Independent representative McMyler calls for a new Creative Arts Centre in Buncrana

Independent community representative Adrian McMyler has renewed calls for the establishment of a dedicated Creative Arts Hub in Buncrana, highlighting the pressing need for a central, purpose-built space to support the town’s flourishing artistic and cultural community.

Adrian says Buncrana and the wider Inishowen area are home to an exceptional concentration of creative activity, including three thriving theatre groups, two brilliant schools with great talent, numerous dance, drama, and singing schools, talented musicians, skilled visual artists, and a vibrant network of community groups.

Despite this strong cultural ecosystem, many organisations face ongoing challenges accessing rehearsal spaces, storage facilities, and proper technical environments needed to grow and showcase their work.

“There is no shortage of creativity in Buncrana – only a shortage of space,” McMyler explains. “Our local groups are doing incredible work, but many of them are struggling without proper facilities. A Creative Arts Hub would transform the landscape for everyone involved in the arts locally.”

McMyler pointed to successful examples across the country where cultural hubs have made an immeasurable difference. The Regional Cultural Centre in Letterkenny stands as a leading model, offering performance spaces, galleries, studios, and technical resources that have attracted national recognition while providing essential support to local artists. Meanwhile, community-focused spaces such as Axis Ballymun, Sample Studios Cork, and The Dock in Carrick-on-Shannon have helped revitalise towns and cities by nurturing creativity, hosting events, and stimulating local economic activity.

“We can see the proof right across Ireland,” McMyler added. “Purpose-built creative hubs strengthen communities, support local talent, and boost tourism. There is absolutely no reason Buncrana shouldn’t have one too.”

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With Buncrana chosen as a Night-Time Economy pilot town and experiencing a continued rise in tourism, McMyler believes the timing is ideal.

He feels that a Creative Arts Hub would act as a cultural anchor, enabling more shows, exhibitions, youth programmes, workshops, and year-round events – all of which would bring footfall, investment, and vibrancy to the local economy.

McMyler is now calling on the government, Donegal County Council, and the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media to recognise the urgent need and work collaboratively to identify funding streams and a viable location.

“I am urging the government and the Minister for Culture to prioritise this project,” he said. “Buncrana deserves equal access to the kind of facilities that other towns in Donegal and across Ireland already benefit from. An Arts Hub would uplift our community, create opportunities for young people, and help shape the future cultural identity of Inishowen.”