Portlaoise Convent Reopens as 52 Social Housing Units After €27M Redevelopment

A 200-year-old Presentation Convent in Portlaoise has been redeveloped into 52 social housing units and support services, following a €27 million investment of public funds. The project, a partnership between Sophia Housing and Laois County Council, transformed the derelict site on Church Avenue, which included the former Ha'penny Babies School and Sacred Heart Primary School.

Many residents have moved in, with four more expected soon. Martin Lawless, a new resident who experienced homelessness and addiction, expressed his happiness, stating he now has a home and looks forward to making memories with his grandchildren. The central convent building, dating back to 1824, has been restored for public and community spaces, as well as additional apartments. The former Sacred Heart school will also be converted for public use.

The Presentation nuns left the convent over 25 years ago, with an initial social housing plan failing due to local objections. The site was further damaged by fires in 2013 and 2015. Sister Francis Crowe, 82, reflected on the 27-year journey to realize the project, noting the persistence and prayers of the older sisters. She praised Sophia Housing for providing not just homes, but also social and welfare care.

Tony Riordan, CEO of Sophia Housing, highlighted the project as an example of vision and courage in tackling heritage issues and derelict town-centre sites. Michael Rainey, CEO of Laois County Council, expressed pride in the regeneration of the vacant site into a cultural quarter, providing homes for life.