Portumna, Co. Galway – 25th June 2025 – Following a transformative €3.2 million restoration, the historic Portumna Courthouse has officially reopened its doors, reimagined as a dynamic arts, community and enterprise centre that blends the town’s rich heritage with a bold vision for the future.  

The transformation, spearheaded by Galway County Council and primarily funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, marks a major milestone in the cultural and economic revitalisation of Portumna and the wider region.  

Speaking at the official launch earlier today, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports Seán Canney TD said: “The reopening of Portumna Courthouse is a living expression of Our Rural Future in action, revitalising not just buildings, but the social and economic fabric of rural towns. This project reflects our commitment to regional development, digital connectivity, and community-led regeneration. It’s about ensuring that places like Portumna are not just preserved, but positioned to thrive in a modern, connected Ireland.”  

The Minister added, “With the support of over €2.9 million from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, this project has brought a historic courthouse in the town centre back to life, to provide a transformative facility for the community and beyond. This is what the RRDF is all about – tackling vacancy and dereliction and breathing new life into our rural town centres.” 

Originally granted planning approval in December 2020, the restoration has meticulously preserved the courthouse’s architectural integrity. Visitors will be greeted by original features including the stately judicial canopy, authentic flagstone floors, the original stone staircase and iron railings, and a host of carefully restored interior elements that honour the building’s storied past.  

Newly appointed Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins, said, “Today marks a proud and transformative moment for Portumna and for County Galway. The reopening of this historic courthouse as a vibrant hub for arts, enterprise, and community is a testament to what can be achieved through vision, collaboration, and commitment to rural regeneration. This space will not only honour our past but inspire our future, empowering creativity, connection, and opportunity for generations to come.” 

Speaking at the launch event, Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, praised the project’s impact. He said “This is a shining example of how strategic investment in rural infrastructure can breathe new life into historic spaces. Portumna Courthouse is no longer just a preserved landmark, it’s a living, thriving centre for creativity, enterprise, and community.”  

Now fully reimagined, the courthouse will serve as a vibrant venue for visual arts, music, performance, and cultural events. It also features modern remote working facilities and a fully equipped boardroom, offering a professional environment for both local entrepreneurs and visiting professionals.  

Liam Hanrahan, Director of Services at Galway County Council, acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the project. He said, “This transformation is the result of extraordinary vision, dedication, and partnership. Every detail of the building reflects the care and commitment of those who brought it back to life.”  

A standout addition to the redevelopment is a newly constructed café with scenic terraces, offering a welcoming social space for locals and visitors alike.  

The courthouse’s new chapter will begin with Shorelines25, a week-long celebration of local and national artistic talent. The festival promises to set the tone for the venue’s future as a cultural heartbeat for the region.  

As part of Galway County Council’s comprehensive Urban and Rural Regeneration Strategy, a series of transformative projects are currently underway to revitalise communities across the county. Among the flagship initiatives is the redevelopment of Loughrea Town Hall, which is on track for completion within the next year, and the rejuvenation of Tuam Station, which recently received planning approval.  

Further regeneration efforts are progressing in Athenry, with enhancements to a recently purchased property on Burkes Lane, and in Tuam, where works are advancing on the historic Town Hall. These projects reflect the Council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the social, cultural, and economic fabric of towns and villages throughout County Galway. This commitment is also evident in the Clifden Town Centre and Loughrea Long Point Enhancement projects, which are currently progressing through the planning process.