An artist’s impression of what the courthouse project could look like

Exciting 'creative hub' plans move forward in Birr

Exciting plans to turn Birr's former courthouse into an exciting “creative hub” for visual artists, writers, and performers, is moving forward.

Tenders were recently sought for a Conservation Master Plan for the listed building in Townsend Street, which dates back to 1809 but has been closed since 2013.

Ownership is currently being transferred from the Office of Public Works to Offaly County Council, who are working with a community group called Birr 2020, the intended tenants of the premises.

According to the tender documents, they want to develop what's described as 'Birr Creative Court' with studio space, artists studios, a multi-functional space for dance and rehearsal, exhibition space, community art space to “meet a growing need for creative spaces and give new life and purpose to a significant heritage building in much need of looking after.”

Offaly County Council wants to put in place a programme of conservation works which would bring the building up to a standard for leasing.

“A number of funding opportunities may present during 2021 and this Conservation Master Plan is required to inform the council of the scope of works required and to prepare for a comprehensive submission,” the tender explains.

The successful tenderer, when appointed, will provide a full structural and conditions survey, identification of threats and opportunities for adaptation and reuse by the Birr 2020 group and budget costs for necessary conservation and adaptation works.

The budget allocated for preparation of the report is €30,000 and it is expected to be delivered within three months of the agreed start date.

The final report will be used as the brief for the future appointment of a full design team to implement the project, and the successful bidder should allow for consultation with the Birr 2020 group and the local authority as part of the plan preparation.

A steering group comprising of the Heritage Officer, Amanda Pedlow, and the Senior Executive Architect will guide the project, the tender documents explain.

The deadline for tenders is December 3. An appointment is expected to be made in the first quarter of 2021.