In tourism terms, there is perhaps no town in Ireland with a more strategic location than Cong, County Mayo. Nestled at the confluence of Lough Mask and Lough Corrib - two of the largest lakes on the island - Cong is bordered on all sides by flowing water.
Possessed of a unique and distinctly Connemara charm, this picturesque village can also boast the stately delights of Ashford Castle, along with a host of locations associated with John Ford’s classic film The Quiet Man.
The bustling village is also home to a thriving community life that finds expression in senior citizen initiatives, a drama society, dance and education courses, Yoga and Pilates classes and an Angling Club.
But existing facilities did not match the level of community activity or need, with some groups forced to utilise space in the local national school.
Thus, there was clear demand for a dedicated community space that could meet existing need while also affording room for development of new services and community initiatives.
A site was secured for the new community centre, with much of the finance coming from local fundraising events and Cong Community Centre Ltd was formed to manage the project.
The dedicated centre was to include an open plan exhibition area, along with meeting rooms, plus additional space that could be used as a day-care centre and to host social functions, with the centre having its own fully equipped kitchen.
Clann Credo provided financial support for the initiative, ensuring that it could be brought to completion and a valuable community asset created.
Location: Gortaroe, Co. Mayo
Website:
http://thecrossroads.ie/