Meath County Council invites Expressions of Interest from community groups and organisations for the use of Ned’s Cottage, Ashbourne.

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.

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

2. 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. 

3. 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:

• Organisaton details
• Proposed Use of Ned’s Cottage
• Management and Operational Plan
• Financial Sustainability Plan
• Relevant Experience

4. 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 is 30 November, 2025.

5. 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.

Viewing of Neds Cottage will be facilitated by Meath County Council on by request. 

For any queries regarding this Expression of Interest, please contact:

Community Department, Meath County Council, Phone Number 046 9097000, and Email community@meathcoco.ie

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.