Minister Dara Calleary hails Mayo project as a model for rural regeneration and innovation.
🏢 Historic Courthouse Transformed
On November 8, 2025, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD officially opened the Balla Community Enterprise Hub & Remote Working Space in County Mayo. The project, funded through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS), has redeveloped the town’s historic courthouse into a modern facility designed to support local enterprise, remote work, and community collaboration.
đź’¶ Investment in Rural Futures
In 2022, Mayo County Council secured €120,000 under TVRS to redevelop the vacant courthouse. The initiative was delivered in partnership with Balla Community Resources Development CLG and Mayo County Council. The investment aligns with national strategies such as Our Rural Future and Town Centre First, which aim to attract more people to live, work, and invest in rural towns.
đź“Ł Voices from the Opening
Minister Calleary described the hub as a “renewed chapter for a building etched in history”, noting its transformation from a courthouse into a space for connection, collaboration, and endeavour. He emphasized that the scheme continues to play a vital role in sustainable employment creation and town centre resilience.
Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Sean Carey, praised the community’s vision and collective effort: “Balla is leading the way in showcasing how small towns can drive innovation. This hub not only offers opportunities for business growth but also rejuvenates a significant building in the town’s history.”
🌍 Impact and Significance
The hub is expected to:
- Provide state-of-the-art facilities for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers.
- Strengthen local economic resilience by attracting investment and supporting job creation.
- Revitalize the town centre by breathing new life into a landmark building.
- Serve as a model for rural innovation, demonstrating how heritage spaces can be repurposed for modern needs.
In summary: The opening of the Balla Community Enterprise Hub marks a milestone in rural regeneration, blending heritage preservation with forward-looking innovation. With strong community backing and government support, Balla is positioning itself as a hub of opportunity and resilience in County Mayo.
Minister Dara Calleary Picture by Sam Boal
Source: Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht (Press Release, November 8, 2025).
