Portumna Courthouse, after two decades of vacancy, reopens as community hub

Portumna Courthouse has reopened as a vibrant arts, community, and enterprise hub after a €3.2 million restoration project. The building, which had been vacant for two decades, now features modern arts spaces, remote working facilities, and a café. The official opening took place on Wednesday June 25, with Minister of State Seán Canney TD in attendance.
The aim of the restoration project is to revitalise Portumna and the wider region by preserving the courthouse's architectural heritage while incorporating modern amenities. The €3.2 million project was supported by the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.
The opening event included music and dance performances and was followed by a community evening. The new hub is expected to serve as a central space for local events, meetings, and activities, fostering a sense of community and providing new opportunities for residents.

The Courthouse stopped operating as a District Court in 2005 during a period of centralisation in the Courts Service throughout Ireland, when many District Courts were shut down and moved to larger urban areas, often county towns.

READ MORE:

https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/midland-tribune/1828068/new-business-plan-being-prepared-for-important-birr-courthouse-project.html