ABOUT US

About Athboy Development Forum


Athboy Development Forum members standing together in a room
A voluntary organisation whose members are embedded in the heart of the community.

Athboy Development Forum: Our Story

Athboy Development Forum CLG (ADF) was formed to promote social, economic, cultural and educational activities for the community of Athboy.

The first major project that the group undertook was the re-establishment of the Fair Green as a site for community activity in the late 1990s. The project, which cost £100K and was run in partnership with the Fair Green Trustees, was funded by selling tickets for a prize draw and a Leader grant through Meath Partnership.

In 2003 ADF was approached by the Trustees of St. James Hall to help them fund and run a project refurbish the Hall which had fallen into disrepair. ADF obtained more Leader funding and borrowed the balance of the money needed to fund the restoration project. The group then ran an Annual Community Lotto from 2006 to 2015 to pay back the loan.

In 2009 the group obtained funding through Pobal’s Community Services Program to employ caretakers for St. James Hall. In order to qualify for this funding the groups had to set up a limited company and lease the Hall from the Trustees. Most of the committee became board members of the company.

ADF also established Athboy’s Twinning with the Autonne Villages and ran the twinning events for the first 5 years until Athboy Twinning Association was formed.

In November 2011, at the request of several local groups, the group negotiated a lease of the Convent Community Centre(CCC) with Meath County Council after it was handed over to them by the Order of Mercy.

Today the group run both St. James Hall and the CCC as community facilities. We have a subcommittee for each premises with representatives from the groups who use them.

Our Focus

We support community clubs, groups, individuals, and local businesses by providing high-quality, accessible spaces. Whether for sports events, educational workshops, cultural activities, remote working or team meetings, we create environments where people can participate, connect, and engage.

Athboy Development Forum’s main goals are:

Build Connections, encourage social interaction and integration within the community.

Collaborate, work with local businesses, local authority, service providers and government agencies to create opportunities that benefit the community.

Support, individuals, service providers, clubs, groups who are providing important community services.

Promote Education, Training and Development, by providing facilities and locations.

Advocate for the community through our activities and connections.

Meet our team

Meet the Team, our caretakers, the people you will meet when you visit the buildings.  They will help you with your events, find the right space for you and answer all your questions.


A man standing outside a community center, looking towards the camera.

Manager (Athboy CCC)

Michael Moran


A man looking towards the camera.

Caretaker (St. James’ Hall)

Matthew Alake


A man looking towards the camera.

Part-time Caretaker (St. James’ Hall)

Peter Coffey


A man with safety glasses and a vest.

Part-time Caretaker (Athboy CCC)

Gerry Gilroy

Support Development And Growth

A visual plan for the "Sponsor the Block" fundraiser, featuring a silhouette of the Athboy CCC building at the center. The Athboy Credit Union logo is displayed as a main sponsor, with sample wooden blocks placed around the design to represent sponsorships.

Sponsor A Block

Your support will be permanently acknowledged on our Community Sponsorship Wall at the CCC.

We are asking for your support to address shortfalls in funding for the significant building improvements happening at both the Convent Community Centre (CCC) and St. James’ Hall.

     Donation of €100 acknowledged with a 200×100 block with your personalised inscription.

Donations of €200 and above acknowledged with a 200×200 block with your personalised inscription.

Following your donation, we will be in touch to confirm your inscription.

We want to acknowledge our main sponsor – Athboy Credit Union!

Wooden blocks with sponsors name on them

Block Wall at the entrance of the Athboy CCC

The Sponsors Block, featuring your name, will be prominently displayed on the wall at the entrance of Athboy CCC, directly across from the office.

A hallway with a community recognition board titled "Celebrating Community," featuring sponsored plaques and spaces for future sponsors. A wooden bench runs along the wall, and a fundraising display on the left encourages donations to "Sponsor a Block."
Image of two wood blocks
QR code with Athboy Development Forum logo.

Fundraising

If you have any questions please email us at – athboydevelopmentforum@gmail.com

Our Services

Our facilities are fully equipped with all the amenities you need to ensure your event runs smoothly. Whether you need showers, snooker tables, gymnasiums, changing rooms, or more, we’ve got you covered. Plus, our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way, ensuring your event is a success from start to finish.


