PICTURES: Former Leitrim barracks repurposed as a valuable community facility

The Barracks Dromahair, which received €426,590 under the Town and Village and Community Recognition Funds, has been described as a ‘transformative project’ at its official opening.

USE THE ARROWS OR CLICK NEXT TO SEE MORE PHOTOS

Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin, who performed the official opening said: “This transformative project has refurbished Dromahair Garda Station, repurposing the building to serve the village in an entirely different way. It provides meeting spaces for local community groups where events can be hosted, and connections can be made”. 

The Barracks Project promotes the regeneration of Dromahair through the complete refurbishment of the once derelict and disused building. This work not only restored the building to its former glory but gives the whole community of Dromahair and wider hinterland a valuable community facility, which will meet the needs and aspirations of a growing, diverse population for many years to come.

The Barracks which stood vacant for over 10 years, has undergone a transformative redevelopment led by Dromahair Development Association/Tidy Towns, preserving its historic architecture while adapting the site for modern use. The revitalized space now features meeting and activity spaces; kitchen and men’s shed and will host a range of activities and services for residents of Dromahair.

READ MORE: PICTURES: Spacious bungalow in Leitrim countryside with over an acre

Cathaoirleach Councillor Paddy Farrell stated that The Barracks is a great example of a strong community effort and commended Dromahair Development Association/Tidy Towns for their leadership and vision in driving the project forwards.  He acknowledged the critical support from the Department of Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht in bringing the project from vision to reality.

David Minton, Director of Service, highlighted the significance of the funding allocations made by Minister Dara Calleary. He noted that the contributions through both the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and the Community Recognition Fund were instrumental in bringing the project to life and ensuring its long-term impact.

He extended his sincere thanks to everyone who played a role in bringing the project to fruition, including Niall Kelly Contractor and his team, and engineers Francis Davitt & Eugene O Neill, for their outstanding work in bringing this project to its successfulcompletion.  

He concluded that The Barracks would stand as a lasting resource for the people of Dromahair for generations to come and that the council looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with local communities in the future.