A wide welcome was expressed on Shannonside this week following confirmation from the Shannon Foynes Port Company (SFPC) that reinstatement works have begun to restore the historic Sailors’ Home building following an arson attack in 2023.
The port authority, which owns the property, said that it has procured a contractor to carry out the works.
The O’Curry Street property was extensively damaged in a fire in the early hours of July 1, 2023, but assessments confirmed that, despite the extensive damage, the property was repairable.
The works have now commenced and are expected to be completed by year end.
The port authority took over the building, which had been disused for over two decades, in 2012 and brought it back to life with a significant programme of conservation works to make the structure safe.
Social Democrats councillor for the area, Elisa O’Donovan, this week deemed the announcement as “fantastic news”.
“Our whole community was so upset to see the building gutted with fire in 2023. The Sailors’ Home is such a landmark building and has been well used for arts and cultural events and exhibitions over the years.
“As a local councillor, I welcome the news from Shannon Foynes Port Company that they will be renovating it and upgrading it. A good news day for Limerick City,” Cllr O’Donovan enthused.
Labour Party councillor for City West, Joe Leddin, also expressed his delight over the upgrade works on the historic building.
“The building, which was extensively damaged in a fire, played a hugely important role in the maritime history of our city since the 18th Century before being used as a Garda/Constabulary station,
“It is fantastic news that the building can be restored to its former glory with a range of potential opportunities in terms of future use now possible from both a cultural, educational, and enterprise perspective,” Cllr Leddin told the Limerick Post.
He added that he looks forward to “the beginning of a new and equally exciting chapter in the life of this magnificent building in our city”.
Independent councillor and Wolfe Tone Street resident, Maria Donoghue, believes that the refurbishment of the Sailors’ Home marks a significant and positive step forward, not only for our city, but for the community.
“It is heartening to see this vital piece of our heritage being revitalised. The Sailors’ Home has long been a distinctive and valuable venue in the City Centre, and its return to the vibrant arts and cultural scene in Limerick will undoubtedly strengthen our city’s reputation as a hub for creativity and cultural expression,” Cllr Donoghue opined.
“Strategically situated near key landmarks such as Dolan’s Warehouse, the Docklands, and other prominent venues, the Sailors’ Home is poised to serve as a pivotal events space for both local communities and visitors.
“With the right leadership and management in place, I am confident that this venue can enhance the cultural landscape of Limerick, attracting both local engagement and tourism.
“I strongly urge that any future management of this space be entrusted to an experienced organisation with a successful history in overseeing arts and events venues, ensuring the venue’s continued success and its positive impact on the community,” Cllr Donoghue said.
