Moate fire station refurb to be completed by November

By Rebekah O'Reilly

A project which aims to turn Moate's old fire station into a community hub is set to be completed by November of this year.

Speaking at the March meeting of Athlone Moate Municipal District, Westmeath County Council's Head of Regeneration & Capital Projects Anne-Marie Corroon said the planning process is almost complete.

Late last year Westmeath County Council submitted plans for its community hub development at the long-vacant Main Street premises adjoining the town's library.

Under the Part 8 planning process used by local authorities for their own projects, the closing date for public submissions was on Tuesday, February 10.

The council hope to appoint a contractor for the project in May, with works expected to take place from May to August.

It is hoped the project will then be completed before November of this year.

Proposed works include the creation of an open-plan office space, incorporating a tea station and kitchen sink; upgrading the toilet facilities, with provision of a single unisex/accessible WC; replacement and enhancement of the windows to the front with a new glass frontage, including new door access and the replacement and upgrading of the existing roof.

Cllr Tom Farrell previously confirmed that the old fire station in the heart of the town would be converted into a community office for use by the Moate Town Team.

The new amenity, to be opened from 9am to 5pm on weekdays, will enable Moate Town Team carry out the necessary administration associated with grant applications for various community groups as well as providing a base for the Town Team.

In July 2024, Moate Town Team received a grant allocation of €150,000 towards the conversion of the old fire station to a community office.