Interview on Local Radio: 29.08.25

Catriona joined Ana on Claremorris Community Radio (CCR946.ie) on Friday 29th August, to share the latest project updates. 

On Monday 1st September, Catriona also spoke about the development to Midwest Radio's Rowan Kelly. You can listen back here.

Planning Application Submitted: 22.08.25

At the end of August 2025, the project reached a major milestone with the submission of a planning application to Mayo County Council.

With the submission of a planning application now in place, the project is another step closer to being 'shovel-ready' - a key criteria for any State funding application. The committee looks forward to engaging further with Minister Dara Calleary on the Community Centres Investment Fund - New Builds Measure, which was set up by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht in 2023 to invest in new and ambitious community projects. 

"The speed of project progress is not just about a dedicated team driving it - it reflects the critical need and urgency for this development in Claremorris", stated Catriona Doherty, co-chair of the project's committee.

She added: "For an organisation that was only established as a company by limited guarantee in June 2024, the level of awareness and buy-in from the community, public officials, local sporting clubs and national sporting bodies, as well as youth and community organisations is incredible. The achievement of so many critical milestones in such a short timeframe is a response to the urgent need for this development - it's one that not only opens doors to the establishment of new sporting clubs for Claremorris, but also delivers an accessible and inclusive amenity that serves the youth and a variety of community groups that currently do not have a space to call home in the town."

The Committee would like to express their sincere gratitude to Claremorris GAA Club, who have kindly donated the land for this project, and Waldron & Associates who have donated their time to develop the Architectural design and planning application. Their generosity has made it possible for the development to progress.

Charity Concert: 21.11.25

Tony Christie, the legendary singer, musician and actor is set to pay a memorable visit to the town of his forefathers with a special 'Farewell to Amarillo' Tour Concert finale at Claremorris Town Hall Theatre on Friday, 21st November 2025. This will be his only show outside Dublin.

Ticket prices are from €45 (standard) to €100 (premium) plus booking fees, with doors open from 7pm, and the concert starting at 8pm. Book your tickets here.

Premium ticket purchasers will enjoy a VIP package, including a special 'Meet & Greet' session with Tony after the Friday night show, front row seats at the concert, as well as a special gift bag with signed memorabilia. Tony and family members look forward to meeting each premium ticket holder – his ultimate fans.

Feasibility Study Phase 1: Jan-June '25

Thanks to all who participated in the process - completing the survey, participating in one-to-one interviews, or joining the community (round table) workshops.

Phase 1 of the study which focused on assessing the viability of the proposal is now complete. The findings provide a clear and substantive validation for the project and its mission.

The below key findings from the Community Survey which ran from January-February 2025, reveal some important insights:

• 87% of respondents felt that a new indoor sports and recreational facility for Claremorris is either 'critically needed' or 'important and needed'.
• Over 60% of respondents currently travel outside of Claremorris to access indoor sports and recreation facilities on a regular basis.
• The most popular indoor sports amongst respondents were Indoor Soccer (44%), Basketball (21%), Volleyball (19%) and Badminton (14%) - these key sports currently cannot be accommodated anywhere in the town

The final report identified that not only is there a significant need among community members for the facility, there is an opportunity to establish at least two, if not three, new sporting clubs for Claremorris with this development. The addition of these sports in Claremorris is also seen as a way to welcome and include people of all abilities, genders, and cultural backgrounds.

St Patrick's Day Parade: 16.03.25

The Committee was delighted to join the hugely successful St Patrick's Day celebrations in the town on Sunday 16th March.

The day was perfectly rounded off with the Hooley in the Hall, a night of traditional music and dance in the Town Hall Theatre. Proceeds from the concert went to the project. Huge thanks to the musicians for being so generous with their time and talent. Read more.

Lip Sync 'Thank You' Night: 30.05.25

We joined Claremorris Community Radio to chat about the Lip Sync Thank You Night, taking place on Friday, 30th May at 8pm in The Ranch Bar.

Thanks to Conor at The Ranch Bar for hosting us so generously, and to super-talented Joan Glavey for the amazing celebratory cake.

Lip Sync Battles Fundraiser: 22.02.25

On Saturday, 22nd February 2025, at the McWilliam Park Hotel, community groups from across Claremorris came together for the project's inaugural fundraiser: A Lip Sync Battle, which raised €153,000.

A huge thanks to all involved - the acts performing, business sponsors, and the community at large for their generous donations. #inthistogether.

Well done to the winners, Foróige Fever, who gave an energetic and entertaining performance, as well as raising over €27k as a group!

See below for an image gallery from the show. Read the full story from the night here.