Waterford Urban Centre project award €7m funding
Waterford is one of five urban centres set to benefit from funding of up to €7 million each under THRIVE, the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme, awarded under Ireland’s two European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Regional Programmes.
The Town Centre First Policy, launched on 4 February 2022, is a major cross-government policy that aims to tackle vacancy, combat dereliction and breathe new life into our town centres. It advocates for a holistic, place-based approach to sustainable rural development. Irish towns are facing significant challenges and opportunities that require a coordinated and comprehensive response.
Waterford City and County Council was awarded €7 million under THRIVE Strand 2. This funding will be utilised to regenerate the largest early 18th Century townhouse, on one of the oldest streets in Waterford City’s Viking Triangle, “18 Lady Lane” which is currently vacant and derelict.
Using the Town Centre First approach and incorporating ongoing citizen and stakeholder engagement and an iterative process, the end use and design for 18 Lady Lane was co-created.
18 Lady Lane 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.
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.
Welcoming the funding, Michael Quinn, Director of Services with Waterford City and 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.
Under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), Waterford City and County Council is currently redeveloping the former Munster Express building on Merchant’s Quay into a smart data hub which will consist of a technological office building and an exhibition space.
Another project currently being undertaken is the redevelopment of Parade Quay to strengthen the existing local community through the development of mostly vacant buildings and under-utilised spaces. The mixed-use development will consist of 12 residential units along with commercial units, offices, and public realm space.
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Images:
External & Internal images of 18 Lady Lane, showing front façade and damage to the decorative ceilings following a fire in 2016 which destroyed much of the roof.
