Over €4 million secured for Cork County projects in the Rural Regeneration Fund

Cork County Council has secured funding to the value of €4,822,511 for two projects in the Government’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF).

Youghal has received one of the highest funding allocations at €4,048,511 with Cork County Council providing an additional €449,835, for a new town library.  A collection of derelict buildings on North Main Street will be renovated and extended to create a modern and fully restored library.  The new library will reinvigorate the town centre and provide essential community facilities and services, including remote learning resources and an accessible public space in the town for residents and visitors.

Ballydesmond is also set to benefit with funding of €774,000 secured, which will be supplemented by the Council to a total project cost of €860,000.  These monies will be focused on improvement works for the village centre, including key developments such as enhanced streetscapes, walkways and park areas.

A key component of Project Ireland 2040, the €1 billion Rural Regeneration and Development Fund sets out to support the rejuvenation of communities, job creation and transform rural economies.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley warmly welcomed the news saying,

“These two projects will provide a fantastic boost for the communities of Youghal and Ballydesmond. As a long-time campaigner and former member of the Council’s library committee, I was always aware of the potential for a successful funding announcement considering the Council’s long-term plan for a new town library and calibre of Cork County Council’s application. The people of Youghal, will welcome a longed-for permanent library and Ballydesmond is set to see a new village vista.  We have two very positive projects ahead and I look forward to seeing both progress.”

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey went on to say,

“These successful projects will play an important role in Cork County Council’s continued focus toward supporting economic and social growth across county towns and villages.  Each town will be able to take full advantage of their unique potential, an approach which forms part of Cork County Council’s wider Town Framework Plans and provide excellent local amenities.”