Sod is turned on €13.5m project in Mayo

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary turned the sod today on a major redevelopment of the Sisters of Mercy Convent Site and adjacent lands in Westport.

This redevelopment, which has received €13.5 million under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), will transform the former Sisters of Mercy Convent site and adjacent lands.

The project, located entirely within the existing grounds of the historic former Sisters of Mercy Convent site on Altamont Street, in the centre of Westport town, includes the restoration and extension of derelict former primary (previously industrial) school for a new public library, as well as the restoration of laundry buildings to provide for a community hub and community facilities. It is also intended to create new civic offices and a new landscaped public realm area on the large site.

Speaking at the sod turning, Minister Calleary said: “This project will see the regeneration of the former Sisters of Mercy Convent site in the heart of Westport, an architecturally significant complex that has played a significant role in the local community over the centuries and represents a transformational project for the community of Westport.

“This project, when completed, will make this site a key landmark in the centre of Westport town.” 

Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Sean Carey, said: “The sod-turning for the regeneration of the Sisters of Mercy Convent Site is not just the start of a construction project - it is the beginning of a new civic and cultural era for the town. I want to acknowledge the dedication of everyone who helped bring this project to this stage and in particular Minister Calleary and his Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, who provided the grant funding. The commitment of all parties involved ensures that this regeneration will not only enhance Westport’s infrastructure but will also strengthen the social and cultural foundations of the town.” 

The council's chief executive Kevin Kelly said: “By restoring and repurposing these historic buildings, we are breathing new life into a historic part of Westport. This site, which is steeped in history and community memory, will soon become a vibrant hub providing public services, and enhancing community life for generations to come. The new library, civic offices, and community hub will be places for people to learn, access vital services and come together as a community.

“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when vision, heritage, and community come together. 

"I would like to extend my thanks to Minister Calleary and his Department for their commitment to this project and I want to thank all those who have contributed to bringing this initiative to where we are today and we all look forward to the speedy advancement of construction.” 

This landmark investment project will see the provision of key facilities in a central location in Westport, enhancing both the quality of life of the town’s residents and improving the overall experience of visitors to the region respectively. 

The Minister added: “As the largest RRDF project in Co Mayo, the refurbishment and reuse of these vacant and derelict buildings will act as a catalyst and a stimulus for the regeneration within this complex, and indeed, further redevelopment within the town centre. The benefits that will derive from this project will be significant, both socially and economically.

“It really will be great to see how the site will become a new focal point for the town of Westport, and I will be following the town’s progress with great interest.”