Big plans for redevelopment of former Tipperary pub as community purchases property and land
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The community of Ballylooby have recently purchased the former Chrissies pub, with ambitious plans for its redevelopment
A public meeting was recently held in Ballylooby Hall to showcase new plans for the Chrissies Community Project, which aims to bring new life to the former Chrissies Pub in Ballylooby.
“When our local landmark pub closed its doors, Ballylooby lost more than just a place to grab a drink. It lost its primary social anchor, a gathering space for celebrations, and a piece of its heritage.”
“Chrissie's Community Project Limited was established as a formal, non-profit community initiative to change that. Our mission is entirely community-driven: to buy back the property, carefully renovate it, and reopen Chrissies as a vibrant, sustainable, and community-focused establishment for generations to come.”
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This community-led initiative recently completed the purchase of the former pub, which has been closed for approximately 20 years, including approximately an acre of land to the rear of the former pub, which the group hopes to develop as part of the wider plans.
The directors now hope to transform the derelict premises into a vibrant community hub that will offer a range of facilities for people in Ballylooby and the surrounding areas.
The meeting provided an opportunity for local residents and interested members of the public to view the proposed plans and learn more about the vision for the development.
Speaking about the project, one of the directors Keith Scanlon explained the vision they have for the project.
The proposed development includes a pub, coffee shop, small shop, remote-working facilities, motorhome parking, playgrounds and a general meeting space. There is also potential for leisure activities such as yoga and pilates, and a public outdoor toilet as there is currently no toilet facilities in the village.
Significant renovation work will be required to transform the building, along with extensions to accommodate the proposed facilities.
Community investment remains an important part of the project, with the shareholding still open to those interested in supporting the development.
A GoFundMe is currently running to raise funds, where those taking part in the draw have the chance to win a new Kia K4 for the New Year or €20,000. The GoFundMe is now open at https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-rebuild-our-local-pub-into-a-community-cafe-shop-pub-msd8w.