‘Fix it now, get on with it’ – Iveagh Markets campaigners urge as roof collapses

An integrated design team (IDT) appointed led by Howley Hayes Cooney Architecture & including CORA Structural Engineers, Homan O’Brien Mech. & Elec., IAC Archaeology and Austin Reddy QS. DCC have agreed a two-stage works programme for the markets, to be carried out as follows:

Stage 1

Following completion of a range of surveys including an asbestos survey, lead paint survey, invasive species survey, bat survey, drone and measured surveys, services surveys, an archaeological desktop assessment and detailed roof survey, a tender invitation is to issue in January 2024 for advanced works including removal of loose materials, installation of safe access routes, installation of crash decks & removal of vegetation. The IDT intends to have these works completed in Q1 2024.

Stage 2

Following completion of Stage 1 works above the IDT will have full and safe access to all areas which will allow them to complete the detailed design process and prepare tender documentation for a comprehensive repair programme. The repair programme will include – extensive repairs to roofs, valleys and rainwater disposal systems; protect & secure windows/doors; secure structural columns which have been exposed; repair walls and parapets; remove lead paint throughout and provide safe access to structures to facilitate a regular inspection and maintenance. The Stage 2 works are scheduled to commence in Q3 2024 and are likely to take between 12 and 18 months to complete.

"Get on with it"

"It is awful to see that no remedial works have begun yet on the Iveagh Markets. There is  significant new damage in the Wet Markets and the water ingress continues unabated.

We accept that repairs must be carried out to the highest standards but the Markets simply cannot be allowed to deteriorate any more. The Markets have been neglected for long enough. The fragile state of the Markets demands immediate urgency in making the building water tight. The timeline proposed by DCC needs to be hastened significantly to prevent the Markets from falling into irreparable disrepair. The Iveagh Markets represent so much of our culture and heritage and they need to be protected for future generations. Fix the Iveagh Markets, Fix it now. Get on with it".