Plans to use Boyle’s Renbrack House as part of the local disability service must be carried out “sooner rather than later”.
At a HSE West Regional Health Forum, Cllr Sean Moylan had sought an update on the likely timeline for the disposal of the former mental health hostel, as a local voluntary childcare group had expressed strong interest in acquiring the building under favourable terms.
The group currently has no premises, and in order to access funding, it must be able to demonstrate that they are progressing within an existing building, he told the HSE in his written question.
“Their completed needs analysis indicates a significant unmet demand for childcare facilities in Boyle, and the availability of a suitable premises is critical to moving this project forward.”
In response, the HSE said the property is no longer for disposal as disability services have identified a need for the dwelling, with the HSE moving through the approvals and project funding requirements for this project.
Speaking at the forum, the Fianna Fáil politician said he was glad the building was going to be used for something.
“It has been vacant for quite some time. It is unfortunate the use we had hoped for isn’t going to happen, but at least the building is going to be used now.”
He asked that the building be brought back into use “sooner rather than later”.
