East Cork town to get dedicated cultural and civic centre

Midleton is set to get a dedicated cultural and civic centre, for use by local artists, history groups and community organisations.

Officials representing the East Cork Municipal District Council confirmed that they have plans in place to create the centre on the first floor of the public library on the main street, connected to the adjacent former post office.

The municipal council received €150,000 in grant-aid from the Government to kick-start the project under the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund.

In a statement, the council said this funding will be made available to progress certain particular schemes, such as area masterplans, and Town Centre First Plans, or initial design works for specific projects such as a cultural and community centre.

 ‘The proposed Midleton Cultural and Civic Centre Project will deliver the comprehensive regeneration of a prominent group of historic town-centre buildings comprising Midleton Library and the adjacent derelict former post office site, creating a single, integrated cultural, civic and community facility at the heart of the town,’ the statement said.

‘Completion of the proposed Category 1A project development phase will position the Midleton scheme at full investment readiness, with detailed design, statutory approvals and cost certainty in place. This preparedness would enable Cork County Council to respond quickly and competitively to any future funding calls, from government departments,’ the statement added.

Fine Gael councillor Rory Cocking, who has long sought the creation of a multi-use community arts, cultural and historical centre in the town, welcomed the news.

“We have a vibrant history group and arts and cultural sector. There are fantastic pieces being produced by local artists and they need a place to show their work. This is a bit of a win and I’m more than happy with that,” Mr Cocking said.

Social Democrats councillor Eamonn Horgan said: “It’s great to see funding in place to get this going. Hopefully this will benefit the town for years to come.”