David Stanton, Fine Gael TD for Cork East has welcomed the approval of €158,741.03 for the refurbishment of the Clock Gate Tower in Youghal. The funding, sanctioned by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, will go directly from South and East Coast Area Development (SECAD) to Youghal Socio-Economic Development Group who will oversee the works.
“I am pleased that Minister Hogan has given sanction to SECAD to allocate almost €159,000 for the renovation and conservation of Youghal Clock Gate Tower. I understand that this funding will become available as soon as it has received formal approval from the board of SECAD”, said Deputy Stanton.
The funding is being provided under the Village Renewal and Development measure of the European Union’s Rural Development Programme 2007-2013.
“This funding will cover phase 1 of the refurbishment of the Clock Gate Tower which is Youghal’s iconic historic monument in the centre of the town. The Tower currently stands vacant and this is a huge loss to Youghal town and its tourism product. Phase 1 of the planned works will ensure the building can be restored to its original character and phase 2 will involve improvements to the inside ensuring can be reopened to the public and preserved for future generations.
Deputy Stanton had been working very closely with Mayor of Cork County, Cllr Barbara Murray to ensure the project received funding. Cllr Barbara Murray, a member of both Cork County and Youghal Town Council and Youghal Socio-Economic Group has also welcomed the funding allocation.
“Members of Youghal Socio-Economic Group worked very hard on this funding application and I know I can speak for all of them when I say that this project will be a huge asset to Youghal. Youghal Town Council have already committed €50,000 to the project and I have been assured by Cork County Manager that Cork County Council will also fund the project”, said Cllr Murray.
It is envisaged that the Youghal Clock Gate Tower will be open in 2014.