Limerick City and County Council has secured over €1.2 million in funding from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) to progress construction and restoration projects in Kilmallock and Rathkeale.

The funding will support detailed design, planning, and preparatory work, bringing both projects to shovel-ready status ahead of future capital investment.

The Merchant's House site in Kilmallock has been allocated €886,200. The project involves restoring two sections of the derelict building into multi-functional spaces suitable for enterprise and community use. The Office of Public Works and the National Monuments Service will oversee the consolidation and presentation of the late medieval Merchant’s House at the street front.

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In Rathkeale, €346,500 has been allocated to the Former Bank of Ireland building, a Protected Structure. The building will be repurposed to provide office units, co-working spaces, and shared community areas, supporting local enterprise and social inclusion.

These projects form part of a wider national investment of €20.5 million across 30 rural regeneration initiatives.

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said the funding allows the council to continue progress on projects that will revitalise these historic buildings and provide functional spaces for economic and community use. Príomh Chomhairleoir Cllr Catherine Slattery highlighted the collaborative approach between the Council and local stakeholders in shaping the proposals. Director General Dr Pat Daly emphasised the Council’s commitment to working with communities to ensure the projects meet local needs and aspirations.

Limerick City and County Council continues to support rural regeneration, delivering projects that enhance both infrastructure and economic opportunity across the county.