Project to build long-awaited divisional Garda station in Macroom put out to tender

A project to build the long-awaited divisional Garda station in Macroom was put out to tender, a statement issued by Justice Minister Helen McEntee and minister of state for the Office of Public Works Kieran O’Donnell has confirmed.

The project involves the construction of a new divisional Garda headquarters for the county in the mid-Cork town, replacing the current divisional hub in Bandon.

The new headquarters will include a single two-, three-, and four-storey building as well as three standalone ancillary buildings on a greenfield site on the Millstreet Rd side of the town.

The new 4,33sq m development will be on a site of approximately 0.68 hectares, and it will be situated close to the new N22 bypass of the town.

Welcoming the progress of the project to the tender stage, Ms McEntee described it as being “an important part of our efforts to create stronger, safer communities”.

“It is very important that a growing town such as Macroom has a Garda station that is fully equipped to handle all of the challenges that every similar-sized community faces,” Ms McEntee said.

“It is also important that gardaí have modern facilities that are fit for purpose.

“This Garda station will enhance the service that gardaí are able to provide to residents and ensure that they are fully equipped to tackle crime in the area,” she added.

Macroom-based Fine Gael county councillor Ted Lucey said the project would deliver a welcome jobs boost for the town.

“As well as the gardaí — who will be based in the new divisional headquarters — there will be up to 70 civilian workers in the centre,” said Mr Lucey.

“It is anticipated that work will get under way on the site by the end of the year,” he said, adding that it is due to be completed in 2026.

The news that the project had gone to tender has also been welcomed by the former agriculture minister and Cork North West TD, Michael Creed.

Mr Creed said that he had worked hard while in the Cabinet to ensure the project was prioritised.

“This is a hugely significant project for the region,” Mr Creed added.

“As well as replacing the town’s current Garda station, the new building will also be a divisional headquarters located on a greenfield site next to the new fire station in Macroom town.”