Donegal Town's Diamond is undergoing a major transformation

Work has begun on developing the Diamond in Donegal Town as a public space designed to support the creative, cultural, tourism and hospitality sector.

It comes as the community is putting final preparations in place to celebrate the town’s 550th anniversary. 

Funding of €250,000 for Donegal Town outdoor spaces was announced in mid-2021 when the region was beginning a slow recovery from the effects of the Covid-19 restrictions.

Donegal Town was chosen as the main beneficiary in the county for this tourism economy support funding. 

There followed a period of planning and public consultation, with community groups, businesses and individuals having their say. Young people in particular were encouraged to engage with the consultation process for plans which should enhance the town’s attractiveness as a place to live, visit or do business for many years to come. 

The work on the Diamond which is being carried out by Axis and overseen by Paul Doherty Architects began on Monday, February 12. It is the first phase of the Donegal Town Pier and Diamond Masterplan, which also has input from  Feaver and Co Planning and Environmental Consultants, and Marcus Flannery Landscape Architect.

At the February meeting of the Municipal District (MD) of Donegal, Cllr Micheál Naughton (FF) welcomed news from Director Designate of Donegal MD Garry Martin that work had begun on the Diamond.

Regarding the 550th anniversary plans, he said: “They have a launch date of February 29, so every bit of support or help that could be got for them would be very much appreciated.”