Repairs to the roof of St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin have reached an important milestone with the completion of Phase 1 comprising the re-slating of the Nave. The section of Scaffolding to the Nave has now been removed and Phase 2 and 3 Works are well underway with the Transept’s, Crossing and Choir Sections fully scaffolded with weather protection. The existing slates have been removed and essential repairs to stonework and Stained-Glass windows continue in parallel with leadwork and slating
making up most of the work.

This is the largest project at the Cathedral since the restoration by Benjamin Lee Guinness 150 years ago. The distinctive blue grey slates used for the work have been sourced from the same Penrhyn Bangor Blue Slate quarry in Wales as those in the 1860s.

Covid-19 has had a considerable impact on the restoration works and indeed on the funding required to deliver the project. With over 600,000 visitors a year before the Covid-19 Pandemic much of the restoration funding came from tourism which has now been seriously curtailed.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral dates from 1220-1259, it’s an amazing 800 years old with an incredible timeline of history. Despite all the current setbacks the fabric of this iconic building is been protected for future generations to appreciate. The restoration works should be complete by August 2021 and we wish all concerned every success in reaching this milestone.