Tender awarded for transformative €15 million library and arts base in Offaly town
Tender awarded for transformative €15 million library and arts base in Offaly town
A significant milestone in the development of the new Edenderry Library and Arts Base has been achieved today with the confirmation of the the awarding of the tender for this ambitious project. The successful application was presented by Bretland, a multi-sector construction company, based in Edenderry.
This development marks a pivotal moment for the community of Edenderry, promising a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a cultural and educational hub.
The project, an investment of approximately €15 million, is substantially funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, with additional crucial funding provided by Offaly County Council.
“To see this project get to this stage is really a very welcome development. This facility will be a focal point in the centre of Edenderry and hopefully will be the first of a number of projects delivered for the town,” said Deputy John Clendennen.
The new two-storey Community Library and Arts Base facility, spanning 1803sqm at 33-34 JKL Street, Edenderry, Co. Offaly, will encompass a comprehensive range of amenities. These include dedicated adult, teen, and children’s libraries, an arts base/multipurpose space, and three artist’s studios. The facility will also feature essential ancillary support spaces such as two meeting rooms, a wet workshop, a catering kitchenette, a sensory room, a changing places facility, staff offices, and staff/library user support spaces.
Deputy Clendennen highlighted the broader impact of this project on Edenderry, viewing it as a catalyst for further urban development.
“There are a number of projects in the pipeline for Edenderry including a primary care centre and the swimming pool. This vision underscores the transformative potential of the library as a cornerstone for future community enhancements.”
In acknowledging the collaborative effort behind this achievement, Deputy Clendennen extended his gratitude to key contributors.
“I would like to pay special mention to Cllr Noel Cribbin, who has been with this project since the beginning. It has been a collaborative approach between the members and executive of Offaly County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development and will result in a state-of-the-art facility that will serve the town of Edenderry and its surrounds for years to come.”
With an estimated 18-month timeframe for delivery, the community eagerly anticipates the completion of this landmark project.
“This project has been worked on and progressed for the last eight years and it should be an immense source of pride for Cllr Cribbin, Offaly County Council and all those involved to get to this point. I’d like to congratulate Bretland on their successful tender. I very much look forward to seeing the works commence and the doors open in the not too distant future,” Deputy Clendennen concluded.