Planning granted for arts centre

PLANNING permission has been granted for the construction of a new West Cork Arts Centre in Skibbereen.

It is hoped to issue tenders within the next few months, with building work likely to commence before the year end.

Following an international architectural design competition which attracted 216 entries, Donaghy + Dimond Architects have been appointed as lead architects.

It is to be constructed on the site of the old Wolfe’s Bakery and is estimated to cost just over €4.4 million.

Fundraising is ongoing and is being supported by international financiers and philanthropists William and Judith Bollinger.