Councillors welcome timeline for reopening of historic fort

FOLLOWING the announcement at the beginning of the week of an opening date for Camden Fort Meagher in Crosshaven, local councillors have welcomed the news that the fortified facility will be opened as a tourism attraction on April 27 next.

The announcement of the opening date, of what has been described as “one of the finest remaining examples of a coastal artillery fort”, comes after the recent completion of extensive and painstaking restoration works on the casemate block as well as other works throughout the facility.

These included the excavation, waterproofing, and back-filing of barrel-vaulted roofs, along with the employment of traditional methods for stone cleaning and re-pointing of stonework with lime mortar.

When the fort reopens at the end of April, it will also include a new on-site ticket office, gift shop, and café with breathtaking views of Cork Harbour to add to each visitor’s experience.

Carrigaline Municipal District Council chairman, Fianna Fáil councillor Audrey Buckley, expressed her delight at this week’s announcement of an opening date.

“We are looking forward to seeing all the work that has been accomplished since its closure back in 2019 due to covid-19,” she said.

“Many of us are looking forward to sitting out ‘on deck’ at the café, watching the racing out in the harbour, and the many cruise ships passing by.”

Independent councillor Marcia Dalton described the fort as a “world-class piece of heritage with so much potential”.

“We’re all very excited to be working towards achieving and showcasing that,” she said.

According to fellow Independent councillor Ben Dalton O’Sullivan, the announcement of the April 27 opening date was a “very positive, good-news story” for the harbour area as it prepares for the summer tourism season.

Fine Gael councillor Jack White paid tribute to the efforts of Cork County Council staff and volunteers who ensured the reopening could successfully occur.

“They deserve tremendous credit,” he said.

“Managed correctly, Camden Fort Meagher can become a major driver of tourism and economic growth in Crosshaven, and indeed South Cork as a whole.”

Fellow Fine Gael councillor Úna McCarthy also welcomed the reopening of Camden Fort Meagher.

“The significant investment by Cork County Council has allowed the extensive restoration work to take place,” she said.

“The guided tours of the fort as well as the cafe with the stunning views of Cork Harbour will all add to the visitor experience to this historical site.

“I’m certain it will attract many visitors, both domestic and international, for many years to come,” she added.

Councillor Séamus McGrath of Fianna Fáil said that the fort was a “wonderful local facility”.

Mr McGrath added that he was delighted to hear that it will be reopened at the end of next month.

Describing the refurbished facility as “the jewel in the crown of our wonderful offering to tourists and visitors” to Cork Harbour, Mr McGrath said a “strong promotion campaign” was needed to showcase the superb offering across the harbour area with Camden Fort Meagher at its heart.

The restoration work at the facility has earned Cork County Council a nomination for the 2024 Irish Construction Excellence Awards.