€1.2 Million Funding Boosts Regeneration in Limerick Towns

The Irish government has announced funding exceeding €1.2 million for two significant redevelopment projects in County Limerick. This funding will support the Merchant’s House Site in Kilmallock and the former Bank of Ireland building in Rathkeale. The announcement was made on October 10, 2023, by Dara Calleary, the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

The investment allocates €886,176 to the Merchant’s House site and €346,480 for the former Bank of Ireland building. Minister Calleary characterized this funding as a crucial step toward advancing “ambitious rural regeneration and economic development projects to full readiness.”

This initiative is part of a broader funding effort of €20 million designated for 29 landmark regeneration projects in rural communities across Ireland. The funding comes through the Rural Regeneration Development Fund (RRDF), aimed at rejuvenating town centres, boosting economic growth, and increasing foot traffic. It also seeks to combat dereliction and vacancy, enhance pedestrian zones and outdoor spaces, and promote tourism in rural areas.

Local representative and Fianna Fáil Minister Niall Collins praised the funding announcement, calling it “fantastic news” for both the Merchant’s House site and the former Bank of Ireland building. He emphasized the importance of these projects for preserving the heritage and history of rural Limerick, noting that the funding will significantly enhance the vibrancy and tourism appeal of both Rathkeale and Kilmallock.

Minister Calleary expressed his satisfaction in unveiling the successful projects chosen from applications submitted in response to the latest call for proposals under the RRDF. “This €1 billion fund, established under Project Ireland 2040, is designed to deliver targeted investments necessary for rural Ireland to continue to grow and prosper, ensuring balanced regional development that benefits everyone,” he stated.

The funding marks a pivotal moment for the communities involved, as both Kilmallock and Rathkeale stand to benefit from the revitalization of key historical sites. The local economy is expected to receive a significant boost, fostering a more vibrant community atmosphere and attracting visitors to these culturally rich areas.

As these projects move forward, stakeholders and residents alike are optimistic about the positive changes that are set to unfold, reinforcing the commitment to rural development and heritage conservation in Ireland.