Athboy CCC View from outside, Convent Community Centre.
ATHBOY CCC

Spacious room with red curtain on stage
ST. JAMES’ HALL

A hot desk in an office with a computer and chair.
DIGITAL HUB

Athboy CCC and St. James’ Hall Create Welcoming, Inclusive Environment

Athboy CCC and St. James’ Hall are important resources for the community, in the community, providing essential facilities and services for all.

These buildings cater for all demographics, are fully accessible and offer a range of facilities developed to meet the diverse needs of the community.

Whether you’re looking to join a group, a desk to work remotely from or simply looking for a place to exercise and socialise with like-minded individuals, you will find what you need at Athboy CCC and St. James’ Hall.


See all groups

Changing places at Athboy CCC

At our center, we strive to create a welcoming environment where everyone can feel comfortable and supported. Our Changing Places area is one way we are working to achieve this goal. Whether you have a disability or a medical condition, we want to make sure you have access to the facilities you need to enjoy our space. So if you’re looking for a safe and hygienic place for personal care, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help!


Changing Places at Athboy CCC

Athboy CCC and St. James’ Hall.

Athboy CCC View from outside, Convent Community Centre.


Athboy CCC


Athboy CCC View from outside, Convent Community Centre.

Athboy CCC

At Athboy CCC, there are over 30 groups and classes to choose from, like the Men’s Shed, Autism Support Group, Athboy Women’s Group, Little Buddhas Yoga, and Mindfulness classes. These groups offer a friendly space for people to meet up and enjoy shared interests. So, whether you want to make new friends or try something new, Athboy CCC has got you covered!

A wooden sign displaying 'St. James' Hall'.


St. James’ Hall


A wooden sign displaying 'St. James' Hall'.

St. James’ Hall

St. James’ Hall is your premier venue for parties, large presentations, concerts, and events. Equipped with stage heating, stage lighting, and a sound system, your event is set for success. Additional amenities include dressing rooms and a disabled WC for convenience. Our caretakers ensure the venue is prepared and attended to during your event. Benefit from a projection system, radio microphone, and seating for up to 200 people (standing capacity of 250). Plus, enjoy facilities such as a microwave, kettle, Burco boiler, tea, and coffee, along with tables and chairs provided.

A hot desk in an office with a computer and chair.


Digital Hub


A hot desk in an office with a computer and chair.

Digital Hub

Our Digital Hub offers high-speed broadband and versatile workspaces including lockable desks, dedicated/flexible options, and fully furnished offices. Enjoy convenient access with keypad and FOB entry, monitored by 24-hour CCTV for security.

Discover Community: Groups, Classes, and Events at Athboy CCC and St. James’ Hall

A child happily coloring with crayons, showcasing their creativity and imagination.


Groups and Classes at Athboy CCC


A child happily coloring with crayons, showcasing their creativity and imagination.

Groups and Classes at Athboy CCC

At Athboy CCC, there are over 30 groups and classes to choose from, like the Men’s Shed, Autism Support Group, Athboy Women’s Group, Little Buddhas Yoga, and Tai Chi classes. These groups offer a friendly space for people to meet up and enjoy shared interests. So, whether you want to make new friends or try something new, Athboy CCC has got you covered!

A yoga class with a group of people on mats, practicing various yoga positions.


Groups and Classes at St. James’ Hall


A yoga class with a group of people on mats, practicing various yoga positions.

Groups and Classes at St. James’ Hall

St. James’ Hall is buzzing with all sorts of activities and groups! With over 10 different classes and communities, there’s something for everyone. Kids can dive into drama with Class Act Junior, adults can practice martial arts like Aikido, and art enthusiasts can get creative in art classes. Plus, there are Scouts and a lively Retirement group. It’s the perfect spot to meet new friends and try new things. Come join the fun at St. James’ Hall – your new community awaits!

A group of kids standing in a circle on a field.


Events and Other Activities


A group of kids standing in a circle on a field.

Events and Other Activities

Exciting events are taking place at Athboy CCC and St. James’ Hall! From colorful runs and circus performances to American tea parties, magician shows, and captivating plays, there’s always something fun happening in these vibrant venues. Don’t miss out on the action – mark your calendars and join us for unforgettable experiences!

We’re excited to meet you here

Everyone is Welcome!

Athboy Development Forum Company Limited by Guarantee 

CRO Number 468996

Registered Charity Number 20205151

Athboy Development Forum

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