Longford County Council has secured €7 million in funding for the redevelopment of Connolly Barracks, paving the way for construction work to begin on the long-vacant military site in Longford Town.

The project will be delivered under the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme (THRIVE Strand 2), a €90 million EU-backed programme co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme 2021–27.

The funding allows the council to move immediately to tender stage, following the completion of design works supported by last year's €200,000 THRIVE allocation.

The redevelopment will involve the conservation and adaptation of the barracks buildings, which have been unused since the Army left in 2009. Plans include a county museum, community café, creative makerspace, podcast and recording studio, meeting rooms, and music facilities. A new rear extension will provide a flexible conference and performance space, alongside training facilities. The project also incorporates accessibility upgrades, installation of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, and improvements to surrounding public spaces.

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Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Garry Murtagh welcomed the announcement: "Connolly Barracks has stood silent for too long. This funding transforms a symbol of the past into a beacon for our future – a space where history meets innovation, where tradition embraces change. It will allow the northern end of Longford Town to once again buzz with activity, drawing people back to the heart of our town and creating opportunities for everyone who calls Longford home."

Director of Services John Brannigan, who spearheaded the successful application, added: "The investment of €7 million through THRIVE funding for the Connolly Barracks regeneration represents a flagship model of sustainable, inclusive, and heritage-sensitive urban transformation. It exemplifies the spirit of the New European Bauhaus, bringing beauty, resilience, and social cohesion into the heart of Longford. This project will revitalise our town, empower our people, and celebrate our rich cultural heritage whilst creating shared spaces for our diverse communities to thrive together."

The restoration will be carried out in line with best practice conservation standards and will respond to Longford's growing and diverse population. In addition to creating a shared community and cultural facility, the project is expected to generate employment during and after construction, support local tourism, and provide opportunities for business.

The redevelopment has been fully supported by Elected Members and Longford Municipal District representatives. Construction is expected to begin following completion of the tender process, with the redeveloped barracks set to play a central role in the town's community and cultural life.