Under the Rural Regeneration Development Fund (RRDF), €1 million has been allocated to the project to rejuvenate the old Sisters of Mercy convent and bring to life an improved space.
The funding awarded to the project is expected to cover 90pc of the overall cost to complete.
Vision for the space includes a multi-purpose area, remote working facilities as well as a cultural, innovation, and community hub for the residents of Gort.
“This is a long-term project that will require sustained financial investment and strong collaboration to take this project to completion,” said Bernice Forde Carolan, spokesperson for the Gort Town Team said. “But today’s announcement gives us real momentum and confidence as we move forward.”
The original convent was brought to Gort in 1857 inside the pre-existing home on the site, said to be one of the oldest inhabited buildings in Gort. Nearly 165 years later, the convent closed in 2021.
This follows a series of other praised projects under this fund throughout County Galway taking old and unused buildings and transforming them to multi-use spaces for the local community.
Some examples include the restoration of Tuam Town Hall, regeneration of the Old Railway Station, and ongoing works at Loughrea Town Hall.
Galway East TD Seán Canney said this is a “very necessary” project for the town of Gort adding that “transforming buildings like the Old Convent breathe life back into a town and will ensure it plays a central role in the area for years to come”.
“It is brilliant to see it delivering real benefits to towns like Gort today."
This project is a major partnership between Gort Town Team, Galway County Council, and the Gort Family Resource Centre. Another Galway East TD, Albert Dolan also shared praises for the project.
“This is about unlocking the full potential of Gort, ensuring it continues to grow as a place of opportunity, innovation, and community spirit. This investment will help shape a stronger, more vibrant future for the town and all who live here,” Deputy Dolan said.