A NEW milestone has been reached in the redevelopment of the King’s Island Community Centre set for St Mary’s Park in Limerick City.
The Regeneration Directorate at Limerick City and County Council announced on Thursday (September 22) that the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage had authorised the approval of funding for the project, which is expected to cost in the region of €4.8million.
The development project will include the preservation of some of the existing community centre building, with the erection of a new, purpose-built structure, as well as enhancements to the surrounding public space around Verdant Place and the River Shannon.
Stage 1 of the redevelopment scheme was endorsed by the St Mary’s Park Regeneration Committee, which paved the way for Stage 2 of the project which will see the procurement of a design team for the new community centre.
A representative for Limerick City and Council said that collaboration and community engagement have been central to the development of the proposed new facility, reflecting a “commitment to shape the centre to meet the needs of the community” in the King’s Island area.
The Regeneration Directorate will now engage closely with the local community before submitting the statutory planning application.
Mayor of Limerick City and County, Cllr Gerald Mitchell, welcomed the commitment to fund the project, saying: “King’s Island Community Centre is a key civic building within St Mary’s Park and it is at the heart of the community.”
“The proposal for the new community centre has been realised through positive collaboration and is a fine example of what can be achieved through engagement between the community and Limerick City and County Council.
“I welcome the commitment of funding from the Department and I look forward to seeing the completed development adding to the already vibrant and active community.”
Chair of the St Mary’s Park Regeneration Committee, Helen Flanagan, added: “The progression of King’s Island Community Centre is an exciting and positive step for the King’s Island community, which will assist in realising their full potential and ensuring a community centre which represents their present day needs.”
“The Regeneration Committee are grateful for the working group’s instrumental role in realising a brief, which the community support. We welcome the progression of this project and look forward to its realisation.”
