Approval granted for visitor experience at old Letterkenny Courthouse

Donegal County Councillors have given approval for the extension and modification of the old Letterkenny Courthouse to develop a new visitor experience.

The former Courthouse, a protected structure built between 1828 and 1831, has been vacant since 2018.

Plans for the revamped building will feature multi-functional spaces for a tourist/visitor attraction, an integrated Tourist Information Point, exhibitions, conferences, education, civic and cultural use, a café, and a retail/gift shop.

Architectural plans for the project by Robin Lee Architecture

The Chief Executive's report to councillors said that the development of a major tourist attraction at the former Courthouse will act as both an anchor and as a driver of growth in visitor numbers to the historic town centre, activating a currently underperforming sector of the town's economy.

"Once the project is completed, it will be a key offering and strategic tourism asset providing a vibrant hub of activity in the heart of the town and contributing to meeting the needs of the wider Letterkenny community," the report said.

READ NEXT: Malin Head omission blocks Donegal tourism strategy

Following the granting of Part 8 approval, the project will be developed forward as a shovel ready proposal for capital funding under the EU THRIVE programme, Strand 2 call which is currently open.