Council acquires St Brigid's old Nurses Home

Proposal for domestic violence refuge

GALWAY County Council has acquired the Old Nurses’ Home and associated lands at St. Brigid’s campus in Ballinasloe.

The acquisition brings the building that was owned by HSE into public ownership and creates an opportunity for future community use.

“This is much more than a property transaction. It is about protecting an important public asset and ensuring that its future care be considered in the context of the real needs of the community,” said Ballinasloe Cllr Evelyn Francis Parsons.

She emphasised that the acquisition creates an opportunity to explore future uses for the building, including the potential provision of step-down accommodation and supports for women and children affected by domestic violence. This would be subject to a feasibility study, funding, planning approvals.

Cllr Parsons suggested that age-friendly and supported housing options should also be considered as part of the future development of the wider St Brigid’s site.

Following a meeting with HSE senior officials, Cllr Parsons also welcomed confirmation that work is continuing across the remainder of the St Brigid’s site.

This includes the transfer of lands to the Department of Education, the retention by the HSE of strategically important lands for future healthcare development, and plans for future health infrastructure.

The HSE confirmed that its plans include an Enhanced Integrated Community Care Centre and associated programme, together with future National Ambulance Service facilities, including an ambulance base and training facilities.

“The future of St Brigid’s cannot simply be about disposal. It must also be about protecting land for future public services, considering appropriate housing and support options, and bringing key parts of this historic campus back into active use,” added Cllr Parsons.

Cllr Parsons acknowledged the work of Galway County Council officials and HSE management in progressing the acquisition and resolving the associated property and legal issues.

“This has required sustained engagement over a number of years, and I want to acknowledge the work undertaken by Galway County Council and the HSE in bringing the acquisition to this point,” she continued.