Work commences on age-friendly homes at former Mayo convent site

WORK has started on an age-friendly homes project at the site of the former convent in Westport.

The development will deliver 18 apartments as part of a major redevelopment of the site where works on new civic offices, a library and community space are ongoing.

Tuath Housing today marked the commencement of the works to transform the historic Saint Mary’s Convent in Westport into 18 age-friendly social homes.

Developed in partnership with Mayo County Council and funded through the Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the project will restore and repurpose the former Convent of Mercy building on Altamont Street.

The conservation-led restoration will retain the historic character of the protected structure while adapting it for residential use. Key features including the façades and roofscape, chapel, stained-glass windows, decorative plasterwork, original joinery and staircases will be retained and restored. The entrance gates, graveyard, mature trees and established landscape setting will also be protected.

The development will provide 16 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom homes for older persons and smaller households, supporting independent living within the community. The former chapel will be transformed into a shared communal space for residents.

The project will bring a prominent building that has stood vacant for many years back into active use, preserving an important part of Westport's architectural, cultural and social heritage.

Bronagh D'Arcy, deputy CEO of Tuath Housing, said it is a unique project that demonstrates how historic buildings can be given a new lease of life while retaining their existing character.

“The development will enable older people to live in a home that suits their needs and remain connected to the services, amenities and communities they know.

“This development reflects Tuath's commitment to providing homes that support independent living while also protecting and enhancing Ireland's built heritage,” she said.

Councillor John Caulfield, cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, said: "This project represents a major step forward in a transformative civic and cultural phase for Westport. I want to acknowledge the ongoing dedication of everyone who has helped progress this development to its current stage.

“In particular, we welcome the commencement of works today by Tuath Housing in partnership with Mayo County Council as they begin to deliver these 18 age friendly homes. Tuath’s steadfast commitment to providing homes that foster independent living and support our senior community is highly commendable.

“The continued alignment and dedication of all parties involved ensure that this regeneration will not only enhance Westport’s built heritage but will also strengthen the social and cultural foundations of the town."

Kevin Kelly, chief executive of Mayo County Council, said: "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.

“We welcome the fantastic work of Tuath as they advance construction to deliver 18 purpose-built age friendly homes. This project ensures that our senior community members can live in comfortable homes tailored directly to their needs while remaining deeply rooted in the local community, close to the essential services and amenities they know and rely on."

Main contractor OCC Construction has commenced works on site, with completion anticipated in late 2028.

The project forms part of the wider regeneration of the former convent lands alongside Mayo County Council's civic development plans, helping to reduce vacancy and dereliction and support the continued revitalisation of Westport town centre.

Local representatives Councillor Brendan Mulroy, cathaoirleach, Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, Councillor Peter Flynn, Councillor John O’Malley and Councillor Chris Maxwell were among the attendance today to mark the formal commencement of work on the 18 age-friendly apartments in the former residence of the Sisters of Mercy.

Similar to St. Mary’s Villas and Plougastel Court, the apartments will be allocated through the council’s social housing list.

Said Councillor Flynn: “With this latest development, the total investment in the former Convent of Mercy site will reach €34 million, with the overall project scheduled for completion by mid-2028.

“It is very satisfying to see this historic site being transformed into a valuable community asset, providing much-needed age-friendly accommodation while preserving an important part of Westport’s heritage.”

He hailed it as being a 'significant milestone for Westport and another step towards realising the full potential of the former convent site'.