This fantastic project has taken a building which had been vacant for two decades and has carefully restored and refurbished the existing protected structure and transformed it into a bright, open and welcoming public space with a performance space and remote working opportunities.

A new café facility has also been provided facing a beautifully landscaped rear courtyard with a well which was only discovered during the works and is now incorporated as a wonderful feature.

Works commenced on site in Portumna Courthouse in February 2024 and were successfully completed by June 2025. Kelbuild from Mullingar have been appointed as the Main Contractor. They specialise in Heritage projects, and their experience shown through in the delivery and execution of the works which we are pleased to say that the project was delivered on time and within budget. A good news story for a public works project.

The works included the refurbishment of the roof finish (natural slate), selected raking out and re-pointing externally and lime rendering internally. The timber sliding sash windows have been magnificently restored and the works to the lath and plaster ceilings are almost complete. The works included full upgrade of mechanical and electrical works to ensure this building lasts long into the next century.

The project is led by the very experienced Ronan O’Connor from O’C + C Architects, and he is being assisted by O’Connor Sutton Cronin Structural Engineers and JV Tierney Services Engineers. The Client is Galway County Council.

Photographs by Jacinta Fahy.