Planning approval for redevelopment of convent to be sought soon

Planning approval will be sought in the coming months for the proposed redevelopment of St Joseph's Convent in Ferbane.

In an update on the project, Offaly County Council, in partnership with An Síolán, said since securing funding in 2021, significant progress has been made.

Following public consultations, the appointment of Kenny Lyons Associates as the architect-led design team, and the development of preliminary designs, the project is now advancing toward the formal planning stage.

The project, funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Rural Regeneration Development Fund with matching funding from Offaly County Council’s Local Property Tax, aims to transform the historic convent into a multipurpose community, enterprise, and learning hub.

Members of An Síolán were on the design steering group and were an integral part of the design development process.

Chair of An Síolán, Brian Flynn said: "The committee of An Síolán are delighted to see the ideas and suggestions generated during the community consultation phase are incorporated into the designs that are going forward into the planning process. If we are successful with the planning and the Rural Regeneration funding application, the former St Joseph of Cluny Convent will continue to serve the community for generations to come. We are also grateful to all in the Regeneration Team of the Local Authority and everyone who has contributed to bringing the project this far.”

In January 2025, the design team, in collaboration with Offaly County Council’s Regeneration Section, presented draft designs to the members of Birr Municipal District of Offaly County Council.

The development proposal includes an urban garden, a linear river park, and multifunctional spaces within the convent building, all of which were well received by the members.

The Town Regeneration Officer, Olwen Cummins highlighted the importance of community involvement, stating: "This project demonstrates how strategic investment can address local needs while revitalising vacant buildings for future generations."

She continued: “In the coming months, the project will enter the Part 8 planning process, allowing the public and statutory bodies to review and provide feedback on the designs”. She thanked the community at large for their continued patience and support for the project.

It is envisaged that a call for funding under the Rural Regeneration Development Fund is expected in 2025 which will allow Offaly County Council to apply for the capital costs of this project if planning is approved.

Offaly County Council said it remains committed to delivering a high-quality, sustainable development that will benefit the people of Ferbane and Offaly for years to come.

Chief Executive of Offaly County Council Anna Marie Delaney said: “The overall purpose of the Local Property Tax is to provide a stable and sustainable source of funding so Offaly County Council can continue to provide local services and deliver infrastructural projects which will benefit local communities and the county.