Cork County Council has welcomed the Official Opening of the new Clonakilty Community Youth Centre. The purpose built, fully accessible Centre will play a vital role in empowering and supporting young people in the area, providing them with a safe, inclusive environment to meet.
The Centre, which has been made possible through the dedicated efforts of the Clonakilty Community Youth Centre Committee, received support from West Cork LCDC/LAG in partnership with SECAD Partnership CLG with LEADER funding. Cork County Council also provided the lease to the property at Larkin Street free of charge, paving the way for the establishment of this long-awaited Youth Centre.
With a total cost of €365,975, including a LEADER grant of €237,748, the project involved the extensive renovation and expansion of the existing dwelling to transform it into a state-of-the-art Community Youth Centre. The facility hosts three new activity rooms and a fully equipped kitchenette, where young people will be encouraged to cultivate their culinary skills. The space has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate a variety of youth groups and related activities.
The Centre is also set to house the local Foróige Branch in Clonakilty and will serve as the West Cork headquarters. This partnership will enable the delivery of leadership and volunteer programmes based on the Foróige model, encouraging leadership skills, personal development, and community engagement.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Frank O’Flynn welcomed the new facility for the wider Clonakilty area, saying, “the Clonakilty Community Youth Centre stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when communities unite with a common purpose. This facility will serve as a hub of inspiration, growth, and learning for our youth. It symbolises our commitment to nurturing talent, providing opportunities, and fostering a sense of belonging among our younger generation.”
Source: Cork County Council
