Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Ms Heather Humphreys TD, has confirmed that the second phase of works authorised by the High Court to safeguard the national monument at Nos. 14 - 17 Moore Street is underway.
There will be a significant increase in activity on site in preparation for roof renewal works and other measures to preserve and protect the buildings. Essential stabilisation works to the buildings were carried out before the construction industry’s August break.
The ‘Plunkett’ shop sign on No. 16 has been removed temporarily to facilitate scaffolding. It will be carefully stored with a view to being re-incorporated into the completed project. The sign itself dates from several decades after 1916 and does not have any direct association with 1916 leader, Joseph Plunkett.
The internal fabric of the buildings is being protected as part of the works, and as much original material as possible is being preserved for reinstallation. The works are being carried out under the supervision of expert conservation architects and are being overseen by the Chief Archaeologist and architects from the Minister’s own Department.
Speaking today Minister Humphreys said:
“These important works, which have been approved by the High Court, will ensure the landmark buildings at Nos 14-17 Moore Street are as well protected as possible until a permanent solution is agreed for them.
“I am conscious that the hoarding to the front of the buildings is causing an inconvenience for the Moore Street traders. While the works must be undertaken with great care and precision, I am anxious that the works should be completed as speedily as possible to allow the hoarding and scaffolding to be taken down, so normal trading conditions can be restored.”
ENDS
Note to Editors – additional information on the works:
Additional scaffolding work will begin this week to support a weatherproof membrane that will cover the four houses and protect the internal fabric while the roofing repair and renewal is carried out. Existing natural slates will be saved for reuse on site. Sound roof timbers will also be retained and repaired. Replacement slates or timbers will only be introduced where existing materials are decayed or missing.
The roofing works will be followed by repairs to secure and stabilize external facades and extensions to the rear of the buildings, dismantling and reinstatement of chimney stacks and parapets (where unstable), together with renewal of flashing and gutters -all designed to safeguard the buildings from the elements.