Changes to design of St Michael’s Hall

Fairgreen Community Centre Committee has applied to Cavan County Council for a series of amendments to already approved plans for the redevelopment of St Michael’s Hall at Chapel Lane, Cootehill.

The modifications proposed include internal layout changes to the planned two-storey extension, renovations and alterations to the existing hall stage and balcony, and revisions to the façade design and materials of the new extension.

St Michael’s Hall is listed as a protected structure and the application comes as part of the wider multi-million euro conservation, refurbishment and extension of the landmark building.

Last year, tenders were issued for the project, which aims to transform the hall into a modern community hub incorporating a sports hall, community meeting rooms, an auditorium and stage, ancillary facilities and associated site works.

Planning permission for the overall redevelopment was originally granted in February 2024.

An architectural design statement prepared by Craftstudio Architecture outlined the community’s ambition to future-proof the facility to meet the needs of Cootehill “for the next 100 years”.

The project received a significant funding boost in June 2024 when then Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys announced a grant of €6,129,442 under the Rural Regeneration and Redevelopment Fund. With additional support from the local authority, total funding for the project exceeds €6.8M.

Local organisations expected to benefit from the redevelopment include Drumlin House, The Holy Family School, St Aidan’s Comprehensive School, St Michael’s National School and Darley National School.

Council planners are expected to issue a decision by early April.