Four projects in County Cork are set to move forward with new funding under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.

Approximately €893,001 was awarded to projects in Cobh, Mitchelstown, Kiskeam and Castletownbere.

This will support the development of town centre Remote Working Hubs at Cobh and Mitchelstown Libraries, including Hot Desks, Offices and Meeting Facilities. In the village of Kiskeam, the Cork County Council will work in conjunction with An Post to revitalise a currently vacant property adjoining the post office into a hot desking facility for remote workers.

In West Cork, an underused town centre site in Castletownbere is set to be transformed into an inviting and accessible 'pocket park'.

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Welcoming the announcement, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Gillian Coughlan said: "Many towns and villages have suffered greatly as a result of the pandemic; however, we have also seen a renewed appreciation of rural living and shift towards remote or blended working. This investment will see public realm improvements, as well as the development of three new centres for remote working. I am certain that these projects will serve to improve quality of life for residents, attract new business, encourage visitors and ultimately provide an economic boost for Cork County."

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey added: "Cork County Council has recently adopted a Hub Development Strategy for 2021 -2026. The roadmap for this strategy involves the development of flagship demonstrator sites strategically located across the county. The funding received from the Town and Village Renewal Scheme will support three key projects, from the development of our Libraries in Cobh and Mitchelstown to working with An Post to transform a vacant building in the village of Kiskeam. The Hubs will provide high quality central locations for remote workers, post start-up companies, entrepreneurs and businesses looking for a fast landing site or looking to locate a second site operation."