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04 Apr 2026
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04 Apr 2026
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Birr Workhouse has been a derelict building for many years and was badly damaged by fire in 2017.
BIRR Workhouse remains in limbo, in a state of dereliction, with no words from its owners since early 2020.
Prior to Covid the landmark building seemed well on course to being transformed into a centre for dementia sufferers, but for the last three and a half years nothing has been heard about the project.
The premises was badly damaged by fire in 2017 and a large part of the roofs are missing. A gateway restricting access was installed in early 2020.
The private owners are Castle Rook, a global Chinese investment firm operating collaboratively in London and Dublin.
Cllr John Clendennen, Chairperson of Birr Municipal District, said it was sad to see the building in its current state and it was very disappointing that the much-trumpeted dementia centre hadn't come to fruition. Cllr Clendennen said the Council doesn't have any plans to try and do anything about the situation.
He added that everyone in the Council, whether the councillors or on the executive, wants to bring as many buildings as possible in Offaly out of dereliction limbo.
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