Lenaboy Castle, a former orphanage owned by the Sisters of Mercy at Taylors Hill, has lain vacant for over seven years. Following reports into traffic impact, access and a geophysical survey, Galway City Council has now voted to proceed with this acquisition and plans to convert the property into a creative hub for local youth. The building is in need of substantial refurbishment and the Sisters of Mercy are making a donation towards same of €750,000. Time limited funding of €1.75m under the European Regional Development Fund had previously been available for the project. Total costs are estimated at approximately €5m.