Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
309. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide a full update in respect of all gates that were removed for restoration in the Phoenix Park; the full costs of same; and the timeline for the reinstallation of the gates. [21592/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works obtained permission, under Section 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2000-2002 (as amended) to remove seven pairs of gates and ancillary structures, from vehicular and pedestrian entrances at the perimeter of the Phoenix Park, in order to facilitate the free and safe movement of people and vehicles for the Papal visit to the Phoenix Park in 2018, and for their repair, refurbishment and reinstatement, to include in situ stone repair works at their existing locations.
All seven pairs of gates have now been refurbished and returned to the OPW for rehanging.
Works on the Knockmaroon gates, which were undertaken in situ, were completed in August 2020. The North Circular Road gates were fully restored and rehung in early December 2020.
Works on the rehanging of the remaining gates, located at Castleknock, Chapelizod, Blackhorse Avenue, Cabra and Islandbridge, including repair works to stonework and railings, were paused at the start of January 2021 due to the requirements of the Level 5 restrictions of the Government's Plan for Living with Covid-19.
Planning is underway for the resumption of works as soon as practicable. It is currently estimated that the remaining works will be concluded by end-July 2021.
Total expenditure on this project, to date, has amounted to €811,000.
