Movement on new Bailieborough Garda Station

The first on-site meeting to examine the refurbishment options for the former National Irish Bank building's transformation into the new Bailieborough Garda Station take place this week.

The project has been planned for well over a decade, but has been dogged by delays. The existing bank building, which is a protected structure, is to be refurbished and a new three-storey over basement extension will be built to the rear.

Speaking on the news that the on site meeting is to take place Deputy Niamh Smyth spoke of her joy at the move: “I am delighted that we will have people actually on site this week to progress matters further. My understanding that set up works will commence after this week’s meeting and then full works will commence in January.”

The new station has been long awaited as the current one, on Barrack Street in the town, has been deemed not fit for purpose. The Barrack Street premises is a former RIC barracks, with a number of portacabins on site to increase capacity for Garda members.

Deputy Smyth said the development is welcome news: “This is a project I have been working on since being elected to Dáil Éireann with successive Ministers. Last month, I was delighted that my party colleague, Minister Michael McGrath, confirmed that the procurement phase for this project was well underway.

“I have been in contact with local Gardaí regarding the latest developments and will continue to impress the need for this new station to be completed at the earliest possible date,” concluded Deputy Smyth.