LVEB's ambitious plans for former church building in Macroom

WHEN the Church of Ireland building in Castle Street in Macroom ceased to be a place of worship, the church authorities handed over the deconsecrated building for the use of the local community. Over the years the building fell into disrepair and periodic emergency works were undertaken to keep the church in some reasonable state as plans were discussed to make a proper use of the fine historic building.

Cork County Council are now the owners of the building and the Lee Valley Enterprise Board have procured from them of a long-term lease on the building.  The LVEB has ambitious plans for the building, which include creating a Visual Arts Centre there, hosting a tourist information office, a Gearagh Interpretative Centre and creating a space for intimate musical recitals.  

The building could also be used for civic and awards ceremonies in the town. The plans are exciting and ambitious but will require major financing, the figure being quoted is €480000. 

The LVEB has begun the process of raising monies, and the proceeds of some recent productions in the Riverside Park Hotel have been placed in the fund for the restoration of the old church. 

In the late autumn, the LVEB will put on a production of ‘Grease' with the dual aim of promoting young talent in the area and of raising money of the restoration fund.