FINGAL County Council has marked the completion of the current phase of conservation works at Swords Castle, and another chapter in its history.
The work, a mix of architectural and landscaping conservation, which began this year, has provided renewed access to the castle enclosure and buildings, and, with it, the opportunity to avail of new cultural uses for the space.
The castle is now open to the public, complete with a new Tourism Office, with the adjacent chapel offering a glimpse into the medieval origins of the space. The Digging History Community Archaeology Project, the second season of which took place in 2016, further uncovered the depth of history in its built environment.
Demolition of the terrace of shops on North Street has allowed for a complete view of the façade of the castle, and to allow the buildings to serve as a backdrop for Cultural Quarter plans.
Work included the installation of a replacement stone vault at the gatehouse that was constructed with a hot lime mortar mix, and, in the room above the vault, new flooring and roof, with missing steps in the existing stone spiral re-inserted to allow access.
Presenting the Fingal Tourism office with an award for Excellence In Customer Service, the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Darragh Butler, commented on the work of Fingal staff, contractors and community groups in bringing the project to fruition.
“The castle is regaining its role as a focal point of our county town and is encouraging Fingal natives and tourists alike to come and experience the history and grandeur of the site,” he said.