OPEN consultation on the potential future uses of Killaloe Courthouse will take place this week.
Out of use since 1994, Killaloe Courthouse is a protected structure and a new use for the building is on the cards.
For the past three decades, sittings of Killaloe District Court have been held in the function room at the Lakeside Hotel.
In 2023, Clare County Council became the full registered owner of Killaloe Courthouse. Prior to this, the local authority had been involved in the Courthouse by assisting with conservation repairs to the windows and roof.
Its location within the heritage town centre of Killaloe offers an opportunity to revitalise the building while also encouraging footfall and activity to this area of the town centre.
Within the Killaloe Ballina Town Enhancement and Mobility Strategy, the building was identified as an opportunity site. In elaborating on the potential for the re-use of the Courthouse and lands, the Strategy indicated that a feasibility study on the re-use of the building was required. There is a necessity to bring the Courthouse back to a viable and economically sustainable use.
Killaloe Municipal District and Hourigan Drake Architects will hold open consultation events on Wednesday and Thursday where they will aim to gather the views of the public on how best to revitalise the building.
Members of the public are invited to come to Killaloe Courthouse on Wednesday, 21st August, from 2pm to 4pm, or on Thursday, 22nd August, from 6pm to 8pm.
Brian McCarthy, Senior Planner and Killaloe Municipal District Co-ordinator, Clare County Council, said, “The Killaloe-Ballina Town Enhancement and Mobility Strategy provides a unique opportunity to revitalise Killaloe by re-imagining public spaces and connecting key landmarks. Clare County Council wants the local community to help shape the future of Killaloe and to contribute on the best and most sustainable use of Killaloe Courthouse, a key heritage site in our town, going forward. I would encourage everyone to come to the consultation event at the Courthouse, held this Wednesday and Thursday to coincide with National Heritage Week, and have your say”.
