In a significant step towards transforming a fire-damaged and long-derelict building in Ballygar, Cllr Evelyn Parsons has made formal requests for the acquisition and redevelopment of the former HSE building beside Ballygar Garda Station. The building, which was extensively damaged by fire in February 2021, has since become an eyesore and a source of frustration for the community.
Cllr Parsons first raised the issue at the Regional Health Forum in February, and again in March, subsequently engaging directly with the HSE and advocating on an ongoing basis on behalf of the Ballygar community resulting in agreement by HSE to liaise with community representatives on potential next steps for the building.
“I fully support the Ballygar Tidy Towns and Ballygar community’s request to transform this site into a valuable community resource. As it stands, the derelict building is a blight on the streetscape of Ballygar, a town where local groups work tirelessly to keep it beautiful,” said Cllr Evelyn Parsons Independent
Cllr Evelyn Parsons has liaised on an ongoing basis with Galway County Council (GCC ) requesting they submit an expression of interest to acquire the site from HSE for a much-needed community hub and expanded library service.
The vision for the redevelopment includes a Reading Room, Sensory Room, Local Information/Tourist Center, Internet access, and a One Stop Shop for other community activities.
Ballygar’s local schools—including three primary schools, a secondary school, and multiple early education centers—are home to 500-600 children, and the town is a diverse community with members of the traveling community, East European migrants, Ukrainians, and Africans all contributing to its vibrant social fabric. These facilities would greatly benefit this growing and diverse population.
“I am pleased to have received confirmation from the Director of Services for Rural & Community Development that Galway County Council is examining this matter with a view to acquisition and refurbishment of the site under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. This initiative would represent a key opportunity to revitalize a central derelict site in Ballygar and provide a lasting community asset for the town’s future development.
“I am strongly in support of the Ballygar community as it would be transformative to have community facilities available in the area and have consistently called on the GCC to support the acquisition of the site, an action which aligns with the broader objectives of tackling dereliction while providing much needed community-use facilities in Ballygar to support a wide range of community initiatives, “ Cllr Evelyn Parsons added.
