The European Regional Development Fund have granted €1,47 million to help with the rejuvenation/development of the Castle and Cultural Quarter. this is a great boost for all the staff and stakeholders involved in the project.
Just after the local election I had a meeting with the Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, I brought up the issue of the run down state of our town.
I informed the chief executive about the many complaints that I received while out canvassing for the local elections.
I would like to acknowledge the positive commitment of the Chief Executive Mr Paul Reid to rectifying the problem with the Castle as well as the Main Street.
I have supported the allocation of funds the from our budget to help with the restoration works on the Castle and I will continue to support the creation of a Cultural/Civic Quarter
I have attended numerous consultations and I have put forward my vision for for the inclusion of a theatre/civic space to be included in the Cultural Quarter.
Letter from The Chief Executive Below:
The Council in making its application, proposed three key elements of the Swords Castle development.
1. Works to up-grade Swords Castle as an all year round venue capable of hosting planned events which will be more accessible as both a heritage tourist attraction and public amenity.
2. Derelict buildings on North Street which partially block access around the Castle will be redeveloped to provide public facilities including interpretation of the cultural significance of the Castle area, tourism information and a pedestrianised heritage route along the East wall of the Castle.
3. A public realm strategy will be developed and implemented in front of the Swords Castle at the junction of Main Street and North Street. The projects will be completed within the 3 year programme of the scheme with a combined cost estimate of 3million.
This is a great boost the relevant staff concerned who put a lot of work into our submission. It will also prove to be a huge boost for Swords and our overall Cultural Plan for the town. We will continue to keep you updated as these plans progress.
Regards,
Paul Reid
Chief Executive (Designated Public Official under the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015)
Comhairle Contae Fhine Gall
Fingal County Council
County Hall, Swords
Fingal
Co. Dublin
Eircode: K67 X8Y2