€92,000 approved to make Orchard community centre more modern
By Maurice Garvey
ALTHOUGH effectively closed to the public since the day before St Patrick’s day 2020, work has been going on at the Cherry Orchard Community Centre to restyle it for a more modern community purpose.
On Monday night, Dublin City Council approved an extra €92,000 for works at the centre.
Painting works carried out at Cherry Orchard Community Centre
A collaborative project with Tallaght-based group Creative Connections has seen a sparkling new interior paint finish to welcome people back when the centre is open.
David O’Donovan, Dublin City Council Cherry Orchard Project Manager said they were essentially engaged in “futureproofing works” at the centre ahead of reopening to the public.
“We have been closed for over a year but work has been going on. Better to get it done now and be ready to go when we are allowed to reopen,” he said.
“The funds will go towards a new floor on the old sports hall and a fit out at the new sports hall that we started last year. The boxing club will get fitted out with gear.”
Cllr Daithí Doolan (SF) welcomed the fund allocation.
“Delighted to confirm Dublin City Council has agreed extra funding for local facilities and infrastructure at this week’s City Council meeting – an extra €92,000 to Cherry Orchard Community Centre and €100,000 for upgrading Ballyfermot Road.”
Grainne Walker, Creative Director Creative Connections, said they collaborated with approximately 300 local residents ahead of the project at the centre.
“It’s all about positivity through creativity – the power of colour to change mindsets,” said Ms Walker.
“We started with the railings outside the centre, collaborated with 300 residents young and old, then inside the building, we collaborated with workers and have just finished a massive mural in the new community room.
“We have also worked with St Ultan’s to transform their prefabs. All the work we do is collaborative based. In Finglas today we have collaborated with 88 schoolkids and will be doing the same tomorrow.”
Creative Connections and the Orchard Centre will be working together on an upcoming disability project with Maureen McGovern, in time for International Disability Day this December.
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