The Schoolhouse Community and Enterprise Centre

Anyone who knows Rathvilly is familiar with the building known as the Phoenix Centre. Some know its history – former factory, school that Kevin Barry attended – but all know of its importance within the community. From the Whist evenings to Forige meetings – it has catered for all within the community and all of us have used it at some point. Now the building needs your help to survive so that future generations will have the same benefits that we have had from having such a place within our community.

In 2020 a group was formed following a public meeting in the village, the purpose being to access funding to redevelop and revitalise the Phoenix Centre. In 2022, with Carlow County Council, we applied for funding through the Rural Regeneration Fund which produced plans and an application for planning permission was lodged. The next stage is a further application to the Rural Regeneration Fund to move forward with those plans, to bring dream to reality. The total cost is estimated in excess of €2 million. This will be the biggest community project ever to be undertaken in Rathvilly! It will provide a safe, functional and modern space for all who live in our community as well as for new businesses to perhaps take root in our village.

We are asking for your support to ensure that this vital project for our community is approved for funding and that we have the financial means to complete and sustain it into the future.

We have to provide €400,000 towards the cost of the development. We have so far secured €200,000 leaving a shortfall of a further €200,000. It is imperative that we keep any borrowings to a minimum to ensure the granting of funding and future viability of this exciting development within our village. With this in mind we are aiming to raise as much money as possible prior to the completion and opening of the new centre.

We need this building in our community, it is vital space for the running of so many community events, meetings, classes and groups. We miss its presence in our village. We know how important it is. We want it back being an integral part of our community and to ensure that the building is there for future generations to use and enjoy. This chance to develop the building is a once in a lifetime opportunity! To succeed we need as many donations as possible - every little helps!