€3.3 million has been secured for the renovation of the courthouse in Borris-in-Ossory to turn it into a digital hub.
Local Fine Gael Councillor Conor Bergin said: “This is a huge announcement for Borris in Ossory, the proposed renovation of the courthouse has been a major local issue for over 20 years since it closed.”
The building will be transformed from a derelict building into a modern multi purpose facility which will facilitate remote working for 15 to 17 people.
A new modern wing will also be extended to the Courthouse which has the potential to be used as a coffee shop or a tea room.
Minister of State, Sean Fleming also welcomed the redevelopment scheme in Borris in Ossory.
He said: “This is very welcome news for Borris-in-Ossory and the surrounding areas. This Government funding will transform the historic Courthouse in the village and put it back into use”.
“Working at home may not be ideal, with perhaps too many distractions or not a suitable workspace. The Borris-in-Ossory Courthouse project may be the solution”.
These funds have been secured through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund where Humphrey’s department allocated Borris the funds under category one of the programme.
Laois County Council were successful in 2022 in category 2 and 3 of the programme where they secured €212,332.
Renovation plans were initially unveiled to the public in March 2023 and planning permission was granted in October of the same year.
It is once again hoped that this building will have a permanent use in the village.
The courthouse has huge historical significance in Borris. Originally constructed in 1835 where ‘petty sessions’ were held.
These were the lowest tier in the court system and usually involved cases such as drunkenness or minor theft, which were held in the court in the early 1900’s.
The original courthouse roof was burned off in the War of Independence in 1921 and has not had a sitting court since the 1950’s.
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