Works at the Tholsel building in Kilkenny imminent
A total of €8 million has been invested in the contract
An appointed contractor is due to commence works at the The Tholsel in the coming weeks a spokesperson from the local authority has confirmed to Kilkenny Live.
The latest development follows a lengthy preparation period which can be dated back to 2019.
The 'Museum of Medieval Kilkenny' will receive a total investment of €8 million and provides for the unification of The Tholsel and the Medieval Mile Museum (formerly St Mary’s Church). with the overall objective to develop an offering that will become one of Ireland’s top visitor attractions.
Kilkenny County Council, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland signed a contract with, local company, Duggan Lynch Ltd to complete the works earlier this year.
The focus of this contract will centre on The Tholsel building and includes internal and external enhancement works along with the introduction of a lift for improved accessibility. The building, when works are complete, will continue to act as the seat of local government in the city, with some parts of the building converted for use as a visitor attraction including the basement.
There will also be a number of physical changes to the structure in an effort to bring the Tholsel up to modern fire safety and accessibility standards. At present, it does not comply with regulations. A lift to cater for people with mobility issues will also be installed.
The offering proposed will be presented in a fun and interactive manner in a fact-based horrible history experience, themed around 'The Rich, The Poor, The Rouges and The Righteous'. Where visitors will discover the darker side of medieval Kilkenny. They will meet the world’s most famous knight, powerful mayors and wealthy medieval merchants.