Louth County Council sign contract for Ardee Castle Regeneration
The regeneration of the castle is expected to take 18 months
Louth County Council have signed a contract for the regeneration of Ardee Castle.
The regeneration of the 15th-century tower house is expected to take 18 months and is scheduled to begin in early spring.
The project which is set to be carried out by Francis Haughey Construction Ireland Limited includes structural conservation, refurbishment of the castle, bridewell building and courtyard.
There will also be improved public access to all four floors of the tower as well as the integration of the castle into the wider Ardee 2040 regeneration vision.
It is hoped the regeneration will increase tourism, support local business and strengthen community engagement.
Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council said Ardee Castle is one of Louth's most important heritage landmarks.
"Today marks a major step forward in securing its future. This project will not only preserve the building but will also help bring new life into the heart of Ardee,” he said.
Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Ardee Municipal District told the January meeting of Louth County Council that she is "absolutely delighted" the regeneration is going ahead and said it will have "significant socioeconomic benefit for the town".
In a statement, Cllr Minogue said the local community in Ardee has looked forward to this project for many years.
"Its restoration will create a focal point for residents and visitors alike, and I am delighted to see this transformative project moving ahead,” she said.
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said it is committed to protecting heritage sites while driving sustainable regeneration in our towns and villages which will benefit people for generations to come.
"Revitalising this historic asset in the centre Ardee will enhance the town’s tourism potential, creating an inviting and accessible destination for visitors."
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.