Kieran Foley of The Munster Express wrote a wonderful article about the community spirit that turned a landmark building into a thriving community hub in Clonlea Power, Co. Waterford. Clann Credo was delighted to play a part in financing this great project. Here is some detail from Kieran's article:
The picturesque village of Clonea Power, situated at the foothills of the majestic Comeragh Mountains, is unquestionably one of County Waterford’s hidden gems.
A landmark building within this charming village was recently renovated and the end result is testament to the determination and enterprising spirit of members of this local community.
Clonea National School, which was 150 years old in 2020, is located near the stunning Saints Quan and Broghan Church. Both were designed by renowned architect JJ McCarthy.
Many generations of children from Clonea and the surrounding areas were educated in the historic school building, which was divided into two separate schools, one for boys and one for girls, each with two classrooms.
A new, more modern school was opened in 1977. The old school house served as a Parish Hall since then but was in need of extensive repair throughout the building.
A hardworking committee comprised of industrious members of the local community came together with a view to renovating the building and creating a modern, community space. They enlisted assistance from Waterford Leader, the Tomar Trust, Waterford City & County Council, Clann Credo, and had the steadfast co-operation of Fr PJ Fagan and Cllr Seanie Power.
The restored building has already been used for gatherings after funerals and has been availed of by groups such as the ICA, IFA, GAA, and Clonea Power Tidy Villages for various meetings. A high-profile meeting to discuss a proposed solar farm in the area, attended by more than 200 people., was also held in the building.
The committee believe there is further potential to see the building used by people visiting the graveyard and church; for kids’ birthday parties; as a stopping off point by cyclists passing through the village; or anyone out and about in the area.
For more detail on this great community facility and the mammoth fundraising efforts, along with some great photographs, please see Kieran Foley's full article HERE.
Location: Clonlea Power
Website:
https://www.facebook.com/Clonea-Power-Parish-Hall-113439007090559
"The old school house served as a Parish Hall...but was in need of extensive repair throughout the building."