New plans for Limerick site undeveloped for 25 years

AFTER more than a quarter of a century, there looks set to be some development around one of the most historic sites in the city centre.

Demolition of buildings in Nicholas Street in the 1990s revealed a historic stone wall containing a fireplace situated between what were two medieval stone houses.

Thought to date back to the late 15th century, the site in the heart of Medieval Limerick has been listed as a protected structure and named the Fireplace Site.

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The listing places strict conditions around development of the area, largely untouched since it was discovered.

Now though, as part of a multi-million euro project, council are proposing to develop a design and innovation hub in the buildings around the Fireplace Site, and incorporating the structure.

The facility will see artists' studios, workspaces, a retail area, an exhibition space, cafe/restaurant and an outdoor area which will provide views of the River Shannon and St Mary’s Cathedral.

The development includes the building of a new part two-storey, part single- storey building which will incorporate the upstanding walls of the Fireplace Site.

The development also takes place in the buildings at 36 to 39 Nicholas Street.

The usage of 35 Nicholas Street is proposed to be changed from residential, and a modern extension to this building is set to be demolished.

In its place, a three-storey extension is earmarked to be constructed.

Council has said the medieval walls will remain a “dominant feature” of the site.

It has looked to other medieval site redevelopments in the world for reference points, including Denbigh Castle in Wales and Kalø Castle in Denmark.

Since the development is taking place on council- owned land, it will be the role of members of the metropolitan district to either approve or reject the plans.

A public consultation on the proposals is open between now and February 24.

For more information, call 061-556000 or click here