repurposed for community use in Mayo.

The projects are as follows.

Charlestown: Purchase of the former Broadway Restaurant building for use as a multi-purpose community space.

Bellacorrick: Purchase of the old garda barracks for use as a community hub for informal gatherings, a community gym and a remote working hub.

Louisburgh: Purchase of the former HSE centre for use as Louisburgh Area Men's Shed.

Minister Heather Humphreys has announced an investment of over €4.5 million nationally to tackle dereliction and vacancy in rural Ireland.

Deputy Alan Dillon described the scheme as 'a breath of fresh air for our rural towns and villages'.

“The repurposing of old buildings for 21st century use will benefit rural communities across the country,” he commented.

“I am delighted to see such a diverse range of buildings being brought back into use, from former garda stations and schools to post offices and parish halls.”

Deputy Michael Ring said the announcement represents the second year of investment under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme’s Building Acquisition Measure, which is designed to bring vacant and derelict properties back into use in our town and village centres. The investment in these three projects in Mayo will bring new life to these run-down buildings and turn them into facilities which will benefit communities for generations to come.

“It is vital that we continue to put funding in to our rural communities at every suitable opportunity. It is wonderful to see vacant buildings being brought back to life and used for the common good,” he commented.