€6.4 million funding confirmed for major Mayo project
Minister Calleary said, “I am delighted to approve this landmark project to proceed to construction, and confirm funding of over €6.4 million under my Department’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund." Pic: Michael McLaughlin
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, today (5th May) confirmed approval to allow the Ballintubber Abbey Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre project to proceed to construction and final funding allocation of over €6.4 million under his Department’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.
The project will restore the East Wing of the 800-year-old Ballintubber Abbey and will house a three-floor cultural and heritage visitor attraction to tell the story and history of the Abbey and the Abbeys of Ireland.
Speaking today, Minister Calleary said:
“I am delighted to approve this landmark project to proceed to construction, and confirm funding of over €6.4 million under my Department’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.
"The Ballintubber Abbey Culture and Heritage Visitor Centre project reflects what the RRDF is all about, creating opportunities for economic and social vitality within our rural communities."
The project will encompass a modern Visitor Interpretative and Interactive Learning Centre, including gallery and exhibition spaces.
Works will also include conservation of the Chapter House and Cloister, as well as enhancements to the Abbey grounds.
Minister Calleary added:
“Strategic capital investment under the RRDF is helping unlock the enormous potential in rural Ireland, supporting regeneration and, in doing so, making places like Ballintubber better places to live, work, invest and visit. I look forward to following the project’s progress with interest and will be excited to see the Ballintubber Abbey Culture and Heritage Visitor Centre being enjoyed by visitors, both local and from further afield, for many generations to come.”
