After much local speculation, it was confirmed by Fermoy Municipal District that the sale of Mitchelstown convent has been agreed.
The issue has been raised a number of times by Cllr Kay Dawson and while nobody could shed any light on who the buyer is, Cllr Dawson stressed that they would have to go through the planning process again and that they would have to meet any stipulations that would be put in place.
She added that she has no idea who the buyer is or what their intentions for the building are.
Meanwhile, Mitchelstown Heritage Society have welcomed news that a sale has been agreed, as the building has been falling further and further into disrepair.
“The society remains hopeful that this will mean a brighter future for Mitchelstown’s largest protected structure. We look forward to assisting the new owner in the convent’s appropriate restoration,” Mitchelstown Heritage Society chairman, Andrew Dineen, said.
Local activist, Timmy ‘Rancher’ White was more cautious on hearing the news however and said he would not be welcoming the news until the new owners and their intentions are known.
“The people of Mitchelstown have a right to know what plans the new owners have for this property which is an integral and historic building in the town. Furthermore, I would hope the planners within Cork County Council will hold the new owners to the terms of the planning, given the building’s uniqueness.”
