1. Introduction:
Meath County Council has acquired Ned's Cottage to serve as a valuable community asset for the residents of Ashbourne and surrounding areas. We are seeking innovative and sustainable proposals from community groups and organisations interested in utilising this space for the benefit of the community.
2. About Ned's Cottage:
Ned Nulty's Cottage is steeped in Ashbourne's local history, famously linked to the founding of Ashbourne Rugby Club in 1974. Ned Nulty's generosity provided the club's first pitch and changing facilities on his farm, where the cottage stands.
Acquired by Meath County Council, its significance as a community landmark is now being revitalised. Remedial works have been completed to the property and this strategic work, acknowledging it unique internal characteristics, has restored Ned’s Cottage for community use.
3. Purpose of this Expression of Interest (EOI):
Meath County Council welcomes proposals for a wide range of community uses.
The purpose of this EOI is to gather information from interested parties regarding their proposed use of Ned's Cottage, their capacity to manage the property, under licence from Meath County Council, and their commitment to serving the community. This process will assist Meath County Council in identifying suitable a group or groups to manage the building for the benefit of the Ashbourne community.
Any group(s) expressing interest will have to satisfy themselves that they can operate within the current lay out of the building in its current condition.
An initial lease of 24 months is envisaged with reviews after 12 months and 24 months.
4. Information Required in Expression of Interest:
Interested groups are requested to submit a comprehensive EOI, including the following information which will be scored as follows:
4.1 Organisation Details:
- Name of organisation/group
- Legal status (if applicable)
- Contact person, address, telephone number, and email address
- A brief description of the organisation/group, and activities, members etc
4.2 Proposed Use of Ned's Cottage: (100 marks)
- A detailed description of the proposed use of Ned's Cottage.
- Target audience and anticipated community benefits.
- Proposed activities, programs, and services.
- How the proposal addresses the accessibility limitations of the building.
4.3 Management and Operational Plan: (100 Marks)
- Proposed management structure and roles.
- Staffing and volunteer plans.
- Proposed operating hours and accessibility.
- A plan for community engagement and consultation.
4.4 Financial Sustainability Plan: (100 marks)
- Proposed funding sources and income generation strategies.
- Projected operating costs.
- A plan for long-term financial sustainability.
4.5 Relevant Experience: (100 Marks)
- Details of previous experience in managing similar facilities or delivering similar programs.
- Evidence of capacity to manage and operate Ned's Cottage effectively.
4.6 Community Benefit: (200 Marks)
- How will the group benefit the Ashbourne community.
- Evidence of community support.
5. Submission Details:
Expressions of Interest should be submitted electronically by completing the Expression of Interest form here (Expression of Interest: Ned's Cottage)
The deadline for submission of Expressions of Interest has been extended to 5 January, 2026.
6. Evaluation Process:
EOIs will be evaluated by a panel comprised of representatives from Meath County Council. Shortlisted groups may be invited to attend an interview to further discuss their proposals or provide further information.
7. Viewings:
Viewing of Neds Cottage will be facilitated by Meath County Council on by request.
8. Contact Information:
For any queries regarding this Expression of Interest, please contact:
Community Department, Meath County Council, Phone Number 046 9097000, and Email community@meathcoco.ie
9. Disclaimer:
Meath County Council reserves the right to accept or reject any or all Expressions of Interest. This EOI does not constitute a commitment to enter into any agreement.
The Expression of interest Form is available on Expression of Interest: Ned's Cottage