North Leitrim project receives funding for design of future multipurpose hub
Rural Regeneration funding brings Kinlough closer to a modern multipurpose centre serving people of all ages with aims to support education, recreation, and community engagement for locals.
Over half a million euro has been allocated to the Arroo Centre in Kinlough under the Rural Regeneration Development Fund (RRDF). This funding forms part of a €20.5 million national investment package supporting projects across the country.
The Arroo Centre, formerly Kerr’s building on Barrack Street, will be transformed into a multipurpose community hub providing a space for people of all ages, young and old, to come together.
The €572,334 allocation will cover design costs, environmental and investigative works including surveys and ground testing, all essential steps to progress to the Part VIII design stage. This will pave the way for a multi-million-euro project application in the coming months.
Local councillor Justin Warnock has welcomed the announcement, noting that there is currently no similar facility available for the hundreds of young people in Kinlough.
“The Council has a lot of work ready to go on this and is very proactive in it,” said Cllr Warnock.
In addition to providing a space for young people, there are plans to include an educational element within the building. Cllr Warnock explained there are hopes that the Education Training Board will run further education courses there. “It’s in early stages but I’d be very hopeful,” he added. The centre will also feature a library for online working and other community uses.
Kinlough is among the fastest-growing areas in Leitrim, with its population rising from 285 to over 1,200 in the past 25 years, many of them young people.
Sligo-Leitrim TD Frank Feighan has also welcomed the funding for the Arroo Centre. “I am confident that this funding of €572,334 will help rejuvenate the local community in Kinlough,” Deputy Feighan said.
Commending Leitrim County Council for their efforts in bringing the application forward, he added, “When complete, these projects will leave a lasting difference in Leitrim and will help to continue to make our towns and villages great places to live, work and raise a family.”
Minister Marian Harkin described the Arroo Centre project as the beginning of a “larger vision” for Kinlough. “This is just the beginning of the development of a space that will serve young people, older people, and the wider community – a place of gathering, connection, support and recreation right in the heart of the village.
“As Kinlough continues to expand, so too does the requirement for infrastructure that meets the needs of the community, and this project is a much-needed boost step in addressing that need.
“It is another exciting day for Kinlough – and just the beginning of what will undoubtedly be an exciting new chapter for the entire area,” Minister Harkin concluded.