€15m library project "will have a lasting impact on Edenderry's future"
Offaly County Council has confirmed that Edenderry-based construction company Bretland has been awarded the contract for the construction of the town's new €15 million library and Arts base.
The development is planned for the former Tesco site at 33-34 JKL Street, next to the AIB Bank branch, and has an estimated timeframe for delivery of 18 months.
Offaly County Council said a pre-contract meeting with Bretland was held on Thursday, April 30, and a contract signing is expected in the coming weeks.
The new facility is set to incorporate dedicated adult, teen, and children’s libraries, an Arts base/multi-purpose space, and three artists' studios.
It will also feature support spaces such as two meeting rooms, a wet workshop, a catering kitchenette, a sensory room, a 'changing places' toilet facility, and staff offices.
Outdoor programming areas are also planned, along with a new pedestrian and cycle connection linking JKL Street to Blundell Avenue and the wider Blundell area.
The council said the project also includes "significant public realm improvements, featuring biodiversity-focused landscaping, accessible parking, and the creation of a new urban plaza with seating".
Offaly County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr John Leahy said the appointment of the contractor was "a significant milestone" both for this project and for Edenderry as a whole.
"It signals the transition from planning into tangible delivery on the ground and gives the community real confidence that construction is imminent," he said.
"This substantial investment will have a lasting impact on Edenderry’s future," said Cllr Leahy.
"The new Community Library and Arts Base will provide high-quality, modern facilities, create fresh opportunities for learning and creativity, and establish a vibrant cultural hub that will enhance the town’s attractiveness as a place to live, work, and visit."
Cllr Liam Quinn, Cathaoirleach of Edenderry Municipal District, said: "Achieving this stage is a testament to the significant effort and collaboration involved, and I would like to acknowledge the support of the Minister, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Offaly County Council’s Regeneration, Library and Municipal District teams, as well as Worthwhile Architecture, whose continued commitment has been instrumental in progressing the project to this point."
Bretland's appointment as contractor was also welcomed by local councillor Noel Cribbin.
"I'm like a child on Christmas eve waiting for Santa," said Cllr Cribbin.
"I can't wait for this build to be completed, and instead of a long-standing derelict building we will have a €15 million state-of-the-art building that will serve the people and children of the area for many, many years to come."