Local Fine Gael councillor John Naughten has welcomed confirmation of an allocation of €250,000 in funding for a community park in Monksland as well as news that Minister Heather Humphreys will now perform the official opening of the new science and innovation hub.
“I welcome the news that Minister Humphreys will be performing the official opening of the science and innovation hub in Monksland next month,” Cllr Naughten said. “This is a project that I am delighted to have been involved with, working in conjunction with Roscommon County Council and the Monksland Town Team.
“The development of a science and innovation hub will add significantly to the economic development of the area and will offer opportunities to start-up businesses to operate in a collaborative space with the availability of hot-desking facilities and highspeed broadband.
“I also welcome the additional €250,000 funding that has been allocated for the development of a community park in Monksland. This brings the total funding allocated to €500,000 for the completion of phases one and two of the park which is much needed in the area and will provide an important community recreational space.
“I would like to acknowledge the work of Roscommon County Council, Monksland Town Team and Cathaoirleach Cllr John Keogh in progressing this project to date,” Cllr Naughten concluded.
His words were echoed by local Fine Gael Senator, Aisling Dolan, who noted that community park in Monksland, when developed, would be a “green heart” for the local community.
“This sizeable allocation to further develop Monksland Centre Park is most welcome news,” she added. “This green heart for the local community is located close to the Primary Care Centre and will include an outdoor performance area, mini skate park, as well as walkways and picnic areas.
“Now in phase two of the project, Monksland has attracted funding to develop a multi-purpose hub connected to the park and a potential place for the arts, dance studios, a library and workshops.
“I wish to acknowledge the fantastic contribution by local community members who have contributed to the design plans through public consultation hosted by Roscommon County Council in conjunction the Monksland Town Team, as well as positive engagement with councillors in Athlone Municipal District including my colleague Cllr John Naughten who is a strong advocate for this project.
“Over the past number of years we have witnessed substantial levels of Government investment through Minister Humphreys’ Department of Rural & Community Development towards the enhancement of Monksland.
“The ‘Putting the Heart Into Monksland’ project investment of €1,508,930 included match funding from Roscommon County Council under the Rural Regeneration Development Fund (RRDF ) was combined with Towns & Villages funding of €500,000 in 2022.
“Now, this additional announcement of €250,000 in funding brings the allocation to €2.2 million for the Centre Park and Community Hub in Monksland which will benefit the wider area and 4,500 people living in this part of Athlone,” Senator Dolan stated.
