Contracts signed for €9 million THRIVE Connolly Barracks Reimagined project

Bretland Construction appointed to deliver historic transformation of Connolly Barracks

Press Release: Monday, 07 September 2026

Official contracts have been signed for the €9 million THRIVE Connolly Barracks Reimagined project, marking a major milestone in the transformation of the historic Connolly Barracks in Longford Town. Bretland Construction has been appointed to deliver the ambitious redevelopment, with site set-up now commencing ahead of construction works. Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Gerry Hagan, Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Samantha Healy and members of the THRIVE project team joined representatives of Bretland Construction at Longford County Council recently to formally sign the contract documents. 

The signing of contracts represents the final step before the commencement of construction works and marks the beginning of the next phase in the delivery of one of the most significant heritage regeneration projects undertaken in Longford in recent years.
The official sod-turning ceremony for the Connolly Barracks Reimagined Project was held on 29 June, marking the transition from project planning into the delivery phase. Following completion of the design, statutory approvals and procurement processes, a pre-start meeting was subsequently held with the contractor Bretland Construction, with commencement of works on site to follow. Robin Lee Architects were previously appointed as consultants for preliminary design, environmental assessments, business case development, and Part 8 consent.

Connolly Barracks Reimagined is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme 2021-2027. 
The redevelopment of Connolly Barracks will create a vibrant community and cultural facility that will serve as a focal point for Longford Town. The overall project will cost in the region of €9 million, including co-funding of €7 million by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme 2021-2027, together with €2 million funding from Longford County Council. 

The ambitious transformation will see the vacant barracks, empty since the Army's departure in 2009, house a county museum, community café, creative makerspace, podcast and recording studio, meeting rooms and music facilities. A rear extension will provide a flexible conference and performance space alongside training facilities. The project also incorporates accessibility improvements, sustainability features including solar panels and rainwater harvesting, and enhanced public spaces. 
Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Gerry Hagan said, "This marks an important milestone for Longford. The signing of contracts means this long-anticipated project is now moving firmly into the construction phase. Connolly Barracks is a landmark building in Longford Town and this investment will give it a new purpose, creating opportunities for culture, creativity and community activity for generations to come." 

Longford County Council Chief Executive Samantha Healy, said, “Projects of this scale have the power to change how a town feels, functions and grows. THRIVE Connolly Barracks Reimagined will breathe new life into this historic site, strengthen the cultural and social fabric of our community, and help drive the continued renewal of Longford Town. As we move from planning into delivery, we are not simply restoring a historic building, we are opening a new chapter in the regeneration of Longford.”
Construction Director for Bretland Construction John O’ Connell said they were delighted to be working in partnership with Longford County Council on the Connolly Barracks Project. 

“We are proud to be involved in the delivery of this prestigious and important development, which represents an exciting opportunity for Longford and the wider community. Our Bretland Team looks forward to working closely with Longford County Council and all project stakeholders to deliver a high-quality development that will create a lasting and positive legacy for the town and its people.”

The restoration will employ best conservation practice while responding to Longford's growing and increasingly diverse population. The project is expected to generate employment, tourism and business opportunities while creating a shared space that brings communities and generations together. 

THRIVE operates under Ireland's two European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) programmes, providing funding to help local authorities reimagine town centres through the renovation and adaptive reuse of publicly owned heritage buildings. The scheme incorporates the core New European Bauhaus values of sustainability, aesthetics and inclusion, promoting citizen-centred, community-led approaches to urban regeneration. 

The project has received full support from Elected Members and is particularly welcomed by Longford Municipal District representatives.