The Office of Public Works announced that a planning application has been submitted as of Thursday 8th September, for the demolition of the previous Garda station and the construction of a new District Garda HQ in Newcastle West, Co Limerick.  Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan, T.D., along with Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee T.D. made the announcement today at the site of the proposed new station in Newcastle West.
Minister O’Donovan said: “I am delighted to announce the lodgement of the planning application which shows our commitment to this programme of planned construction for a new purpose built District Garda HQ in Newcastle West. Once completed, this building will enhance the public presence in the town while facilitating the policing infrastructure capacity for the region and the surrounding areas.”
The new District Garda HQ will consist of a new 3 storey building of 1151 square metres on a site of circa 0.1651 ha. It will replace the old Garda station on the site and will provide the operational, functional and accommodation requirements demanded by the new Garda operation model. It will also offer the opportunity to improve utilisation of a state owned property.
The design proposal for the new station is of a three storey brick building located to the front of the site maximising the secure yard to the rear. The main volume of the building is set back from the street, with a single storey pavilion placed to the front presenting a welcoming and accessible entrance for the public. The choice of brick reflects the material palette of other public buildings in Newcastle West, with the new façade to the street reflecting the civic nature of a Garda station.
Minister McEntee commented “I am delighted that the wheels have been set in motion for the construction of this new Garda station in Newcastle West. The construction of a new Garda Station is such an important development for policing in Newcastle West and the wider area. Once completed, the station will provide a modern fit-for-purpose facility for Garda members and staff, further enhancing the service provided to the local communities”.
The project when completed will provide a new public entrance that is accessible to all, incorporates new facilities for the Gardaí and is befitting of the station’s new status in the region and nationwide.
The completed project will give Newcastle West and the Mid-West an additional policing infrastructure capacity to meet present and future demands. The new station is vital to the provision of policing services in support of the wider Garda organisational strategy and to provide a more agile and responsive police service improving safety for local communities.