€160,000 for north Mayo heritage-led regeneration project

BALLINA has been awarded €160,000 under the Historic Towns Initiative.

The project selected for inclusion in the scheme is the Belleek Gate Lodge.

The protected structure is 'known to everyone' who has ever visited Belleek Woods or Belleek Castle, said Deputy Dara Calleary, welcoming the allocation.

Deputy Calleary explained: “The aim of the works is to allow for re-use of the structure as a residence for artists, writers, ecologists, historians and environmentalists and for community engagement. It follows a €95,000 investment under the Built Heritage Scheme in 2021.

“I want to congratulate Siobhan Sexton and the team at Mayo County Council on the successful application which will add immensely to Belleek and to Ballina.”

Deputy Alan Dillon said he too was delighted to see Ballina securing capital funding which will help provide jobs through this heritage-led regeneration project.

He stated: “This funding will provide well-deserved recognition of the rich and valued history and heritage of this proud north Mayo town.

“This announcement follows the launch of Heritage Ireland 2030, the new national heritage plan, which will strengthen the management and protection of our built, cultural and natural heritage and provide supports to those responsible for caring for that heritage.”