Major Boost for Ballinagree Village with Approval Received for Land Acquisition for New Community Facility

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea and Local Councillor Ted Lucey has welcomed confirmation that the Community of Ballinagree has been successful under the 2026 Town and Village Renewal Scheme – Building and Land Acquisition Measure, which will enable the acquisition of a site for a new community facility for the village.

The funding, provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, will allow Cork County Council and the community to secure a site that can become the future home of a much-needed community facility for Ballinagree – a village which currently has no dedicated community building.

Deputy O’Shea TD described it as a transformative opportunity for the village.

“This is a landmark day for Ballinagree and one that the local community has worked towards. The acquisition of this site is the first major step in delivering a permanent community facility for the village, something that local people have long deserved.”

“Ballinagree has a vibrant and active community, yet it has never had its own dedicated community facility. This announcement changes that and provides a real opportunity to develop a central hub that can serve people of all ages for generations to come.”

“I want to sincerely congratulate everyone in the Ballinagree community who has continued to advocate for this project. Their determination and vision have been instrumental in reaching this important milestone.”

“I also want to pay particular tribute to the staff of the Macroom Municipal District Office, who worked closely with the community throughout this process. Their support, guidance and commitment were invaluable in developing this successful application, and this announcement demonstrates what can be achieved when local communities and Cork County Council work together with a shared vision.”

He added that while securing the site is a significant achievement, it is only the beginning of the journey.

“Now that the site can be secured, we must continue working together to develop plans and secure the funding necessary to deliver a first-class community facility for Ballinagree. I will continue to work closely with the community, the Macroom Municipal District Office, Cork County Council and Government colleagues to help bring this exciting project to fruition.”

Deputy O’Shea added “I am absolutely delighted that funding has been approved to allow the acquisition of a site for a future community facility in Ballinagree. This is a hugely significant milestone for the village and one that I was very pleased to support and play my part in bringing to fruition.”

“For many years, Ballinagree has been without a dedicated community facility despite having an incredibly active and committed community. Securing this site is the crucial first step towards changing that and creating a lasting legacy for future generations.”

“I want to congratulate the Ballinagree community for their vision and determination in pursuing this project. I also want to commend the Macroom Municipal District Office for working hand in hand with the community throughout the process. Their professionalism and commitment have been instrumental in securing this funding.”

“I also want to acknowledge Minister Jerry Buttimer TD and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for their continued investment in rural Ireland. This is exactly the type of initiative that strengthens our villages and ensures communities like Ballinagree can continue to thrive. I look forward to continuing to work with Cllr. Ted Lucey and all public representatives, the local community and Cork County Council to help deliver this much-needed community facility.”

Local Fine Gael Cllr. Ted Lucey praised the commitment of the local community and Cork County Council in bringing the project to this stage. “I want to thank Minister Jerry Buttimer TD and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for their continued commitment to supporting rural communities through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.

“This investment is a strong vote of confidence in Ballinagree and its future. It is wonderful to see the Government backing rural communities in such a practical way, and I look forward to seeing this project progress over the coming years. I have no doubt that today’s announcement marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Ballinagree and its people.”