Killeigh community centre work to start early in new year

The new community centre planned for Killeigh is expected to begin construction early in the new year, according to the local community centre development association.

The committee has been working to advance the project for the last four years, after a need was identified for a new community centre, on the site of the old Macra Hall, to help enhance the economic and social life of the area.

While the project was approved for some LEADER funding, significant local fundraising was also required to help meet the €850,000 cost of the first phase of the development, which will see the creation of a fully-functioning multi space centre.

The major fundraiser for the project is the Killeigh Community Centre Development Association's 'Win A House in Enfield' draw, which was launched in June. The draw itself is set to take place on January 3, and prize is a newly built A-rated three bedroom house in Enfield valued at €355,000.

In October, the committee decided to give the lucky winner the option of taking a cash prize of €300,000 or the house, saying this would help widen the interest in the draw and maximise the returns for the community centre.

The community centre will replace the former Macra Hall, which was built in 1965 and was once a hub of Macra and community activity but sadly became run-down in recent years.

The committee said the design for the new centre was finalised, the drawings and specifications were completed, and the project was 'shovel ready' once the funding is in place.