Following the recent good news on the proposed development of the Boyne Greenway, Minister of State for the OPW, Patrick O’Donovan that Oldbridge House and Complex is in line for significant extra government funding.
In response to a Dail question from local Deputy Fergus O’Dowd the Minister outlined OPW plans for an extensive refurbishment of Oldbridge House including the full restoration and opening of the upper floors.
O’Dowd said “When fully restored and operational the complex will provide an improved heritage experience with the flexibility to serve as a location for Government business into the future.
The Minister said that projects identified for 2024 include investigations into the restoration of the historic Pit House in the Walled Garden, works to conserve the remaining Estate Walls, a programme of interior and exterior painting, and upgrades to visitor facilities in the Walled Garden.
In the longer-term, the OPW plans an extensive refurbishment of Oldbridge House, to restore and open the upper floors in compliance with disability access and fire regulations. It is envisioned that the fully restored Oldbridge House will serve both as a heritage experience, encompassing the Battle of the Boyne and the lengthy ownership by the Coddington family, and will also have the flexibility to serve as a location for Government business.
The Farmyard Complex, located between the battlefield and the River Boyne, is in need of restoration works, and is not currently open to visitors. The OPW plans to develop a full project to refurbish and conserve the Farmyard to expand and evolve the scale and scope of visitor experience on site.
To progress this, a ground penetrating radar survey of the farmyard will begin shortly to identify any archaeological material below ground. Tenders have also been invited for an ecological survey of the Farmyard Complex as the first step in developing this landmark scheme. Delivery of this project will be subject to available funding.
Deputy O’Dowd said that in November of 2021, he and Ministers Coveney and O’Donovan met with OPW officials in Oldbridge House to discuss the possible opportunities for the facility to become a key meeting point for North South activities.
“The Minister has also confirmed plans to refurbish and conserve the Farmyard Complex, located between the battlefield and the River Boyne, which they plan to open to the public to expand the scope of the visitor experience.
O’Dowd added “It remains my firm believe that Oldbridge will become an international destination for tourists which will create very welcome employment and development opportunities.
“Alongside the ongoing development of the Boyne Greenway it really is exciting times for Oldbridge and the wider area.”
