'Extensive renovation work is being carried out on one of Portlaoise's landmark buildings are part of phase one of what's expected to be an extensive development of new homes in the heart of the county town.
A total of 15 windows have been replaced on the front of the building with more to the rear and the gable lend. They appear to be georgian style sash windows of modern manufactor. The previous windows were wooden sash windows.
Clearance work is also being carried out inside the building. This is being carried out ahead of an extensive refurbishment. It's expected that the building will be used for residential purposes.
The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH), which is administered by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, says the the substantial detached townhouse built by Dr John Jacob, of the noted Jacob family of doctors and founder of the County Infirmary. It says that from 1912 the house was used as the Parochial House.
"It occupies a prominent position in the town and retains a wealth of original fabric both externally and internally," says the inventory.
The Doric portico and doorcase, which the inventory described as "one of the finest in the town" has been removed. The inventory describes the building as a highlight that needs careful restoration.
"Although in need of sensitive maintenance and conservation, the house along with its boundary walls and courtyard outbuildings is one of the highlights of Portlaoise's architectural heritage," it said.
The building is stop 21 on the Portlaoise Heritage Trail. A plaque was erected on the building by the Portlaoise Heritage Society supported by Laois County Council and Ireland's Heritage Council to denote this status.
The building is part of the property that was formerly owned by Portlaoise Parish. The house, stables, and two bungalows were sold along with property owned by the Presentation Sisters along the Ridge Road.
It's understood that a well-known local builder purchased the property with a view to developing for residential purposes.
The property was originally for sale with the former convent building and Scoil Mhuire NS and the site of the former Parish Church. However, this property was sold separately and is to be developed by Sophia Housing and Laois County Council for people in need of social housing.
If both projects on the former church lands proceed they would be located a the nearby development of the former Christian Brother property on Towerhill Portlaoise.
Laois County Council could not confirm or deny if pre-planning meetings had taken place with the site owner in relation to new construction on the former convent lands as they are carried out in confidence.
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