The Regeneration Directorate at Limerick City and County Council are delighted to announce a significant milestone in the development of a new King’s Island Community Centre in St. Marys Park, Limerick.
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage have authorised approval of funding for this transformative project, which will involve an investment in the region of €4.8 million.
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.
This included the formation of a King’s Island Community Centre Working Group and extensive engagement with the community of Saint Mary’s Park and King’s Island as well as relevant stakeholders.
The proposal will preserve a portion of the existing community building while introducing a new, purpose-built structure. The project also encompasses enhancements to the surrounding public space along Verdant Place and the picturesque River Shannon.
The Stage 1 scheme was endorsed by the St. Mary’s Park Regeneration Committee. The Department approval is a significant step forward, paving the way for Stage 2 - the procurement of a design team and the preparation of a scheme design.
The Regeneration Directorate will subsequently engage closely with the local community before submitting the statutory planning application.
The progression of the King’s Island Community Centre is an exciting and positive development for the King’s Island community. It will enable them to realise their full potential and provide a community centre that reflects their current needs.
Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell welcomed the commitment to fund the project:
“King’s Island Community Centre is a key civic building within St. Marys 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. I wish all involved continued success as this project moves to the design phase.”
Chair of the St Mary’s Park Regeneration Committee, Helen Flanagan said:
“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.”