Major investment will build on the Quay’s history while creating a new waterfront destination for Ballina
Ballina is set to receive more than €7.5 million in funding for an ambitious regeneration of the Quay, following confirmation of support under the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund programme.
The funding was announced Monday morning by Minister for Rural and Community Development and Mayo TD Dara Calleary and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne.
A further €150,000 has also been allocated for a Ballina Town Centre Project Design Measure, with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage now set to engage with Mayo County Council on the next steps towards delivering the Quay project.
The plans represent a significant investment in one of Ballina’s most distinctive waterfront areas, with proposals including new boating and watersports facilities, toilets and changing facilities, refurbishment of the Kennedy Glasgow Centre, an extension of the commercial units, soft landscaping and planting, and new pedestrian crossings.
Minister Calleary described the Quay as one of Ballina and North Mayo’s “prize assets” with “massive potential”.
“This project is going to truly transform the area. The Quay has long been a key focal point for those involved in water sports, local recreation and as a draw for visitors who wish to explore the River Moy and the North Mayo coastline,” he said.
The investment also represents the next chapter in a much longer story of regeneration at the Quay.
Almost 30 years ago, Moy Valley Resources took a long-term lease on the site and led its regeneration, transforming what had become a largely derelict and underused waterfront area. The redevelopment included the rebuilding of the former customs building, now Kennedy Glasgow House, and the creation of adjoining enterprise units which provided space for local businesses.
The Quay has continued to evolve as an important business, community and recreation area, with its location on the River Moy making it an important part of Ballina’s maritime heritage and its identity as a riverside town.
The future plans will build on that legacy, creating improved facilities for water-based activities while enhancing the public realm and visitor experience.
Ballina Quay / Kenney Glasgow House. Images courtesy of Moy Valley Resources
The Quay has played an important role in Ballina’s history for centuries, once facilitating trade between the town and ports beyond North Mayo. Today, it is home to local businesses, community activity and a growing range of water-based recreation, including activities centred around the River Moy.
For Ballina and the wider North Mayo area, the investment has the potential to strengthen the Quay as a place for local people, businesses, visitors and those enjoying the River Moy, while creating a more attractive and accessible connection between the town centre and its waterfront.
The project will now progress with Mayo County Council and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage working through the next stages of delivery.
Minister Dara Calleary TD, Cathaoirleach Cllr Annie May Reape, Minister Alan Dillon and Senator Mark Duffy all welcomed the investment and said they looked forward to seeing the Ballina project progress over the coming months. They described it as an important investment in the future of the town and the wider North Mayo area.
With more than €7.5 million committed, a new chapter is now beginning for one of Ballina’s most important historic and natural assets.