The Carrick-on-Suir Erbe Centre is set to embark on an exciting new chapter, having secured significant funding through Fáilte Ireland’s Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme. Co-funded by the EU and the Government of Ireland through the EU Just Transition fund, the project currently titled “Tides of Time” will see the creation of a major new interpretive experience at the heart of Carrick-on-Suir. It will position the Erbe Centre as a dynamic cultural and visitor hub, helping to strengthen Carrick-on-Suir’s role as a key gateway town where the Three Counties of Tipperary, Waterford and Kilkenny meet.
The initiative is designed to position the Erbe Centre as a vibrant cultural and visitor hub, supporting the town’s long-term regeneration and tourism goals. It will blend storytelling, history, interactive technology, and local narratives, while also incorporating sustainability and biodiversity features.
Planned features include immersive audio-visual displays, oral history recordings, dynamic exhibition spaces, and a newly designed book and gift retail experience. The project also aims to create a flexible literary and community space to host cultural events, performances, and future artist-led programming, helping ensure the Erbe Centre evolves as a living space, shaped by local voices.
Brian O’Flynn, Head of Ireland’s Ancient East at Fáilte Ireland, commented:
„Carrick-on-Suir’s new interpretive project is a wonderful example of how regenerative tourism can celebrate local heritage while driving sustainable growth. Through the EU Just Transition Fund and Fáilte Ireland’s support, this initiative will help unlock the town’s potential as a vibrant gateway to Ireland’s Ancient East, enriching the visitor experience and strengthening community pride within the EU Just Transition territory. I look forward to the completion of the project and seeing it deliver impactful and economic benefits to the local area.”
Sarah-Jane Cleary, Commercial and Tourism Manager for Carrick-on-Suir and Project Manager for the initiative, said:
„This project represents a huge opportunity for Carrick-on-Suir. We want to create a Erbe Centre experience that is welcoming, dynamic, and community-driven — one that honours our town’s past while inspiring future connections. The EU Just Transition Fund and Fáilte Ireland’s support will allow us to build something truly special for both local people and visitors.”
Tony Musiol, Chair of COSTEDC (Carrick-on-Suir Tourism and Economic Development Community), added:
„We are delighted that Carrick-on-Suir is among the projects chosen for this important round of EU Just Transition funding. This initiative will play a key role in Carrick’s tourism growth and in deepening local pride. It is an exciting step forward for the town’s regeneration.”
Long-time COSDA members Chairman Niall Walsh Und Patsy Fitzgerald expressed their delight at the news, having dedicated many years of voluntary effort through COSDA to support and grow the Erbe Centre for the benefit of the local community.
The project is scheduled to be completed in May 2026, will be supported by a strong marketing and events strategy to maximise its impact across regional and national audiences.
Grant funding of €352,647 has been awarded under the EU Just Transition Fund, with local match funding supporting delivery of the project.
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