Trim Visitor Centre finally expected to go to tender in the third quarter of this year
A MAJOR upgrade of Trim Visitor Centre is expected to go to tender in the third quarter of this year according to the latest update on the project.
In response to a parliamentary question from Meath West TD Aisling Dempsey, the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation Jack Chambers confirmed that the design team is currently progressing through the detailed design phase.
This phase includes a range of technical and conservation investigations related to adapting the historic structure, along with the preparation of statutory compliance documentation and specialist design inputs.
The Minister indicated that tenders for the works are expected to be issued in the third quarter of this year, with a contractor due to begin on site in Quarter 1 2027. The estimated construction period is two years.
This latest update shows the indicative timescale has slipped from that provided in March of last year, when it was envisaged that tenders would issue by the end of 2025. Now it is confirmed that it will be the third quarter of this year before the tender is issued.
Planning permission is in place since February 2024 and it is now almost a decade since the OPW revealed its intention to knock the old dance hall extension to open up views of Trim Castle and redevelop the Market House building as a modern visitor centre.
The new visitor centre at Trim Castle will feature state of the art facilities, including interactive exhibits, interpretation spaces, educational resources and improved accessibility.
It is intended to strengthen the castle’s role as a key focal point for heritage and tourism in the region.
Speaking following the update, Deputy Dempsey said: “The wheels are turning on a project that will be transformational for a landmark at the heart of Meath.
“Investing in our amenities and landmarks is essential to preserve them for the future and to ensure that generations to come can enjoy them.
“I will continue to engage with the Department and the OPW in the months ahead to ensure this project remains on track for timely completion.”