Sligo County Council is delighted to announce that it has been awarded €7 million under the THRIVE – Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme to deliver the Sligo Gaol Project, a transformative initiative that will restore and repurpose the historic Sligo Gaol into a publicly accessible community and tourism asset in the heart of Sligo Town.
€7 Million Awarded to Sligo Gaol Project Under THRIVE Scheme
This significant investment will enable the refurbishment of key 19th-century structures on the site, including the Governor’s House, the three-storey asylum building, and the two-storey cell blocks, along with the link corridor connecting these buildings. A new single-storey reception building will be constructed, and the site will benefit from enhanced landscaping, public lighting, signage, and parking facilities.
Speaking on the announcement, Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr Dónal Gilroy, said:
“This is a landmark moment for Sligo. The Sligo Gaol Project will breathe new life into one of our most iconic heritage sites, transforming it into a vibrant space for locals and visitors alike. It’s a testament to the power of community vision and strategic investment, and I’m proud to see Sligo leading the way in heritage-led regeneration.”
Chief Executive of Sligo County Council, Martin Lydon, added:
“The funding secured through THRIVE will allow us to preserve the architectural and historical significance of Sligo Gaol while reimagining it as a dynamic hub for tourism, culture, and community engagement. This project reflects Sligo County Council’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive planning under the Town Centre First framework.”
THRIVE is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Northern and Western Regional Programme and the ERDF Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme 2021–2027. The scheme has been co-designed by the Regional Assemblies and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to address European, national, and regional policy objectives.
THRIVE promotes a citizen-centred, community-led approach to planning, design, and project selection. It targets vacancy and dereliction while ensuring the long-term protection of heritage assets. The projects announced today are expected to commence in late 2025, delivering long-lasting benefits for local communities across Ireland.
