Category One – Population Category 0 – 300
Winner: Ballinadee, Co Cork
Summary:
Ballinadee Community Hall Development Association was formed in 2016 to reopen the derelict village hall. The hall was originally built in 1954 by a determined Muintir Na Tíre group on land that was donated by a local farmer. The six-member committee immediately liaised with the wider community, activity groups, other community hall groups, local councillors, Cork County Council and attended PPN meetings. This small group got through a huge workload and qualified for Cork County Council grants, Leader Rural Development funding with SECAD’s support. The group raised over €65,000 in a short space of time. This funding and community spirt helped to build new friendships and the space for ideas and future planning for the Ballinadee area. In September 2019 the newly renovated hall opened and became once again a hub for Foróige, dancing, sports, music, meetings, markets, drama and a social space for parties and coffee mornings.
Community Contact: Aideen Walsh
Citation:
The refurbishment of a derelict community hall breathed new life into a community. It was clear to the judges from the outset that this group has built an incredible community spirit, an excellent communications strategy and an effective engagement approach with business and other stakeholders alike.
