Plans for new visitor attraction in Waterford to proceed following €7m funding boost

Exciting plans to convert the largest early 18^th Century townhouse, on one of the oldest streets in Waterford, have received a major funding boost.

Waterford City & County Council has been awarded €7 million in funding under THRIVE Strand 2, a government-backed initiative. 

The funding will be utilised to regenerate 18 Lady Lane which is currently vacant and derelict.

The premises will be converted into a visitor attraction - Tir na nÓg – the land of young people to create a magical journey of discovery celebrating children’s past, present and future while conserving the original fabric and decorative internal features of the building to ensure authenticity is retained.

READ ALSO: Permission refused for new walking trails along Waterford's Copper Coast

As part of the project, the building will be converted into a life size dolls house, with a café and terrace lit by pencil lights on the ground floor, a new lift will be installed resembling building blocks and a new fire escape will be installed resembling a Meccano set. 

In line with the New European Bauhaus values and principles the renovated building will be aesthetically beautiful with the sensory experience incorporated into all aspects of the design and will be fully accessible and inclusive.  

Tir na nÓg will develop a social inclusion plan to target children from socially disadvantaged communities and will set aside special days for children with sensory and intellectual challenges. 

Welcoming the funding announcement, Michael Quinn, Director of Services with Waterford City & County Council said: “This funding will allow us to further Waterford City and County Council’s objective of returning prominent heritage buildings to use and enhancing the city centre.”

According to the National Built Heritage Service, 18 Lady Lane is a house of national import and ‘forms an important and integral component of the streetscape.’

Mr Quinn added that the effect of the refurbishment of previously vacant and derelict buildings is transformative for a city that has a rich historical and cultural tapestry.

The THRIVE scheme was developed by the Southern Regional Assembly and the Northern & Western Regional Assembly, working in close partnership with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

Four other projects - in Wexford, Cork, Meath and Galway - have also received funding totalling €25m.