Knocknagree: The Cork village that has fought to survive

A Co Cork village that refused to die could be an example to others in rural areas hoping to reinvent themselves

Norita Casey (centre), of Knocknagree Community Development Group with cousins Christopher Murphy and Conor Casey at the playground in Knocknagree village built with the help of the local authority. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

Six years ago, Knocknagree in the Duhallow region of northwest Cork was on its knees. But instead of giving up, locals mobilised to ensure their beloved village survived.

Fast forward to today and,after a huge co-ordinated community effort and spirit volunteerism, the future is brighter. Older residents recall that, in the 1970s, the vibrant community had 12 shops and a post office. And while now they don’t have any — the last shop closed in 2015 — things are looking up on other fronts.