New Community Centre Nears Completion in Meakstown
The opening of the new Meakstown Community Centre in Dublin 11 is edging ever closer as Fingal County Council were handed keys to the state-of-the-art facility ahead of its final fit-out.
This new community hub represents a substantial investment by Fingal County Council and is the result of over a decade of tireless work by local volunteers and political representatives who recognised the need for a multi-purpose community facility in the area. The building’s circular design, green brickwork, and grassy roof showcase its innovative features and contemporary infrastructure.
Local community volunteers, alongside Fingal County Council’s Community Development Department, have worked together to establish a new volunteer Board of Management that will oversee the management of the community centre. Apleona Ireland will oversee the day-to-day operations of the community centre on behalf of the Council once the fit-out is complete. The recruitment process for the centre’s operations team is already underway.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Brian McDonagh, emphasised: “This marks a significant step forward. The unique design fits perfectly within the park setting, and I look forward to seeing the completed fit-out in October.”
Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, Ann Marie Farrelly, stated: “I’m delighted to see the centre ready for final fit-out. This represents years of dedication from volunteers, politicians, and our staff and marks a significant investment by Fingal County Council. It is a fabulous building that will be a real community hub for the area.”
Paul Carroll, Director of Housing and Community Development, added: “This facility will be a vital hub for the local community, offering high-quality spaces for meetings, sports, community, and cultural activities. It’s a testament to the local community and to Fingal County Council’s commitment to supporting those communities, and I believe this centre will become the heart of Meakstown.”
The €7.5million project has brought together a skilled team, including Henchion Reuter Architects, Roughan & O'Donovan Consulting Engineers, Matt O'Mahony & Associates, and Walsh Associates, with Vision Contracting undertaking construction of the energy-efficient circular building.
It is expected that the Meakstown Community Centre will officially open this October, ushering in a new chapter for residents in the area and delivering:
- A three-court sports hall
- Four large multipurpose rooms for activities such as dance classes, yoga sessions, Pilates, training workshops, and community meetings
- An inclusive Changing Places facility
- Parking provision for 40 bicycles, including electric bikes, cargo bikes, and scooters
This facility is part of the wider development of Lanesborough Park, which will deliver outdoor play and fitness spaces for the community.
