Derelict property in heart of Galway town transformed into new building
The plan is being advanced through Galway County Council’s Part 8 planning process and the Council will seek project funding under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme in 2027
A visionary plan has been unveiled to transform a derelict property in the heart of Loughrea into a new multi-purpose community facility and outdoor market space.
Galway County Council's development of the Market Yard on Church Street is designed to support town centre regeneration, strengthen local trading and provide a vibrant new space for community activities and events.
The proposed development involves the demolition of an existing derelict property and its replacement with a contemporary structure that reflects the scale, proportions and architectural presence of the original building.
The scheme will create a sheltered space for outdoor traders, performances and community events, complementing the recently renovated Loughrea Town Hall and expanding its potential as a focal point for cultural and civic life in the town.
The plan is being advanced through Galway County Council’s Part 8 planning process. The Council will seek project funding under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme in 2027.
The new facility is intended to help encourage greater footfall and support the wider economic vitality of Loughrea town centre.
In addition to markets, the space will accommodate outdoor performances, community gatherings and other activities associated with the Town Hall, helping to create a more active and welcoming town centre throughout the week.
“The proposed Market Yard represents an important opportunity to build on the investment already made in the restoration of Loughrea Town Hall (approaching completion) and to extend the benefits of that regeneration into the surrounding public realm," said Liam Hanrahan, Director of Services, Galway County Council.
The design has been developed with consideration of the site’s location within the Loughrea Architectural Conservation Area and its relationship with the protected Town Hall structure.
Its contemporary façade will incorporate vertical timber elements that reference the original window openings, creating a visual connection with the historic streetscape while allowing the building to open towards the Market Yard behind.
Both the Church Street façade and the rear façade will be capable of opening, allowing the sheltered space to connect directly with the courtyard. This will facilitate market trading, outdoor performances and larger community gatherings, while maintaining a strong visual and physical relationship between the street and new public space.