Major step forward for Carndonagh’s much-anticipated €9.5 million Tús Nua project

In a major breakthrough for North Inishowen, Carndonagh’s €9.5 million Tús Nua regeneration project has received pre-tender approval for main works contracts from the Department of Rural and Community Development.

It is envisaged that the construction tenders for the project, which is being funded through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, will be advertised in October 2025.

Welcoming the approval confirmation, Donegal Minister of State, Charlie McConalogue, said: “This is a project that has been in the pipeline for quite a while, and one which I am keen to see getting started. I very much welcome this development and look forward to the works getting underway.”

“This project is being spearheaded by Spraoi Agus Spórt and Donegal County Council. I commend Spraoi Agus Spórt, which does so much to help the community and enhance opportunities in the locality, and thank Donegal County Council for its support and assistance,” the Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy added.

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The Tús Nua project will see the transformation of the old McDonagh Stores building into a creative and digital hub and a new remote working centre.

“It’s going to see the development of a new space behind McDonagh Stores for the youth to come together. It will also include the provision of a new pedestrian street that will link the town centre with SuperValu,” Minister McConalogue explained.

“This is a massive investment in the town of Carndonagh, which has been at the heart of trading in North Inishowen for many years. The regeneration of Carndonagh’s town centre is vital for the future of the town, and these works will make a massive difference. It will also serve to build on the tremendous work of the Carndonagh Traders’ Association.”

“Thanks to Cllr Martin McDermott for his work on this project, and to Minister for Rural and Community Development, Dara Calleary, and his officials for their help and assistance in getting it to this stage,” Minister McConalogue added.