Construction on Glenbrohane’s Hub halted, but other work continues

Construction may have temporarily halted but other important work still continues to ensure that the Local Hub in Glenbrohane will be delivered on time over the summer period.

The new Local Hub facility is located next to the existing community hall in the south Limerick village and comprises of two buildings: the main Hub building (formerly ‘The Sliabh Riadh’ public house which has been redeveloped) and ‘The Hobby House’, a brand-new multi-purpose building at the rear of the site. A green area with seating and a car park are located between these two buildings.

“Glenbrohane, like many other rural Irish villages, has been in decline for many years now,” explains Grace Moore, chairperson of the Local Hub committee.

“The pub closed and then a local shop also closed; spaces that provided a place for neighbours and friends to physically meet up had become few and far between. Glenbrohane had gradually become a very quiet place. The situation was negatively affecting people’s mental health, something needed to be done to save our lovely village from disappearing.”

RURAL REGENERATION

The Hub will become the new focal point for community life in Glenbrohane; it will also provide a welcoming space for visitors to this beautiful scenic area on the side of the Sliabh Riadh. The ‘Grub at the Hub’ café and shop make it the perfect place to relax and have tea or lunch with friends or just pop by to get some essential groceries or browse through the locally produced crafts or products.

“At the moment we are concentrating on raising awareness of the Hub and on drawing up a training and events schedule for autumn 2021,” explains Grace.

“We plan to offer piano lessons and courses such as furniture making and dress making in the Hobby House; yoga and mindfulness classes will be run between the Hub and Meditation Garden, located at the rear of the community hall. We will also be holding some family fun days for Hallowe’en and Christmas, if Covid restrictions allow.”

The Local Hub is currently looking for a catering operator to run the ‘Grub at the Hub’ café and shop. The operator will also be welcome to use the kitchen facilities as a base for a bakery, catering or food delivery business. For more information and viewings, please contact Grace Moore at thelocalhub@ yahoo.com or 087-4153160.

This project is being funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.