Works start on Athlone digital hub proposal
Initial works have started on a new Digital Hub in Athlone as Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) progresses a major town centre regeneration project on Northgate Street.
The development will potentially see the transformation of the prominent site through a two-stage project delivered by TUS and Westmeath County Council.
The first stage of the project is supported by a €930,000 allocation from the Just Transition funding programme and will involve enabling works, including the removal of more recent buildings on the site, while retaining and protecting the historic 19th century building that formed part of the original Athlone workhouse complex.
The works will also include securing and carrying out essential repairs to the protected former workhouse administration building.
A planning application for the main development is expected to be lodged in 2026, with funding to be sought through national regeneration and innovation programmes.
The overall development is intended to provide the physical environment and infrastructure to support multiple functions, including business, higher education, research and community engagement.
The digital hub is intended to provide flexible space for collaboration, enterprise and digital innovation, strengthening links between education, industry and the wider community, while also contributing to the ongoing regeneration of Athlone town centre.
The project has undergone environmental and ecological screening, with no significant impacts identified.
Commenting on the project, Jimmy Browne, Chief Operations Officer, TUS, said it responds to a need for flexible, high-quality space that supports digital innovation, enterprise and collaboration.
“As a key part of the TUS Campus Development Plan 2025–2040, the proposed Digital Hub will support students, researchers, entrepreneurs and businesses, while strengthening TUS’s engagement with Athlone and the wider region.
“It represents important infrastructure for the town and demonstrates strong collaboration with Westmeath County Council to enhance Athlone and support regional growth," Mr Browne said.
Local Cllr Aengus O'Rourke, said the the start of works on the site marks “a very significant and long-awaited step forward for Athlone.”
"The redevelopment will play an important role in strengthening links between education, business and the wider community, while also bringing new life to a key town centre, landmark site.
“From the outset, I was clear that this building should be brought back into active, productive use in a way that respects its heritage. I am pleased that we are now firmly on that path," Cllr O'Rourke added.
He acknowledged the co-operation between TUS and Westmeath County Council in advancing the project and said the visible start of works sends a strong signal of intent.
“This is real progress. It shows that with vision, persistence and partnership, we can deliver meaningful regeneration projects for Athlone,” Cllr O'Rourke stated.
TUS said the project builds on the previous public consultation carried out in 2024 and reflects its commitment to sustainable development, adaptive reuse of heritage buildings and regional growth.
Welcoming the commencement of works, Cllr Vinny McCormack, Mayor of Athlone, said the development would drive regeneration and economic activity in the heart of Athlone.
“This is a site of real historic significance, having formed part of the original Athlone workhouse complex.
"The Digital Hub has the potential to be truly transformative for Athlone and the wider Midlands region, creating a space where education, enterprise and innovation can come together," Cllr McCormack said.
Further details on the project, including the specific uses of the hub, are due to be confirmed as the planning process progresses.