Major funding announcement for Leitrim projects welcomed locally

Almost €1 million in funding has been announced for four Leitrim projects under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.

The funding was confirmed by Minister Dara Calleary on December 22, providing a welcome Christmas boost for the four Leitrim communities set to benefit. In total, Leitrim has been allocated €966,801, with Keshcarrigan receiving the largest share of €500,000.

The funding will support the completion of phase two redevelopment works on the former Garda Barracks in Keshcarrigan, allowing the building to be brought into use as a multi-purpose facility for the local community.

More than four years ago, Keshcarrigan Development Association submitted an Expression of Interest under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2021, seeking funding to retain and repurpose the old Garda Barracks as a Community and Heritage Centre. That application was successful, and the contract for phase one was signed in September 2024.

Local councillor Gary Prior described the announcement as “fantastic news” for the committee and all those involved. “Great credit goes to the committee and to Leitrim County Council staff who lodged this application on behalf of Keshcarrigan,” said Cllr Prior.

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“Keshcarrigan needed that funding to get over the line. It’s great news and very welcome for them,” he added.

Additional funding includes €300,000 for enhancements to The Dock’s public realm. This project will feature biodiverse and sustainable landscaping, accessible seating suitable for small performances, restoration of the stone steps, and the secure replacement of the side gate.

Carrigallen has been allocated €139,705 for a Streetscape Enhancement Scheme aimed at revitalising the village’s appearance, fostering local pride, and making it a more vibrant and attractive place to live, work, and do business. Meanwhile, €27,096 has been awarded to Fenagh for the redevelopment and extension of the Fenagh Visitor Centre, strengthening its role as a cultural, educational, and recreational hub.

With three of the four successful projects located within the Ballinamore Municipal District, Cllr Ita Reynolds-Flynn welcomed the announcement. “I’m delighted to see €27,096 for the redevelopment and extension of the Fenagh Visitor Centre, alongside €139,705 for Carrigallen which will deliver a Streetscape Enhancement Scheme to revitalise the appearance of Carrigallen village, and a whopping €500,000 to complete phase 2 redevelopment works on the former Garda Barracks, for use as a multi-purpose facility for the local community,” she said.

“Finally, I wish to acknowledge the efforts of our local TD and Minister, Frank Feighan for assisting me in making the appropriate representations and lobbying Ministers Callery and Buttimer to ensure these local projects are funded successfully,” she added.

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Minister Frank Feighan also praised the dedication of local communities involved in securing the funding. “I am thrilled for the local committees, their endless meetings, form filling and fund raising has paid off,” he said.