Nenagh prepares for heritage week 2025 and continues to build out it’s tourism offering

Work is progressing steadily in Nenagh’s Historic and Cultural Quarter, with a recent grant of €37,500 secured under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme. The funding will support conservation works on the windows and doors of the Governor’s House, one of the town’s architectural gems. With additional backing through the General Municipal Allocation (GMA), full completion of these works is now within reach.

Efforts are also continuing behind the scenes to secure further funding for other proposals in the Quarter, as national schemes become available. One such opportunity is the Town & Village Renewal Scheme, for which Nenagh has already completed an initial Expression of Interest.

A full application is now being prepared for submission by 25th July, focusing on the refurbishment of the historic three-storey Gaol Block. This would mark a significant step in bringing the landmark back into public use. Planning permission for the proposed works is already in place under Part 8, having been developed through funding from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (Category 2).

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Meanwhile, over in Dromineer, there was a milestone moment last week as construction officially began on the “Platforms for Growth” tourism development. A ceremonial event on 24th July marked the occasion, with contractors now actively on site and structural work underway.

Accessibility is also front of mind. An assessment has already taken place, and Fáilte Ireland has given in-principle approval for funding up to €161,000 for a series of works. These include an induction loop in the Water Activity Centre, new footpaths, pedestrian crossings, a bike stand, seating, and resurfacing and line-marking of the car park. Discussions at District level are ongoing to finalise delivery plans.

As these larger projects unfold, the Nenagh Tourist Office is turning its attention to this year’s National Heritage Week, running from 16th to 25th August. A packed programme of events is being organised to celebrate local history, culture, and creativity.

Highlights will include:

Foundations of a Mural: Watch the day-by-day creation of a Shane MacGowan mural unfold on screen at the Tourist Office, culminating in a special launch event.

Guided Tours: Explore the Governor’s House, Gatehouse, Nenagh Courthouse, and historic town sites with expert guides.

Lectures: Dr. John Reynolds will speak on Michael Collins and the Foundation of An Garda Síochána, while Michael Reynolds will deliver a talk on The History of Nenagh Courthouse over 180 Years.

Family-Friendly Events: Irish legends storytime at the Nenagh Heritage Centre and The Big Dig—a hands-on Viking workshop at the Courthouse Carpark.

Talks and Demonstrations: Peter Ward of Country Choice will present The Foundations of Irish Cuisine, and Kevin Whelan will explore The Influence of the Normans on Nenagh at the Castle.

Live Music: Melodies Beneath the Keep—a lunchtime concert in the Castle Garden—will round off the festivities in style.

Full details will be available closer to the date, and locals are encouraged to contact the Tourist Office with any queries. Looking further ahead, the team is also in talks with the Alzheimer’s Society to host an exhibition later this year.