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Darrara Community Centre is a state of the art community hub, nestled near Ring Bay, a few minutes drive from Clonakilty town, in the heart of West Cork. The beautifully restored 139-year old historical building stands as a testament to the community spirit of the people in the area.
Whether you visit us as a gym member, part of a club, attending a celebration, event, or stopping by for a cup of tea in Peggy's Kitchen, you are warmly welcomed into our community. Operated by a dedicated team of volunteers with 40+ years of collective effort, Darrara Community Centre has undergone a remarkable transformation. From its humble beginnings as a nearly derelict old school building, it has evolved into a modern facility, equipped to serve the needs of generations to come. Our mission, as a Community Council, is to care for our community. Community engagement lies at the core of our ethos. We actively seek feedback, recruit new volunteers, and collaborate with local stakeholders to provide services and host events that enrich the lives of all involved.
In our commitment to staying attuned to the evolving needs of our community, we conduct comprehensive surveys every five years, gathering insights from more than 250 households. This invaluable feedback informs our planning and ensures that we remain responsive to the latest trends and changes in our area. |
In 2013/2014, a significant milestone was reached as the centre underwent extensive renovations with a major construction project costing more than €300,000. Thanks to collaborative efforts with West Cork Development Partnership, Clonakilty Parish, Cork County Council, and the overwhelming success of the 'Who Wants to Be a Thousandaire' fundraiser, the doors of our new centre swung open in September 2014, marking a new chapter in our journey. This major project was followed by an external groundworks project to landscape the area including resurfacing, repairs to stone boundary walls, planting of trees, and up-lighting being added to the building façade. Improvements have continued every year since then - for example the purchase of new gym equipment, the installation of a new stage and sound system, reclaiming the overgrown stream, adding an outdoor defibrillator cabinet, and more.
A photo gallery of our facilities, and a separate slideshow of the refurbishment project, can be seen below and you can read more about the history of the building and our local area here. You are very welcome to the vibrant community of Darrara. Photo Gallery
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Through our voluntary work we're helping to build a stronger, resilient and vibrant community here in Darrara, one volunteer at a time. Our committee is made up of people from all different backgrounds and places - some have lived here all their lives, others have moved to the area, and together we care for the community of Darrara. It's a privilege to be involved and very rewarding.
- Paul McManus, Darrara Community Council
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Through our voluntary work we're helping to build a stronger, resilient and vibrant community
here in Darrara, one volunteer at a time. Our committee is made up of people from all different backgrounds and places - some have lived here all their lives, others have moved to the area, and together we care for the community of Darrara. It's a privilege to be involved and very rewarding.
- Paul McManus, Darrara Community Council
here in Darrara, one volunteer at a time. Our committee is made up of people from all different backgrounds and places - some have lived here all their lives, others have moved to the area, and together we care for the community of Darrara. It's a privilege to be involved and very rewarding.
- Paul McManus, Darrara Community Council
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Not-for-profit charityWe're a charitable organisation, affiliated to Muintir na Tíre, and through our 100% voluntary work, community grants and fundraising, we're able to deliver affordable pricing for the range of services and activities on offer.
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High quality meeting space The centre has been designed to be used in multiple different ways. Facilities include a large main hall, gym, meeting rooms, fully equipped kitchen and catering facilities. We've also got a stage, sound system, broadband, wheelchair friendly access, onsite parking and seating for 100 people.
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Fuelled by community spiritOur community council meets on the second Tuesday of every month, to plan the latest projects, events and activities.
New faces are always welcome! |
Facilities
From a spacious event hall, to kitchen/catering facilities, meeting rooms and a modern, friendly gym, we've got everything you need to make your experience with us comfortable and convenient.
Explore the comprehensive range of amenities designed to cater to all your needs:
Explore the comprehensive range of amenities designed to cater to all your needs:
- Large Main/Sports Hall
- Meeting Rooms (also suitable for clinics)
- Stage
- Projector Screen
- Sound system
- Seating for 100+
- Folding Tables
- Free WIFI
- Gym
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
- Access Ramp
- Disabled Access Toilets
- Free Onsite Parking
- Defibrillator
Darrara Community Video
Meet the Team
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The Community Council is elected at the AGM each year, and our officers include:
Our Board of Directors includes:
President:
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