Major refurbishment for community space launched

By Liudmyla Bortok

A community centre in Ballincollig is set for major improvements after construction works were launched there recently.

Tánaiste Simon Harris TD officially launched construction works at the Carraig Centre last Friday.

Supported by €185,000 from the Community Recognition Fund and €2 million from the Immigrant Investor Programme, the project brings practical improvements. These include flexible wall partitions to create adaptable spaces for local groups, a north walkway canopy for year-round access, and full refurbishment of the west wing to increase community space. At the launch, Lord Mayor Cllr Fergal Dennehy welcomed the Tánaiste and Minister Jerry Buttimer, noting the centre’s importance to the city’s social fabric.

“It’s a shared space open to all, improving life in Ballincollig and beyond,” he said.

Rebecca Loughry of Cork City Council praised the centre’s role in supporting both long-standing and new communities, including the Ukrainian choir. “This is an excellent example of what the Community Recognition Fund is all about,” she said. “It further adds to our commitment to enhancing and ensuring Cork city’s reputation as a ‘City of Welcomes’ which can be shared by all.”

Canon Robert Ferris called the event a milestone, thanking all involved: “We look forward to continuing our work, building on rock-solid foundations.”

The launch was attended by many of the community groups who regularly use the Carraig Centre and work closely with its volunteers and staff, showing the strength of local engagement.

The Carraig Centre, run by Carrigrohane Union of Parishes, is both a place of worship and a vital community hub.

These upgrades mean more flexible, accessible, and weatherproof facilities for all—ensuring the centre continues to grow with the needs of Ballincollig.

This article was produced with the support of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme funded by Coimisiún na Meán.