'Landmark' Carlow building to be transformed into 'vibrant' shared space

A “landmark” building in Carlow is set to be transformed into a “vibrant shared space” by Carlow County Council.

The former Bank of Ireland building in Carlow Town will be renovated and refurbished, giving it a “new purpose at the heart of Carlow's Cultural Quarter.”

“As a protected structure with significant historical and architectural value, the building will be transformed into a vibrant shared space for the community and the local authority, helping to support a more inclusive, connected and thriving town centre,” the Carlow Public Participation Network (PPN) said in a post on Facebook.

“The project is about much more than restoring a building. It is an opportunity to create a lasting community asset that celebrates Carlow's heritage while contributing to the town's social, cultural and economic development for years to come,” it added.

Carlow County Council wants to share the project journey and hear locals’ views.

Feedback and ideas will help to inform the final design, ensuring the building meets the needs of the community.

“We are all aware there is a lack of community space in Carlow so your input is very valuable,” the Carlow PPN said.

€3.9 million in funding has been allocated for the project.

It’s being provided through the Government’s THRIVE scheme (Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme), co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme 2021–2027.

The project will focus on restoring the building’s architectural features, including façades, windows, doors, joinery, and decorative elements.

Inside will be adapted for open-plan offices, meeting rooms, and community spaces with reversible partitions.