Construction has officially commenced on The Sorting House, Borris, marking a major milestone in the transformation of the town's former Post Office into a vibrant new community and enterprise hub.
Following a competitive procurement process, Cahill Craft Construction has been appointed as the main contractor for the project. The delivery team also includes Brennan & Associates as Quantity Surveyors, Ivor Bowe Consulting Engineers, and ODLA Architects, who have worked collaboratively to bring the ambitious vision to construction stage.
The Sorting House is being developed through a partnership between Carlow County Council and Carlow Community Enterprise Centres CLG, with support from the LEADER Programme. When completed in 2027, the facility will provide modern flexible workspace, digital facilities, meeting and collaboration areas, and community-focused amenities designed to support enterprise, remote working, innovation and local economic development.
The project represents a significant investment in Borris and aligns with national and local objectives to revitalise town centres, repurpose vacant properties, and support sustainable rural communities.
Paula O'Brien, Director of Services, Carlow County Council speaking about the project said "The commencement of construction at The Sorting House is an important milestone not just for Borris, but for County Carlow as we continue to develop our range of enterprise spaces. This project demonstrates how historic buildings can be repurposed to meet modern needs while preserving their place within our communities. Through strong partnerships and strategic investment, we are creating a facility that will support enterprise, innovation, remote working and community activity for generations to come."
Norah Ryan, President of Carlow Chamber and Director of Carlow Community Enterprise Centres CLG commented that "The Sorting House represents a strategic investment in the future of Borris and the wider region. We know that businesses, entrepreneurs and remote workers increasingly require high-quality, flexible workspaces in rural locations. This development will complement the existing enterprise infrastructure across the county and create new opportunities for collaboration, business growth and community engagement."
The sorting house is the 3rd project to be developed by Carlow Community Enterprise Centres CLG with its other two properties being Enterprise House in Carlow Town and Station House in Hacketstown.
Cllr. Michael Doran, Cathaoirleach of Bagenalstown Municipal District said “Carlow County Council is delighted to work with the Board of Carlow Community Enterprise Centres CLG on this project with the support of the LEADER Fund co-ordinated by Carlow LCDC and Carlow County Development Partnership”. Cllr. Doran continued to say "Today marks an exciting chapter for Borris. The appointment of the contractor and the commencement of works demonstrates our commitment to investing in rural towns and ensuring they remain vibrant places to live, work and do business. The Sorting House will breathe new life into an iconic building while helping to secure a strong future for the local community."
The development forms part of Carlow County Council's wider strategy to support balanced regional growth, strengthen rural economies and bring underutilised buildings back into productive use.
Works are now underway on site, with The Sorting House scheduled to open in 2027, creating a flagship community and enterprise destination in the heart of Borris.