By Dan Walsh
The formal signing of contracts to commence construction on the Gorey Market House Regeneration Project has been signed and Nevin Construction has been awarded the contract to deliver the landmark regeneration of one of Gorey’s most significant historic buildings.
Cllr Mary Farrell, Cathaoirleach, Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District, stated, the contract signing marked an important new chapter for Gorey Market House. “The regeneration of this historic building for community and cultural use means we are not only preserving its heritage but transforming the building for the future as a vibrant hub for creativity, connectivity, and shared experiences,” added Cathaoirleach Farrell.
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Lisa McDonald said; “I am delighted to see the significant investment in the Gorey Market House of €7 million under Thrive EU Funding with the Southern Regional Assembly, matched by a further €2 million investment by Wexford County Council. The project will sensitively restore and repurpose the historic building as a dedicated space for the community of Gorey and North Wexford. It will safeguard the Gorey Market House Architectural heritage and establish a sustainable, inclusive public amenity for all.”
The contract signing marks the official commencement of the project’s construction phase. Located in the centre of the town on Gorey’s Main Street, the Market House is the oldest building in Gorey and one of the oldest surviving market houses in Ireland. It is now set to begin an exciting new chapter as a vibrant centre for culture, creativity, and community.
Designed in line with the New European Bauhaus principles of sustainability, inclusivity and beauty, the regenerated Market House will provide flexible indoor and outdoor spaces for exhibitions, performances, workshops, markets, community events, and cultural activities while carefully preserving the building’s rich architectural and historical heritage.
This project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland, the European Union, through the ERDF Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme 2021–27 and Wexford County Council. The project has attracted national and European recognition as a leading example of heritage-led regeneration and adaptive reuse.
The signing of contracts represents the culmination of years of planning, consultation and collaboration between Wexford County Council, elected members, funding partners and the local community of Gorey and North Wexford.
Construction is expected to commence in the coming weeks, bringing the long-awaited transformation of this iconic landmark into reality.
Once completed, the restored Market House will become a vibrant civic destination in the heart of Gorey, creating a welcoming space for residents, visitors, community groups, and creatives.
The indoor and outdoor spaces will support exhibitions, performances, workshops, markets, cultural events, and community activities, ensuring this important heritage building continues to serve Gorey for generations to come.
WexfordLocal.com 