Update on south Mayo town hall project

The Ballinrobe Civic Arts & Amenity Company (BCAAC) and South West Mayo Development Company (SWMDC), have provided an update on the planned redevelopment of the Valkenburg building as a new Town Hall for Ballinrobe.

Since acquiring the building in 2020, both organisations have been working in partnership to deliver a modern, sustainable community facility for the town.

Over the past 18 months, significant work has been completed, including the appointment of a professional project team: KSN Project Management, Taylor McCarney Architects, and Tom McNamara & Sons (Quantity Surveyors). The team is now guiding the project through detailed design and tender preparation.

While progress has taken longer than initially hoped, the project remains active and is progressing within the constraints of rising construction costs.

BCAAC Chairperson Michael Sweeney said the committee continues to work closely with SWMDC and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht (DRCDG) to ensure the project remains on track.

“We are in regular contact with the Department regarding the increased costs and the additional funding required to move to construction. This project continues to have strong community backing, and we are determined to see it delivered,” he said.

Said Sabina Trench, CEO, SWMDC: “The Town Hall is a vital community initiative for Ballinrobe and the wider region. SWMDC will continue to work closely with BCAAC and our partners to secure the resources needed to bring this important facility to completion.”

In parallel, a planning application has been lodged for a proposed change of use for part of the ground floor — formerly a coffee shop and restaurant — to create two universal access bedrooms. The accommodation element will support short-stay accommodation linked to Town Hall activities and provide a sustainable income stream which will underpin the long-term financial viability of the overall development. With Ballinrobe already well served by cafés and restaurants, this is viewed as a more strategic long-term use of the space.

BCAAC and SWMDC, together with their professional partners, remain committed to progressing the Ballinrobe Town Hall project and will continue to keep the community informed as further developments occur.

Outline drawings and plans for the project can be viewed here.

Anyone wishing to assist with the project should contact any member of the committee.