New Edenderry library project gets €12.2 million funding boost
Plans to develop a new community library and Arts base on a derelict site in the centre of Edenderry have today (Monday) been awarded funding of €12.25 million.
The Offaly project received the largest individual funding award among the 30 projects that were approved for grants announced today under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF).
The new community library and Arts base is planned for the former Tesco site at 33-34 JKL Street, next to the AIB Bank branch.
It's being developed by Offaly County Council and was given the go ahead under the local authority's Part 8 planning process at the beginning of the year.
The Department of Rural and Community Development said it was awarding funding of €12,256,727 towards the overall cost of the project, which is expected to be €15,320,909.
"This project will redevelop a derelict site to provide a new Community Library and Arts Base, pedestrian and cycle connections, improved public realm and parking," said the Department.
"The project will regenerate the town, enhancing its vibrancy and enabling people to live and work in a high quality environment."
A total of €164 million in funding nationally, for 30 projects under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, was announced this morning by Minister Heather Humphreys.
The Edenderry funding was welcomed by Offaly Minister of State Pippa Hackett and Councillor Mark Hackett, who described it as "another vital measure in the town's future development".
The Green Party Minister commented: "We all remember the derelict Tesco site in the centre of town, which stood there for what feels like a generation, including all through the lifespan of the Celtic Tiger.
"Due to the prominence of the location, it was a visible weight on the shoulders of a community working tirelessly to move into the future and create a thriving town for everyone living in the area.
"It's really significant that this town centre area will now be developed.
"This funding boost comes hot on the heels of the opening of Phase 2 of the inner relief road, and is part of this Government's commitment to revitalising the town centre and reclaiming it for people to live, work, learn and play."
Cllr Mark Hackett added: "Today's news is fantastic for Edenderry and the greater area. We are moving from 'rundown' and to 'regenerated' and this, together with the relief road, is only the start of the new Edenderry."
Cllr Hackett paid tribute to "all in Offaly County Council, and to Ms Sharon Kennedy, who has since moved on, for all the work on the Community Library."
He said funding announcements such as this one come after many years of preparation.
"It shows what is possible. I have a great feeling of optimism and confidence for the future of Edenderry, and look forward to doing everything I can to get behind that mission," he concluded.