New enterprise hub transforms historic Laois heritage building
Minister Dara Calleary officially opened the state-of-the-art DARÚ HQ in County Laois following a significant rural regeneration investment. The ambitious project breathes fresh life into a historic local landmark while delivering modern remote working and community facilities.
Source:
Gov.ie / MerrionStreet
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⏱️ 2 min read
A historic local landmark in County Laois has been thoughtfully transformed into a modern enterprise and community hub, championed by government funding aimed at revitalising rural towns. Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, officially opened DARÚ HQ in Durrow, a project backed by over €1.9 million through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. The development successfully blends heritage preservation with forward-thinking infrastructure by converting a former Methodist Chapel and ICA hall on Patrick Street into a multi-use facility featuring flexible workspace options, an event stage, and upgraded outdoor amenities complete with electric vehicle charging points.
Remote working desks within the facility can be conveniently booked via the connectedhubs.ie platform, providing local professionals and learners with state-of-the-art resources on their doorstep. During his visit, Minister Calleary also launched a fresh Call for Proposals under the 2026 Town and Village Renewal Scheme, offering up to €500,000 per project to further empower local authorities and communities. Furthermore, the ministerial itinerary included the official opening of the Durrow Community Cycling Trail, supported by nearly half a million euro from the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, alongside the debut of the new County Laois Outdoor Recreation Plan.
These strategic investments highlight a broader national drive to combat dereliction, boost sustainable tourism, and enhance regional wellbeing. By combining upgraded walking and cycling networks with innovative workspaces, the region is well-positioned to foster vibrant local economies and provide accessible amenities for both residents and visitors. Comprehensive details regarding funding schemes and upcoming community initiatives are available on the official government website.
Remote working desks within the facility can be conveniently booked via the connectedhubs.ie platform, providing local professionals and learners with state-of-the-art resources on their doorstep. During his visit, Minister Calleary also launched a fresh Call for Proposals under the 2026 Town and Village Renewal Scheme, offering up to €500,000 per project to further empower local authorities and communities. Furthermore, the ministerial itinerary included the official opening of the Durrow Community Cycling Trail, supported by nearly half a million euro from the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, alongside the debut of the new County Laois Outdoor Recreation Plan.
These strategic investments highlight a broader national drive to combat dereliction, boost sustainable tourism, and enhance regional wellbeing. By combining upgraded walking and cycling networks with innovative workspaces, the region is well-positioned to foster vibrant local economies and provide accessible amenities for both residents and visitors. Comprehensive details regarding funding schemes and upcoming community initiatives are available on the official government website.