By Dan Walsh
The historic Mechanics Institute on Wexford’s Main Street will become a community space managed by Wexford County Council’s Community Department.
Over the past two years, the Special Projects team of Wexford County Council has conducted protection work on the historic structure to prevent additional deterioration. An internal refurbishment project is currently in progress to prepare the facility for regular community use.
The initial primary leaseholders will be a committee of established Wexford theatre groups known for their high-quality pantomimes, musicals, and dramas. Wexford Pantomime Society, Oyster Lane Theatre Group, and Wexford Drama Group will share the building for rehearsals, meetings, and storing props and costumes.
Commenting on the launch of the refurbishment project, Mayor of Wexford, Cllr. Garry Laffan said; “I am really delighted to see the old Mechanics Institute building being brought back to life after all these years lying empty. It has been a common issue raised by the public in recent years and it’s terrific that we have finally found a solution.
“Over the years, thousands of Wexford people have enjoyed and taken part in productions from all three of these theatre groups which are managed by production teams and committees of volunteers whose only driver is the sheer love of theatre,” added Mayor Laffan.
Wexford County Council Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe said; “I am delighted to have found such a relevant and much needed use for the historic Mechanics Institute. It is a great result all round for everyone involved and we hope the building will help strengthen the already excellent theatre culture enjoyed in the town.
“The building is centrally located on Wexford’s Main Street and so it is really important to bring it back into use for the people of Wexford. Hopefully now that we have made the investment, the building will continue to provide quality community space for future generations.”
The ’Mechanic’s Institute’ opened in 1858 and prospered for many years as a literary and library centre. In more recent times, the commercial and editorial offices of The Wexford People newspaper were above the front shop in the former Mechanics Institute, a once-elegant Victorian building with an interesting, arcaded shopfront on the ground floor.
In 2000, The Wexford People relocated from their premises on Main Street, situated opposite the junction with Anne Street, to newly constructed offices at Channing House on Rowe Street.
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