The Cottage was set up in 2012, it’s aim being to combat the lack of services and rural isolation in the community. Loughmore is a small rural community in Ireland with a population of 800, with 300 houses. The problem was lack of enterprise in Loughmore which triggered The Cottage Tearooms being set up for the benefit of the community on a not for profit basis with all profits going back into the community.
The next step was to bring all the community together so a public meeting was called. The prospect of opening a Shop & Tearooms was put to the parish and they were offered the opportunity to become shareholders. Shares were offered and 90% of the parishioners took up the offer, which was a huge acknowledgement of their support. People signed up to become Volunteers, Food Producers and Craft exhibitors. Financial support was obtained from North Tipperary Leader under the Rural Village Rejuvination Scheme. A grant was sanctioned, a Bank loan was taken out and funds raised from the shareholding offer funded the rest.
The Cottage opened in August 2012 and has flourished ever since. It is going from strength to strength offering valuable services and creating a community hub. It has surpassed all expectations providing much needed employment, a retail outlet and has become the heart-beat of the community. It employs 4 people. 12 volunteers also offer their services and people with special needs also are given the opportunity to work. It provides work for students and local teenagers – all gaining valuable experience. The Cottage has 9 local food producers. 10 Crafts people exhibit and sell their work. It has also given a boost to local suppliers.
The main stakeholders are the Committee comprised of 7 people, a management committee of 4 people and all Shareholders.
