A historic chapel in Monaghan town on the grounds of a former convent is to be redeveloped as part of a €7 million plan.
St Louis Chapel sits on 21 acres of land acquired by Monaghan County Council in 2024.
The land was the former home of the St Louis convent, nursing home and national school as well as a lake and forest grounds.
A contract has now been signed between Monaghan County Council and the Northern and Western Regional Assembly (NWRA) to secure the multi million euro investment.
NWRA is one of three regional assemblies in Ireland working with stakeholders at EU, national, regional and local level to optimise regional development.
The funding is being provided through the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme (THRIVE), which is co-funded by the Government and the EU.
The redevelopment project will see the long-derelict chapel restored and brought back into active use, to include a multi-purpose performance and event space, exhibition areas and a café.
The project will also improve pedestrian connectivity between the St Louis lands and the town centre.
'Major milestone'
The announcement has been described as a "major milestone" for Monaghan.
PJ O'Hanlon, Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council said that St Louis Chapel is one of the town's "most meaningful heritage assets".
"Securing this level of investment is a strong statement of confidence in our future. It shows what can be achieved when community vision, collaboration, and long-term planning come together, and I am delighted to see this project moving firmly into delivery."
Robert Burns, Chief Executive of the council said a project involving protected structures demand careful planning, strong financial backing and a clear strategy for conservation and adaptation.
"This investment provides the certainty required to proceed with design, statutory approvals, procurement and construction, ensuring that the restored chapel will be both architecturally respectful and of lasting value to the community," he said.
