At the Launch of Cootehill 300 Cootehill’s Tercentenary celebrations, which kicked off with a talk in the library by local historian Patrick Cassidy, earlier this year were: Seated (from left) Mary Brigid Duffy, Patrick Cassidy and Margaret Bannon (Cootehill Library); Back, John Joe Lennon, Cllr Stiofán Conaty, Mary Lennon, Emma Clancy (Chief Librarian Cavan) and Gerry McDonagh.

A remarkable year for the town of Cootehill

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Cootehill is in the midst of a remarkable transformation with abundant projects and celebration happening in the town.

From new housing estates to rejuvenated community spaces and upgraded infrastructure, the town is evolving in dynamic and meaningful ways. In a year as special as this one, Cootehill’s 300th anniversary, that transformation takes on even deeper significance.

Throughout 2025, the town has been celebrating its tercentenary with a lively calendar of monthly events, honouring the rich heritage of a community that continues to grow, adapt, and lead.

It’s a celebration not only of the past but of a future filled with opportunity and progress. Events to come include street performances in July, a Le Cheile singers event and summer festival in August; the Gerry Whelan weekend incorporating a Fair Day in September; the East Breffni Athletic Club Fun Run in October; the local Christmas markets in November and a Drone/Fireworks show to cap off the year in style in December.

Among the “most significant developments” locally is the “long awaited” redevelopment of Drumlin House, according to Bridget Boyle.

“For over 40 years, Drumlin House has supported adults with intellectual disabilities, including those with autism, physical, and sensory needs, through day services and rehabilitative training,” she stated.

Now, a €7.5 million state-of-the-art facility is set to be built on the same site, replacing the existing premises, with construction due to begin “shortly”. The new two-storey centre will feature modern classrooms, a sensory room, IT suite, physiotherapy room, training kitchen, and sensory garden.

Designed to meet growing demand for HSE day services, it will also double as a valuable community resource.

Housing

Meanwhile Cootehill’s growth continues with the development of new housing estates, delivering over 150 new housing units, meeting demand and welcoming new families.

“These developments add to the town’s vibrancy and ensure a sustainable, welcoming future for generations to come,” Chamber President Lisa Pepper said.

St Michael’s Hall is also being expanded and modernised and will deliver a “stunning” community, arts and sports facility to the town.

The proposed St Michael’s Church Pastoral Centre, when built, will enable the parish to better meet the needs of a thriving community.

Meanwhile, the former Bank of Ireland building is being reimagined as a Community Hub.

Cavan County Council is advancing plans for a new service road and the development of five fully-serviced enterprise sites at Cornacarrow.

“This infrastructure investment is designed to attract further industrial and technological enterprises, bolstering local employment and economic growth,” said Lisa.

Separately, Station Road is currently undergoing a programme of resurfacing and improvement works, with new footpaths and an active travel cycle lane incorporated to improve safety and accessibility, encouraging healthier, more sustainable travel.

“Whether it’s through inclusive services like the new Drumlin House, community hubs like St Michael’s Hall and the old Bank of Ireland, improved infrastructure, or the celebration of a 300-year legacy, Cootehill is a town on the rise, a place where past, present, and future meet in powerful harmony.

“For Cootehill, the message is clear; we honour our heritage by investing in an inclusive, connected, and confident tomorrow,” concluded Lisa.

Gemma Good
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