A new design for Howth Old Courthouse as refurbishment works begins

The Old Courthouse of Howth is set to have a new look as refurbishments on the historic structure on Harbour Road are underway and set to continue over the next few months.

Fingal County Council’s Economic, Enterprise and Tourism Development Department has appointed Tolmac Construction Ltd as the main contractor for the refurbishment of the Old Courthouse in Howth. The works started on site in early January 2020 and it is expected to take six months to complete.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Eoghan O’Brien said: “The refurbishment of the Courthouse in Howth is welcome news and is much needed for such an important historic site. It is also great to see that it will remain an important community space to use for the residents of Howth as well as a central spot for tourist information.”

The building is a protected structure in a prominent site at the junction of Harbour Road and Church Street in eth town. The refurbishment will allow for greater public use of the building with improved access for the public.

Following the completion of works, the Fingal Tourism Tourist information office will be relocated from an existing temporary cabin on Harbour Road and the main hall will be retained as a flexible space for Community use.

A significant element of the work involves forming a new entrance courtyard to the western side to accommodate ramped access and allow for universal access to the building. The new landscaped entrance courtyard will provide an elevated amenity space with seating overlooking the harbour area. 

AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, added: “The refurbishment works of the Courthouse in Howth is another example of our continued commitment to investing in the heritage of Fingal. The refurbished building will provide much-needed community space for the residents of Howth.”

Emer O’ Gorman, Director of the Economic, Enterprise and Tourism Development Department, said: “Fingal County Council continues to invest in the heritage of the county and the refurbishment of the Old Courthouse in Howth will provide a restored space for the community.”

The refurbishments will continue over the coming months of 2020 with works hoping to be completed within six months.