It's reported that Westmeath County Council has bid to purchase the Franciscan Friary church and adjoining property in Athlone.
The Franciscans left the town in January 2023, ending a presence of nearly 800 years.
Volunteers kept the church open for almost two years, but it closed in October 2024 after support from the Order ended.
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The adjoining friary has been used to house Ukrainian refugees, while the church's future has remained uncertain.
Councillors were briefed this week, with negotiations said to be positive but not yet finalised.
