Children’s cancer charity, Cancer Fund for Children, has announced that construction of Daisy Lodge, a purpose-built therapeutic short break centre for children diagnosed with cancer and their families, will begin in August 2025. Following a public procurement process, the construction contract has been awarded to Connolly and Fee Ltd, with the build expected to take approximately 18 months to complete.

This new 30,000 square ft therapeutic centre to be built on the shores of Lough Corrib in Cong, Co. Mayo, will offer families across Ireland, impacted by childhood cancer, a safe and restorative space to spend quality time together and reconnect. Families will benefit from expert therapeutic support delivered by the charity’s dedicated team of Cancer Support Specialists, enjoy complementary therapies and nutritious meals, take part in family activities, and connect with others going through similar experiences.

The total cost to build and equip Daisy Lodge is €20 million. In June 2023, the Department of Health pledged €5 million in capital funding for the project, along with €2.5 million from the Shared Island Fund. Thanks to the generosity of communities, businesses, funders, and donors across Ireland and beyond, the charity is now within reach of its target. Fundraising continues to ensure that families can begin accessing much-needed short breaks as soon as Daisy Lodge opens its doors in early 2027.

Children diagnosed with cancer will be referred for short breaks at Daisy Lodge by Cancer Fund for Children’s team of Cancer Support Specialists, who provide support to families both in the community and in hospital settings across the island of Ireland. The charity’s existing centre in County Down currently supports up to 1,800 family members each year. The addition of a second Daisy Lodge will double this capacity, enabling up to 4,000 family members annually to benefit from this vital service.

Speaking of the news, Shane Connolly, Director of Connolly & Fee LTD, said,

‘Connolly & Fee is delighted to be undertaking the build of Daisy Lodge, Mayo. For our team, this is much more than a construction project; the purpose holds personal weight for many of us, and it is a privilege to be a part of something that will deliver immeasurable benefits to families navigating cancer. We are looking forward to working in tandem with Cancer Fund for Children’s team, the local Cong community, and wider stakeholders. We hope that we can actively engage local supply chain partners and construction personnel in the delivery of this project.’

Paul McMahon, Architect and Director from d-on Architects, added,

“We’re incredibly pleased to be moving into the next stage of the journey with Cancer Fund for Children, and to welcome Connolly & Fee to the project team. It’s the result of many years working closely with Cancer Fund for Children’s CEO, Phil Alexander and his colleagues to bring their vision to life — a vision rooted in the healing power of nature and place.

The new Daisy Lodge building is designed to sit gently in the beautiful landscape of County Mayo and to support wellbeing through biophilic design, where the sustainable natural materials create a sense of calm and comfort. By surrounding young people and their families with natural materials, we aim to evoke the same restorative qualities that come from being immersed in nature. This building is very much about supporting healing in the landscape — and through the landscape.”

In preparation for construction beginning in 2025, site clearance was completed last year under the supervision of both an archaeologist and an ecologist. A sub-base has been laid for a new access road, car park, building footprint and outdoor play area.

Once open, Daisy Lodge will create new full-time and part-time roles across hospitality, housekeeping, facilities management, administration, and therapeutic support. Cancer Fund for Children will continue to engage with the local community to foster shared opportunities, encourage volunteering, and raise awareness of the needs of families affected by childhood cancer.

“Today marks a truly groundbreaking moment for Cancer Fund for Children, as construction begins on our much-needed second therapeutic short break centre for families affected by childhood cancer,” said Phil Alexander, CEO of Cancer Fund for Children.

“This milestone would not have been possible without the incredible support of our stakeholders – including the Department of Health, HSE, the Shared Island Fund, the local community, funders and our generous donors. Our commitment to engaging with all of you will continue throughout this next vital phase. We are deeply grateful for your belief in our vision, and we look forward to taking you on this journey with us as we strive to ensure no child faces cancer alone. Together, we are creating a special place for families impacted by childhood cancer.”

You can view more info on the charity and the Daisy Lodge Mayo project by visiting their website, www.cancerfundforchildren.com

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Michael McDonnell Managing Editor of Irish Construction Industry Magazine & Plan Magazine

Email: michael@irishconstruction.com      WWW.MCDMEDIA.IE