Mayo town to receive significant funding
Alan Dillon TD has welcomed the news.
Minister of State Alan Dillon TD has welcomed a significant EU funding award that will support the redevelopment and regeneration of public spaces and infrastructure in the town of Balla.
Speaking about the announcement, Minister Dillon said: “I’m delighted to confirm that Balla CRD, in partnership with Castlebar Municipal District of Mayo County Council, has been successful in securing major EU funding under the Built4People Partnership. This initiative supports innovative and community-led approaches to designing and managing urban spaces.”
The successful project, titled BLUEPRINT, will combine cutting-edge technology with strong community involvement to help shape a more sustainable, attractive, and accessible town. The Balla proposal received top marks in the evaluation process and was one of only five projects selected across Europe—standing out as the only Irish submission. The other successful towns are in Greece, France, Hungary and Italy.
The project will run over 42 months, with full details of the funding and programme to be announced shortly.
Minister Dillon added:
“This is a huge achievement for Balla and a testament to the hard work and vision of everyone involved. It puts Balla on the map as a leader in rural regeneration and sustainable development.”
Key Goals of the Balla Pilot Project:
- Revitalising Public Spaces: Upgrading infrastructure to reduce energy use and emissions, while promoting walking, cycling, and inclusive access.
- Community-Driven Design: Engaging residents through workshops and digital tools to reimagine unused buildings for mixed-use purposes.
- Transforming Market Square: Creating a pedestrian-friendly hub for social and economic activity, shaped by local input and digital co-design.
- Improving Mobility: Enhancing walking and cycling routes using AR/VR tools to ensure safety, accessibility, and community alignment.
- Preserving Heritage: Digitally documenting and upgrading key landmarks with energy-efficient solutions that respect Balla’s cultural identity.
- A Model for Other Towns: Demonstrating how rural towns can lead in sustainable development through the Town Centre First initiative.
Minister Dillon concluded: “This project will not only transform Balla but also serve as a blueprint for other small towns across Ireland. It’s about building a better future together. I look forward to seeing progress on this over the coming three years.”
