Construction will begin in 2027, Louth County Council confirmed
New drone footage has offered a rare glimpse inside one of Drogheda’s most historic buildings as plans progress for a €7 million regeneration project that will transform West Gate House into a major community and youth development hub.
Work is continuing behind the façade of West Gate House and the former Drogheda Youth Development (DYD) building as part of Louth County Council’s THRIVE project, which aims to breathe new life into the landmark site in the heart of Drogheda.
Built around 1790, West Gate House had deteriorated to such an extent that it could not be safely accessed when the project first commenced. Instead, engineers and conservation specialists relied on drone technology to carry out the first detailed surveys of the historic structure.
Louth County Council released the drone footage this week, saying that the surveys helped to identify the essential works required to make the buildings safe and accessible.
A spokesman said a number of significant structural issues were identified, particularly in the older sections of the building.
“Floors were found to be unstable, while several roof and gable support beams had deteriorated. To allow detailed inspections to take place, extensive safeguarding works were carried out. These included supporting walls and ceilings, installing temporary floors and creating safe access routes throughout the buildings.”
The restoration project has also involved a major clean-up operation. Approximately six tonnes of asbestos were identified and safely removed, while debris, bird waste and rodent contamination were cleared and affected areas fully decontaminated.
The council confirmed the safeguarding works have allowed detailed architectural, engineering and archaeological surveys to be completed over the past few months.
“The findings from this work are informing the next stage of the project, with Shaffrey Architects currently developing the detailed design for the restoration and redevelopment of the facility, with construction scheduled to commence in 2027.”
The surveys are helping to build a clearer understanding of how West Gate House evolved over more than two centuries.
Research carried out to date shows the site has served many purposes throughout its history. Originally built as a family home, it later accommodated business, trade and industrial activity before becoming a guest house that many local people will remember today.
As part of this work, Louth County Council said it has engaged community historian Brendan Matthews to prepare a social history of the building and its occupants.
Details of a public presentation on the findings, due to take place in September, are expected to be announced shortly.
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