Former Mayo courthouse set for new lease of life as heritage centre

THE former courthouse in Westport is set to get a new lease of life as a heritage centre.

The building is to be leased to Clew Bay Heritage Centre CLG, who are currently based at Westport Quay.

Lying vacant for a long number of years now since court business moved to Castlebar, local councillors welcomed the positive news and supported the proposed lease at their monthly municipal meeting.

Mayo County Council, who own the building, which is a protected structure, sought expressions of interest from potential future occupants this summer. Thirteen responses were received.

In a report, councillors were told Clew Bay Heritage was recommended as their proposal will contribute positively, both socially and economically, to Westport town and its environs.

The proposal will create a prominent heritage centre, located in the centre of Westport, that will add to the town’s tourism and heritage offering.

It is proposed to enter into an initial two-year lease agreement.with a proposed rent of €100 per annum for this initial term. This initial lease will allow the heritage group to undertake structural and architectural surveys on the building, identify sources of possible renovation funding and advance plans for its future social and economic use.

The council agrees in principle to bringing forward a subsequent longer-term lease up to 25 years, pending all milestones/agreements are achieved and they are satisfied with the proposed longer-term use of the building.

Councillor Brendan Mulroy said the news had to be welcomed and he wished everyone involved every luck with the project.

It would be great to see the building coming back into use, said Councillor Peter Flynn. As a heritage town, Westport needs a strong heritage centre and this would be a huge addition.

The councillor sought clarification about the parking to the east of the building, wondering if it stayed under the council's remit could it be used as part of the public realm around the courthouse. A small market space might be something to develop there, he suggested.