THE repair and conservation of a well-known Northside building is nearing completion.
Work on the Malahide Casino began in April 2018 and has continued uninterrupted since.
The large thatch roof of the cottage orne was re-coated over the winter period with the help of a temporary structure that over sailed and wrapped the building allowing the thatcher to work underneath whatever the weather.
The beautifully restored thatched roof is now visible to the public again and is a distinctive feature at the entrance to Malahide village.
Internally, repairs and upgrading of services are also nearing completion as well as the construction of a new section of building to house the Fry Model Railway, owned by Fingal County Council.
Mayor of Fingal Cllr Anthony Lavin has unveiled a plaque to celebrate the conclusion of the conservation and restoration of the much-loved Casino building.
The installation of the Cyril Fry Model Railway to its new permanent home in the casino is underway as is the conservation of the model train collection.
It is expected that the Casino Model Railway Museum will be open to the public in early autumn.
Fingal County Architect Fionnuala May said: “The completion of this project will add to the portfolio of heritage properties that are owned by Fingal and will allow public access to this highly individual building. The Casino is the only cottage orne of this type in Fingal and is an important part of the county’s architectural heritage.
“The project is a good example of adaptation and reuse of an old building for a modern use whilst retaining its essential character.”
Mayor Lavin said he is delighted to see the refurbishment of the Casino.
“Over the years the people of Malahide have watched anxiously as it fell into disrepair and it is thanks to Michael Gaffney for his generous donation and Fingal County Council that we were able to conserve this unique and magnificent landmark,” he said.
“I am very much looking forward to the commissioning of the model railway museum in early autumn and I have no doubt it will be of benefit to the whole of Malahide village as it provides a natural flow for visitors from Malahide Castle and Demesne.”