Images released of Mayo's controversial 'vanity project'

Mayo County Council has released images of its proposed new civic chamber and foyer upgrade project at Aras an Chontae in Castlebar.

The proposal has been the subject of controversy since Deputy Paul Lawless castigating the spending of high sums of public money on what he described as 'a vanity project'.

Based on current quantity surveyor cost plans, the new chamber, which accommodates the monthly statutory meetings of Mayo County Council, is expected to cost €1.29 million and the foyer upgrade €860,000, both costs inclusive of VAT.

There is a significant contribution to the developments being made under the SEAI Pathfinder Energy Upgrade Programme.

The pathfinder works at Áras an Chontae form part of a broader, council-wide energy retrofit programme currently being delivered by the local authority.

In addition to Áras an Chontae headquarters, the programme includes three additional public buildings located at Westport Leisure Park, Castlebar Fire Station and Ballina Swimming Pool

The total programme cost is €8.281 million (inclusive of VAT) with 50% SEAI grant funding.

The remaining balance is being financed over the long term through a loan arrangement, minimising annual financial impact.

Energy efficiency improvements under the pathfinder programme will reduce the council’s annual energy costs and exposure to future energy price increases, thereby delivering ongoing savings to the public purse and reducing long term financial risk for the council.

Collectively, these projects, the council has outlined, represent a once-in-a-generation investment in the county’s primary civic building, that will enhance democratic functions improve accessibility, safety and inclusivity for all users

Works are expected to start on the foyer enhancement in December and be completely on April, at which stage the works on the chamber will begin on a phased basis with a due completion date of December 2028.

An alternative venue for council meetings will be announced in due course with the TF Royal Theatre in Castlebar a likely venue because of its close proximity to the council HQ.

"Collectively, the projects ensure that Áras an Chontae continues to serve the people of Mayo effectively, sustainably and with a standard of accommodation appropriate to its central civic role," a council spokesperson added.