A new Men's Shed for Laois among 'massive' plans for Parochial Hall redevelopment

Ambitious plans have begun to redevelop and revitalise Clonaslee Parochial Hall in order to keep it as an active hub of the community for generations to come. 

The Clonaslee Parochial Hall Redevelopment Committee is inviting the local community to attend a public meeting to discuss the future of the hall next week. 

Secretary of the Committee, Becky Dunne said a “massive” amount of work is being planned for the hall in order to futureproof it for generations to come. 

“The building has served the community for over 100 years and we want to secure it for the community for 100 more,” she explained.

She expects the project to take at least five years and involve fundraising and include grant applications as there are a number of initiatives under consideration. She said the committee has already engaged with Laois LEADER about the project.  

Ms Dunne said the Clodiagh Players Group, the High Nelly Club, Clonaslee GAA and Comhaltas are among the groups who already regularly use the Parochial Hall.

She said the stage in the hall is no longer fit for purpose and the committee wants to build onto the back of the hall. They are looking at the possibility of a bike shed along with studios where local artists and crafts people could work and also provide classes.  

Ms Dunne is particularly keen on seeing a Men’s Shed established in Clonaslee and she believes the Parochial Hall would be the ideal location for men from the area to meet up and share stories and skills. 

She said a  teashop was also being considered. Ultimately, she said, the committee aims to create “a purpose built building for the future of the community.” 

“The hall is an exciting project. I definitely think it will cause a bit of a stir in the village,” she said.   

“Clonaslee Parochial Hall has served as a central venue for numerous community groups for over 150 years. If the walls could talk there certainly would be many stories to tell!  Our vision for the redevelopment of this hall is to preserve and enhance the current structure, thereby ensuring its survival for generations to come,” a notice about the upcoming meeting states. 

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The public meeting will take place in the Parochial Hall on Thursday, March 13 at 8pm to discuss the redevelopment. All are welcome to attend and refreshments will be served on the night.