Main contractor appointed for construction of new Limerick garda station

THE MAIN contractor for the construction of the new Newcastle West garda station to replace the old rat infested one has been appointed this week.

In June 2015, an engineer’s inspection carried out at the behest of the Garda Representative Association (GRA) found the former station on Churchtown Road in the town was too small and had a rodent problem. The GRA described it as “not fit for purpose”. It was demolished last November.

The new Newcastle West garda station will consist of a new three-storey building of 1,200 square metres on a site of circa 0.1651 hectares. 

It will replace the old garda station on the site and will provide the operational, functional and accommodation requirements to deliver the new Garda Operating Model (artist's impression below).

The progress in the plan has been welcomed by the two local ministers - Niall Collins and Patrick O’Donovan.

Mr Collins said the project has been long overdue so it’s really good news, with both working members of An Garda Siochana and the public who used the previous facilities having to “endure unacceptable substandard conditions”. 

“That went on for far too long. Every community, worker and member of the public is entitled to access State-provided public services in a fit for purpose building. I look forward to now seeing construction and delivery of this new building as soon as possible,” said Mr Collins.

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Mr O’Donovan said it will be one of the biggest buildings constructed from a public point of view in the town of Newcastle West or indeed West Limerick.

“During my time as Minister for the OPW, I worked tirelessly to get this project up and running. Now as a cabinet minister I am delighted to see this project proceeding to construction. 

"Work is currently underway to appoint the mechanical and electrical contractors for the project. As soon as this is completed, construction will commence at the site. The enabling works for the project including demolition of the previous station on the site have already been completed." 

“This is very positive news for the town, the wider West Limerick area, the members of An Garda Síochána and the civilian staff who will work in the station,” said Mr O’Donovan.