Durrow unveils two new public amenities

Two major public infrastructure projects were officially unveiled in Durrow last Wednesday evening.

DARÚ HQ, a new community enterprise hub in Durrow town, is the product of a €1.9 million investment under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF). This funding allowed the old Methodist Chapel and ICA hall on Patrick Street to be converted into a multi-use community, remote working, and learning hub. The new centre includes a stage for events and performances, offices, meeting rooms, and desk spaces for remote working.

Also receiving its official reveal on Wednesday was the Durrow Community Cycling Trail. The trail received €492,750 under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme. Community members remarked on how the newly-resurfaced trails are providing a safe and accessible outdoor space, particularly for older people, people with disabilities, and parents teaching their children to ride bikes.

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary was the guest of honour at both events. While both projects received departmental funding, the Minister was keen to highlight that their instigation and completion was the direct result of the vision and determination of Durrow community members.

Members of local cycling club Pedal Vintage were described as “intrinsic” to the development of the cycle trails. Group member Matt Doyle recalled how community organiser Hugh Sheppard had convened a mysterious meeting at Bob’s Bar, where he revealed to those summoned his vision to develop a 30-kilometre trail through three woods in Durrow: Dunmore, Capponellan and Knockanoran. The resurfacing of the trails in Dunmore and Capponellan marks a significant step towards achieving Mr Sheppard’s vision.

Equally, state funds for the DARÚ HQ facility were supplemented by the Durrow community’s own fundraising, notably through the town’s famous scarecrow festival. Chair of the Durrow Development Forum Evelyn Clancy, who spearheaded the DARÚ HQ project, thanked the “fantastic” Durrow community for its support, giving particular mention to those who “put their pride on the line” to take part in Durrow Goes to Hollywood.

While at the Durrow Community Cycling Trail, the Minister also launched the County Laois Outdoor Recreation Plan.

“You are blessed in this county,” he said, launching the yet-to-be-released plan. “We saw it showcased only a few weeks ago at EP how beautiful facilities you have, and now you have a plan that puts it all together, lays out an ambition. [It’s] probably going to mean more bills coming to me for recreation in Laois, but we will spend it, we will absolutely invest in this county.”