Louth’s Tholsel restoration wins Murdoch Award

The contractors responsible for the leadwork on Louth County Council’s historic Tholsel building in Drogheda have been named as the winners of the 2025 Murdoch Award by the Lead Contractors Association (LCA) in the UK.

M&I Lead Contractors Ltd, based in Balbriggan, Co Dublin, received the award for their exceptional craftsmanship in leadwork, completed in 2024 as part of the restoration of the Tholsel’s iconic clock tower, which was erected in 1770 and was the centre of municipal authority in Drogheda for over 130 years.

Louth County Council had engaged James Oliver Hearty & Sons Ltd of Co Armagh to carry out the roof restoration, with M&I Lead Contractors Ltd appointed as a domestic subcontractor for the leadwork.

Conservation architect Liam Mulligan, who is based in Kells, and structural engineer Thomas McGuinness, from Dundalk Civil and Structural Engineering Ltd, provided consultancy services to the council for the Tholsel Project.

The Murdoch Award is regarded as the highest accolade in the field of leadwork, recognising excellence in design and installation among specialist members of the LCA. The Tholsel project was one of only three shortlisted entries from across Ireland and the UK.

Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “Everyone at Louth County Council extends our warm congratulations to M&I Lead Contractors Ltd on this outstanding achievement, and also commends James Oliver Hearty & Sons Ltd for their role in delivering a project of such high quality. The Murdoch Award is fitting recognition for the quality work that went into reestablishing such a historic building.”

Cllr Michelle Hall, Mayor of Drogheda, added: “The Tholsel is at the heart of Drogheda’s heritage and identity. Seeing it restored with such care and craftsmanship is a source of pride for our community. Congratulations to all involved in this remarkable achievement.”

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“This award is a testament to the skill and dedication of the teams involved in restoring one of Drogheda’s most treasured landmarks,” said David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council. “The Tholsel is a protected structure of significant historical value, and this restoration ensures its preservation for generations to come.”

The restoration of the Tholsel building represents Louth County Council’s commitment to conserving the architectural heritage of the region.