Sod turned on €13.5m convent site project

THE Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, has turned the sod this morning on a multi-million redevelopment of the former Sisters of Mercy convent site and adjacent lands at Altamount Street in Westport.

The redevelopment, which has received €13.5 million under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, will see the restoration and extension of the derelict former primary (previously industrial) school for a new public library, restoration of laundry buildings to provide for a community hub and the creation of a new landscaped public realm area.

“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,” said Minister Calleary at the sod turning ceremony.

The cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor 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.”

Chief executive of Mayo County Council, Mr. 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.”

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. It will also feature the development of new council offices on the site.

Minister Calleary 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.”