Press release
Minister Moran welcomes €1.2 million funding for Emo Court
Published on
Last updated on
Published on
Last updated on
Minister Kevin 'Boxer' Moran welcomes the allocation of €1.2 million for Emo Court in the first announcement of successful projects under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.
The Minister commented:
"I have visited Emo Court on numerous occasions and I am particularly pleased to see that this magnificent historic property, which is part of the OPW’s world class portfolio of Heritage Sites, has been selected for significant investment from this fund. This investment will elevate Emo Court to a must see attraction for this region and enhance the visitor experience."
The investment will see a major upgrade of the estate including the opening up of extra floors to the public, the creation of an event and exhibition space and enhancements to the grounds.
Minister Charlie Flanagan also welcomed the announcement, saying:
"Emo Court is a jewel in the crown for the Laois/Offaly region and I am delighted to see that it has been recognised as deserving of this investment and will soon take its rightful place as a major national historic attraction."
ENDS
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Emo Court was designed by the architect James Gandon in 1790 for the Earls of Portarlington and is a magnificent example of this neo-classical style. During the middle of the 20th century it was owned by the Jesuits before being acquired and extensively restored by Mr. Cholmeley-Harrison in the 1960s. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland which were first laid out in the 18th century and contain formal lawns, a lake and woodland walks with many very fine trees and shrubs. The house and gardens were taken into State ownership in 1994.