Green light for Ardee Castle as works to begin before Christmas

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

It’s game on for the multi-million euro refurbishment of Ardee Castle, with works expected to get underway before Christmas, Louth County Council confirmed this week.

Councillors from Ardee Municipal District sought an update on the proposed works at the castle during their monthly meeting.

Senior Engineer John O’Hagan said the council shortly intend to issue a letter of intent to the preferred bidder, with an appointment expected by the end of the month.

Thereafter they will look to get a works programme from the contractor, and information on hoarding and a compound etc that will be needed on the site.

Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Dolores Minogue asked when they can expect “shovels on the ground.”

Mr. O’Hagan added that the council expect work to begin before Christmas, adding that the site is “very tight” and that a small tower crane may be needed.

He added that it is expected to be an 18 month contract.

"That’s brilliant news.. I think we can all breathe a sigh of relief,” said the Cathaoirleach.

Cllr. Jim Tenanty asked if accessibility issues had been sorted, and if the Castle lights can be erected again this year if work has commenced.

Mr. O’Hagan said the council would have discussions with the contractor to try to facilitate the Christmas lights.

He said the main focus of the work initially would be the judges chamber and the new build to the rear of the castle.

"There will be safety hoarding going up around the castle so we will look at how that might impact the lights,” he added.

He would keep councillors informed on progress.

The project was awarded an additional €1million in the last few months in order to bridge a “funding gap.” It had already been awarded €2.14 million in 2019.

Louth County Council has pledged to match fund the project.