Former Donard Health Centre Secured for Community Use with 30-Year Lease
The future of the former Donard Health Centre has been secured following a unanimous decision by Wicklow County Council to approve its disposal by way of a 30-year lease to Donard Community Enterprises CLG, with the formal handover of the keys to the community group.
The decision brings an end to a prolonged period of uncertainty surrounding the building and marks a significant achievement for the Donard community, who campaigned to ensure the facility remained in public use.
In the months following the closure of the centre, a coordinated effort was undertaken by residents, community groups, elected representatives, and council officials to explore options for the building’s future. Recognising the risk that the property could be lost to private ownership, the community mobilised quickly holding meetings, developing proposals, and presenting a unified case that emphasised the importance of retaining the building as a public asset.
The handover of keys to Donard Community Enterprises CLG represents an important milestone, formally placing the building in the care of the community and allowing plans for its future use to move forward.
Cathaoirleach of Baltinglass Municipal District Cllr. Avril Cronin welcomed the decision and praised the collaborative approach that helped secure the outcome, “It’s great to see that this building, in the heart of Donard village, will now go into the hands of Donard Community Enterprises, so it will remain in the community for community use. It’s a huge asset to this rural area. I have worked alongside the local groups in Donard / The Glen over the past number of months on this and their united and collaborative approach to secure this building for the community must be commended. I would also like to thank Wicklow County Council for all their support in this process”.
Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, emphasised the importance of community hubs in empowering local community groups that deliver vital activities and services across the county. Such facilities play a key role in strengthening connections and supporting inclusive local development, commenting, “This Community Hub will provide a focal point for the community to come together, collaborate, and support one another. Together, we are building stronger and more vibrant communities.”
The transfer of the building represents a major step forward for Donard - a village that, like many rural communities, has faced ongoing challenges in maintaining essential services and infrastructure. The decision reinforces the importance of supporting rural sustainability and safeguarding vital local amenities.
Early discussions are already underway regarding the future use of the site. Plans are being explored to transform the building into a multi-purpose community hub, with potential uses including meeting rooms, social and cultural spaces, facilities for local clubs, and services designed to address gaps left by the closure of the health centre.
The initiative is expected to play a key role in strengthening community life in Donard for years to come.