Galway County Council has successfully sought an additional €400,000 for the redevelopment of Portumna Courthouse – to cover the significant increase in construction costs.

The allocation was confirmed by Rural Development Minister Heather Humphreys last week – and local Deputy Ciaran Cannon said it was reflective of what he called the government’s total commitment to the project and seeing it through to completion.

“In April of 2021 Minister Humphreys allocated €2.5m to this project and she visited Portumna to make the announcement, an indication of her commitment to this groundbreaking community project,” he said.

“In recent months, arising from major increases in construction costs, officials in Galway Co. Council made a submission to the Department of Rural Development seeking an additional €400,000 to complete the project and I’m really pleased that the Minister and her officials have seen fit to allocate the funds,” said Deputy Cannon.

Construction work on the Portumna Courthouse redevelopment is already underway and when completed will result in a new multi-purpose arts and performance space, a remote working hub to serve Southeast Galway, and a new public social space.

“This is a massive vote of confidence in Portumna and Southeast Galway on the part of our government and it will facilitate the development of a long-awaited flagship cultural centre and remote working hub,” added the Fine Gael TD.

“In addition, it will add to the social fabric of this beautiful town with a place for people to congregate in a truly unique setting. I’m deeply grateful to Minister Humphreys for remaining on our side here and making these additional funds available”, concluded Deputy Cannon.

The Department of Community and Rural Development had originally provided €2.5 in funding for this joint project with Galway County Council to facilitate the complete transformation of the 175-year-old courthouse.

The renovation of the interior of the old, listed building has also been hailed as ‘a shot in the arm’ for the arts in the region, given that it will provide an exhibition space. The transformation will also involve the provision of a remote working hub, café and outdoor social space.

The imposing building, which ceased to be a functioning courthouse around two decades ago, will also facilitate performing groups when the revamp is completed – given the considerable space available within the property.

Pictured: An artist’s impression of the interior of the refurbished Portumna Courthouse.