Over €425,300 secured for Daingean Town Hall conservation project
An allocation of €425,334 has been confirmed for the Daingean Town Hall Conservation Project under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF).
The funding announcement was made by the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, alongside the Minister of State for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD.
Offaly Fine Gael TD John Clendennen welcomed the news, describing the allocation as a “significant milestone for the regeneration of Daingean,” highlighting the town’s heritage as the former capital of County Offaly and the Town Hall’s value as a cultural and architectural landmark.
“This investment represents a major step forward for Daingean,” he said. “The conservation and redevelopment of the Town Hall will not only safeguard an important piece of our heritage but also inject new life into the town centre, creating opportunities for community, cultural and economic activity for generations to come.”
Deputy Clendennen paid tribute to Cllr Liam Quinn, acknowledging his role as a member of the Courthouse Committee and his commitment to advancing the project both locally and nationally.
“This successful funding allocation is in no small part thanks to the tireless efforts of Cllr Liam Quinn. It has been a privilege to work alongside him to secure this vital investment for Daingean,” he said.
He also commended the local committee and the Offaly County Council Regeneration Team, led by Olwen Cummins, for their ongoing work on the project.
The Daingean Town Hall initiative is part of a wider €3.4 million redevelopment plan for the town’s historic courthouse, which currently serves as the town hall. The project aims to preserve the building’s heritage while creating a modern, multi-purpose space for community, cultural and educational use.
Plans include a flexible main hall capable of hosting up to 150 people, adaptable spaces for weddings, presentations and classes, and a digital hub or office space on the upper floor. Accessibility upgrades, including a new entrance, lift, and fully accessible facilities, are also planned, along with safety improvements and the reconstruction of the main hall roof.
Energy efficiency measures such as heat pumps, solar panels, and sustainable drainage solutions are under consideration, while public realm works will retain the new pedestrian crossing and include additional traffic-calming features.
The redevelopment aims to revitalise one of Daingean’s most historic buildings, ensuring it remains a central hub for community life and future growth in the town.