PURCELL CONSTRUCTION has won the contract to build a new city library in the heart of Dublin.
The Irish firm has been confirmed as main contractor for Phase 1 of the Parnell Square Cultural Quarter project, with construction due to begin in the coming weeks.
The project will deliver a new library for the capital, as well as restoring Georgian heritage buildings across the city and refurbishing the 1930s wing of the Hugh Lane Gallery.
“The appointment marks a major milestone in the delivery of one of the most significant civic and cultural projects undertaken in Dublin in recent decades,” Dublin City Council said in a statement.
“The project will anchor the transformation of Parnell Square into a vibrant cultural quarter centred around a new City Library, creating a unique destination that brings together literature, art, heritage and community while supporting the regeneration of Dublin's north inner city,” they added.
Phase 1 of the project will see a new five-storey City Library built at Parnell Square North, which will replace the existing Central Library at the Ilac Centre.
"The commencement of construction on the Parnell Square Cultural Quarter marks a defining moment for Dublin and for the future of our city centre,” Lord Mayor of Dublin Daryl Barron said today.
“This landmark project will deliver a world-class City Library, restore and celebrate some of Dublin’s most important historic buildings, and create a vibrant cultural and civic destination in the heart of our capital.”
He added: “It is an investment in learning, creativity, heritage and community that will benefit Dubliners for generations to come.”
Derek Timlin, Managing Director of Purcell Construction Limited, said they are “delighted” to partner with Dublin City Council on the project.
“As construction gets underway, our focus will be on working collaboratively with all stakeholders to deliver a project of the highest quality while minimising impacts on the local community,” he said.
“We look forward to playing our part in creating a new City Library and cultural quarter that will become a source of pride for Dublin and a destination for visitors from Ireland and beyond.”