A NEW community space is set to be designed and built in Buncrana following the recent purchase of a site at Ferris Lane by Inishowen Development Partnership(IDP).
IDP has been looking to secure premises for their expanding company for the past few months having viewed numerous vacant premises in the vicinity. This site identified last November was one which was deemed suitable following initial reviews by an engineer, architect and QS as part of due diligence.
This exciting development marks a major milestone for IDP, whose work has supported people, communities, and local initiatives across the Inishowen Peninsula for close on three decades.
The new facility will be purpose-built to reflect the scale and scope of IDP’s growing services, creating a modern, eco-friendly, inclusive, and welcoming hub for training, collaboration, innovation, and community connection.
A spokesperson for IDP welcomed the development and thanked the Board of Voluntary Directors for” investing in the future of the local development company and seeking to develop a community asset in the region while repurposing a derelict site.
The next steps will be looking to Donegal County Council and further afield to see what funding opportunities are available to support this badly needed community facility. We hope to have a new building designed with sustainability, accessibility, and community wellbeing at its core”.
“This facility will serve as a long-term investment in the people of Inishowen—offering a flexible and vibrant space to host programmes, events, supports, and partnerships that empower individuals and strengthen local communities,” explained IDP spokesperson.
While the site development is envisioned as a long-term project—expected to take a number of years to complete once funding is secured—IDP is also making immediate changes to ensure continuity of service.
In the coming weeks, the organisation will relocate to temporary premises at the former Post Office on Buncrana’s Main Street.
This central location in the heart of the town will ensure IDP remains highly accessible to the public, while also allowing staff and programme partners to continue delivering supports in employment, social inclusion, education, sustainability, and community development without interruption. In 2024 alone, IDP welcomed 3,968 individuals through its doors and delivered 43 courses and 77 events, reaching a total of 5,511 attendees throughout the year.
“We are excited about what lies ahead,” said IDP.
“Our move to the old Post Office keeps us close to the community we serve, and the development of a new purpose-built facility will give Inishowen a modern, dynamic hub that reflects the scale and ambition of our work.”
More details on the relocation and future plans will be shared in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the IDP team looks forward to welcoming the community into their new Main Street space later this summer and continuing to build towards a brighter future for all in Inishowen.