Gort Town Team is delighted to welcome the announcement today by Minister Darragh Calleary of €1,000,000 in funding to secure the purchase of the former Gort Convent by Galway County Council. This significant investment marks a key milestone in the implementation of the Gort Town Centre First Plan and signals the beginning of an exciting new chapter for this much-loved landmark, also known as Bridge House.
The historic building, located in the heart of Gort, is a cherished part of the town’s architectural and cultural heritage. Working in close partnership with Galway County Council, the Gort Town Team is committed to transforming the site into a vibrant community hub that will benefit residents of all ages for generations to come. The convent is currently vacant and there has been a strong community drive to secure the building (oulined in Saving the Gort Convent Building- A Critical Moment for Gort’s Heritage)
“This is a long-term project that will require sustained financial investment and strong collaboration to take this project to completion,” said Bernice Forde Carolan, spokesperson for the Gort Town Team said. “But today’s announcement gives us real momentum and confidence as we move forward.”
The vision for the convent building is for it to be renovated into a multi-purpose remote-working,innovation, cultural and community centre which could host an art gallery etc and connect to and extend the Gort River Walk
Gort Town Team extended heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to securing this crucial funding, with special appreciation for Galway County Council’s incredible team of Hazel Fox, Ronan Conway & Brent Mostert, for their steadfast support and invaluable guidance throughout the process.
“This highlights how important the Gort Town Centre First Plan is in helping to secure a vision of Gort for the future – this is all part of the plan, and this announcement shows Galway County Councils commitment to delivering this.” said Forde Carolan.
This project also got strong support from public representatives including Albert Dolan TD Minister Sean Canney and Louis O’ Hara, TD.
‘This funding represents a major step towards transforming Gort’s town centre and building an even stronger, more connected community. ‘ said Albert Dolan TD. The redevelopment of the site will breathe new life into the heart of the town and create a space that supports enterprise, creativity, and community activity all under one roof.”
“This is a very necessary and timely project – transforming a landmark building into a vibrant community hub that will serve the people of Gort for generations to come. ,’ said Minister Sean Canney. “Galway County Council’s vision to retain the Old Convent in community ownership will help breathe new life into the town, ensuring it once again plays a central role in the area.”
As the redevelopment progresses, the Gort Town Team will continue to work collaboratively with Galway County Council and will engage with the community to shape a shared vision for Bridge House.
Gort Town Centre First Plan 