Planning approved for new Rathmullan Community Hub - Donegal Daily

Plans for a major new community hub in Rathmullan have taken an important step forward after receiving Part 8 planning approval.The proposed development on comm...

Plans for a major new community hub in Rathmullan have taken an important step forward after receiving Part 8 planning approval.

The proposed development on community lands at the RDRC Coastguard Station will replace the existing community building and changing rooms at Coastguard Station Road.

The project is now ready to seek funding under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.

Visualisation of the Proposed Rathmullan Community Building at Coastguard Station Road, Rathmullan. Architects: Robin Lee

Councillor Pauric McGarvey, who proposed the approval, welcomed the decision made at Monday's plenary council meeting.

He said: “I would like to thank the Regeneration team of DCC for their hard work in working together to achieve the project to this stage in such a tight timeframe, the elected members for backing my proposal to keeping Rathmullan prioritised for the RRDF in January and also Architect Robin Lee for the fantastic work!”

The development will include a multi-purpose community hall, café and social space, offices, meeting rooms, toilets, changing and shower facilities, a Changing Places facility and a treatment or sensory space.

Plans also provide for a new entrance plaza, a 43-space car park, seven motorhome and caravan spaces and a new Astro playing facility, alongside access to the existing football field and tennis court.

A roof terrace offering views across Rathmullan and Lough Swilly is also proposed.

Michael Langan helps students find ‘safe space’ through Man United Foundation role

The facility has been designed to accommodate local groups, sports clubs, young people, visitors, community gatherings, markets, exhibitions and other events.

Traffic-calming measures, improved pedestrian facilities and a new courtesy crossing connecting the hub with Kerr’s Bay, the beach car park, playground and Rathmullan Pier also form part of the project.

The hub is intended to become a central focal point in the village while supporting increased activity, footfall and opportunities for local businesses.

A recent public consultation process received a number of practical requests.

Members of the public asked for assurance that the Astro pitch could meet the dimensions required for underage league games. The council confirmed that the proposed Astro dimensions would be adjusted during the detailed design stage.

Requests were also made for a dedicated space for play therapy, along with facilities to support first responder training, youth activities, cultural events, workshops and visiting sports teams.

Another request called for consideration of a medical treatment room and suitable ambulance access and a dedicated ambulance bay. The council stated that ambulance access, clearways and public lighting are already addressed through conditions attached to the planning approval.