Concluding her impactful visit to County Laois, Minister Heather Humphreys unveiled the commencement of the long-awaited refurbishment works for the historic Market House in Portarlington. The Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council Mr Paschal Mc Evoy, said “This momentous project promises to breathe new life into the town and bolster its vibrant community. This restoration endeavour serves as a testament to the commitment of Laois County Council towards the sustainable development of Portarlington and its communities. The Portarlington Market House, with a rich history spanning nearly 300 years, has played various roles in the town’s evolution, from a Market House and Courthouse to a Town Hall and even a garage. The project’s vision entails the meticulous refurbishment and repurposing of the Market House building, transforming it into an inviting space that will host meeting rooms, offices, and other facilities for public use. The refurbished building will seamlessly integrate with the surrounding public space, becoming a catalyst for the regeneration of the Square, and making a significant contribution to the vibrant town of Portarlington. The Portarlington Market House restoration represents a harmonious blend of history and progress. It cherishes the heritage of the past while breathing new life into a treasured landmark, ensuring that it remains a focal point for the community for generations to come”.
Mr Gerry Murphy, Deputy Chief Executive of Laois County Council concluded the speeches, saying: “This is a project that will bring huge dividends to the town of Portarlington and the surrounding area. There has been a number of stages to where we are today. The biggest stage was the signing of a 30-year lease. We then went into the next phase which was the preperation of a regenerative strategy for the town, called The Portarlington Regeneration Strategy 2040. We then brought the project to tender phase; and we expect to finalise the appointment of the contractor towards the end of next week, and to be in a position to commence work very, very shortly.
In her closing statement, the Minister reaffirmed her commitment to creating conducive conditions for people to thrive in rural towns and villages. Her tireless efforts are geared towards fostering vibrant communities, encouraging sustainable growth, and providing enriching opportunities for all citizens to flourish.