Leitrim secures almost €1 million for town and village regeneration projects

Funding has been announced for four projects in Leitrim under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. The funding aims to tackle vacancy and dereliction, stimulate economic and social regeneration in town centres, and support pre-development costs to help communities prepare applications for future funding calls.

In Leitrim, €300,000 has been awarded for the enhancement of The Dock’s public realm. The project will include biodiverse, sustainable landscaping, accessible seating suitable for small performances, the restoration of stone steps, and the secure replacement of the side gate.

Carrigallen will receive €139,705 to deliver a Streetscape Enhancement Scheme designed to revitalise the appearance of the village, instil local pride, and make it a more vibrant and attractive place to live, work, and do business.

The largest allocation to any Leitrim town under this announcement is €500,000 for Keshcarrigan. This funding will be used to complete phase two redevelopment works on the former Garda Barracks in Keshcarrigan, enabling its use as a multi-purpose facility for the local community.

Finally, €27,096 has been allocated to Fenagh for the redevelopment and extension of the Fenagh Visitor Centre, enhancing its role as a cultural, educational, and recreational hub.

READ NEXT: Leitrim woman with 106 previous convictions stole over €300 of cosmetics from pharmacy

Speaking on the announcement, Cllr Gary Prior welcomed the funding for the four Leitrim towns and villages. In relation to the €500,000 awarded to Keshcarrigan, Cllr Prior described it as “fantastic news” for the committee and everyone involved.

“Great credit goes to the committee and to Leitrim County Council staff who lodged this application on behalf of Keshcarrigan,” said Cllr Prior.

“Keshcarrigan needed that funding to get over the line. It’s great news and very welcome for them,” he added.

The Keshcarrigan Development Association has been working to retain the Garda Barracks in the village as a community and heritage centre, having first submitted an expression of interest for funding under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme in 2021.

Today’s funding announcement was made by the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, with a total of €26 million allocated to 116 projects nationwide.

READ NEXT: Planning permission granted for major residential unit development in Leitrim town