In Pictures: Launch of new Diamond of Donegal Town celebrates transformed community space

The heart of Donegal Town has received a massive makeover with the official launch of the new Diamond which took place last Friday, marking a significant milestone in the development of Donegal Town.

This revitalized public square promises to enhance the community’s cultural and social life, while increasing footfall to local businesses and serving as a vibrant gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

The new Diamond is the result of extensive planning and collaboration between Donegal County Council, local businesses, and community stakeholders. The project aimed to create a more accessible, attractive, and functional public space that reflects Donegal Town’s rich heritage and community spirit.

The refurbished Diamond area that now features new seating, paving, lighting, and vibrant planting. A standout addition to this project is the newly created community canopy and entertainment space, designed for use by the community, local businesses, individuals, and various groups.

This project has been funded by Donegal County Council with co-funding from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media under the Outdoor Public Space Scheme.

Minister Catherine Martin TD, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media said, “The Outdoor Public Space Scheme will help local authorities open up and create public spaces and facilities dedicated to the arts, culture and festivals. I am delighted that with this funding, Donegal County Council have transformed the Donegal Town Diamond including the new arts performance space under the canopy, which will be a focal point for the town to enhance both the tourism offering and increase footfall to local businesses. The canopy provides a year-round space for arts and cultural performances that will draw both visitors and the local community to gather in this beautiful space”.

Attending the launch on Friday, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue expressed “Today’s launch is a testament to our commitment to enhancing Donegal’s infrastructure and supporting local communities. The new Diamond is not just a physical transformation but an affirmation of the Government’s commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive and thriving Donegal Town for generations to come and will serve as a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike”.

A key element of this transformative project has been the development of an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming pedestrian space in the heart of the historic Diamond with a canopy space as a focal point for festivals, events and other activities all year round. Donegal Town Diamond was expertly designed by Paul Doherty Architects and constructed by AXIS Construction to a high standard using local materials where possible.

Beautiful landscaping including new trees, flower beds, and seating areas, have been introduced to create a welcoming environment, as well as intricate art carvings on the seating to mark the 550th Anniversary of the foundation of the town that aims to celebrate Donegal Town’s rich history and culture, providing opportunities for public engagement and interaction throughout the year.

Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr. Niamh Kennedy spoke to the collaborative effort that has driven this project forward, stating: “It’s wonderful to see Donegal Town come alive like this, the aim for this project was to create a space that honors our past whilst looking towards the future. Donegal Town Diamond is a symbol of our shared vision for a thriving future. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, and I look forward to seeing how the Donegal Town Diamond will serve as a hub of activity and community spirit for generations to come.”.

The launch of the new Donegal Town Diamond marks a significant milestone in the community’s journey toward revitalization and regeneration. With its new enhanced design, cultural significance, and focus on community engagement, the Diamond promises to be a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to celebrate its heritage and plan for its future.

Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, John G. McLaughlin, expressed his enthusiasm for the development, noting “Donegal County Council’s investment in our public spaces is an investment in Donegal’s future. The completion of the Donegal Town Diamond is a proud achievement for all involved. It will undoubtedly boost the local economy and enhance the cultural landscape of Donegal. It reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive and vibrant spaces where individuals can gather, celebrate, and engage with one another.”

The event concluded with the official opening by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue and closing remarks from Mr. Garry Martin, Donegal County Council Director of Service who expressed gratitude to all those who worked together to bring the project to fruition with their unwavering support and participation.

Guests enjoyed refreshments at Le Petit Marche café, providing a perfect opportunity to discuss the positive impact of the new development while celebrating this significant milestone in Donegal Town’s development as a growing hub for tourism and economic development.

The launch was well timed at the commencement of the 550th Anniversary weekend celebrations (11th to 13th October 2024) marking this new chapter in a positive future for the town. Donegal County Council remains steadfastly committed to ongoing improvements and support for local businesses and community groups in the area.

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