Progress is made on renovation plan for historic Ballina building

It is anticipated that a design team will be appointed for the renovation of the old Garda Barracks on Walsh Street in Ballina at the start of September, writes Paul O'Malley.

Last May, it was announced that Ballina was successful in securing funding of €200,000 under the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme (THRIVE) for the refurbishment of the old barracks, which has been vacant for almost 20 years.

At last week’s Ballina Municipal District meeting, Mayo Co Council's executive architect Robbie Maguire said this initial funding strand is intended to make the project ready for a follow-up tranche of funding.

“This is to bring the project to the post-planning stage and make it ready for a strand two application, which is earmarked to open in early 2025,” he said.

Mr Maguire said this was a tight window in which to get the design work done but the tender process has now begun.

“A tender has now been published and we’re expecting that back on August 7 and then hoping to have an architect-led design team appointed by the first week of September.

“That will give them all of September through to January to do the design work. It is quite tight but it is a fantastic fund and a fantastic opportunity on Walsh Street to do something for Ballina and preserve our heritage," he added.