Delvin Amenity Development Group welcomes progress at St Mary's Church

The Delvin Amenity Development Group has welcomed the news that the team is now in place to advance the conservation plan at St Mary's Church.

The team visited the site last Tuesday under a mix of sunshine and showers. They conducted a site visit, marking the start of a significant project focused on its future. This initiative includes the preparation of a Conservation Management Plan, funded by the Community Monuments Fund 2024. The project is supported by the National Monuments Service - Archaeology Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, in partnership with Westmeath County Council and Delvin Amenity Development Group.

The chair of the Delvin Amenity Development Group, Cllr David Jones, said that St Mary's Church is an important historical site in the village.

"We are excited to see the dedicated team ready to embark on a plan to preserve St Mary's Church for future generations. Westmeath County Council own the site and they will oversee all financial aspects."

He also thanked Melanie McQuaid, the Westmeath County Council heritage officer, "for her invaluable contributions and tireless efforts behind the scenes". The group also wishes to acknowledge the dedication of volunteers who have been actively tidying up the site and calls for more volunteers in the coming weeks.

Cllr Jones also offered his gratitude to committee members Sharon and David Leavy, and Mick Kenny for their work with Delvin Amenity Development Group.