A new Community Centres Investment Fund 2022 has been announced to upgrade and refurbish community buildings across the country.
The €15 million fund will be divided into grants ranging from €10,000 to €300,000 for groups and organisations based in both rural and urban communities.
Application forms will be available online in the coming weeks.
The fund was announced during a webinar by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, who outlined a package of over €150 million designed to transform rural towns, villages and communities throughout 2022. The event was attended by over 300 stakeholders such as community groups, town teams, development associations and local chambers.
Announcing the new New Community Centre Fund, Minister Humphreys said: “If the Pandemic taught us one thing, it’s that we all have discovered the true meaning of ‘community’.
“That’s why I am delighted today to announce the new ‘Community Centres Investment Fund 2022.
“I am making available €15 million which will support the refurbishment and upgrade of community buildings across the country.
“Does your local Community Centre or Parish Hall need an upgrade or facelift?
Does your local community need financial support to carry out fire safety or other necessary repair works? Then this Fund is designed to support you.
“The new Fund will provide grants for small and large-scale projects and help us to provide focal points for communities as they come back together. I will publish details on how local community groups can apply for this funding later this month”
The other areas the Department will be prioritising investment this year will include revitalising town centres, combating dereliction, promoting remote working and enhancing communities.