Offaly Library to be transformed into community space and childcare facility

SHINRONE Library took another step towards being transformed into a multi-purpose Community Space & Childcare Facility during the September monthly meeting of Offaly County Council.
Historically, the property served as a schoolhouse and was most recently in use as a library. The property has been vacant since 2009.
The Chief Executive Anna Marie Delaney said the proposed development will be a change of use of the existing library, creating a new mixed-use space which will include a flexible community space and childcare facility. The construction will also include the addition of a small extension, a new vehicular one way in-out system, parking facilities and refurbishment of existing stores and bike shed.
There will be energy upgrades to the building envelope, including wall insulation, new doors and windows and roof insulation. There will be one main Childcare Room and associated facilities including kitchenette, WCs and sleep room; one flexible Community Space; and provision of Sanitary facilities including an accessible toilet.
“It is recommended that the members should agree to proceed with the development,” commented the Chief Executive. “It will provide additional employment to the local area, within the childcare setting, and will refurbish what is now a derelict property."
The public consultation period was held between June 4 and July 17 last. Three submissions were received, including from Shinrone Heritage Group and Shinrone Tidy Towns. The Heritage Group and Tidy Towns were very positive. “The building has been idle for close to 15 years,” said the Heritage Group, “and it is great to see it being brought back to use. We want to thank the staff of the regeneration team for their communication and consultation on the future use of the building.” Shinrone Tidy Towns Committee said they wished “to support the Part 8 process as published recently for the refurbishment of the Old Library Building. Shinrone Tidy Towns have been working closely with Offaly County Council regarding derelict buildings in the village and it is great to see this building being refurbished. We are fully behind the proposal and look forward to the project progressing.”
Cllr Peter Ormond told the meeting that it gave him great pleasure to propose that the development now proceed. “Shinrone Library has been vacant since 2009 and I want to thank the Town Regeneration Officer and the County Council team for their excellent work. It was good to see the two very positive submissions which we received.” He also praised Joe Cleary who chaired a local subcommittee. “Well done to everyone. I look forward now to seeing the construction work start.”
Cllr Audrey Hennessy Kennedy seconded the proposal and praised the Town Regeneration Officer and the CouncilTeam for “their fabulous work.”
Cllr Eleanor Clendennen also praised the County Council team. She said the revamped library space will be an important and valuable addition to the village. She asked what the opening hours will be. A member of the Council executive said 7am to 9.30pm.
Cllrs Seán Maher and John Leahy pointed out that the Town Regeneration project in the Council has been very positive for the county's towns since it was established.

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