Galway County Council and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage are actively exploring the acquisition of Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara.
The castle has been closed for years, and is understood to need a multi-million euro investment to bring it up to standard, which the county council cannot afford to do by itself.
The update follows ongoing engagement between the relevant stakeholders and this will be seen as an important step towards securing the long-term future of the landmark.
Local Councillor Paul Killilea says it's a hugely important amenity and progress must continue at a faster pace now