Archaeological dig at Market House
A contractor working on behalf of Wexford County Council moved in on-site of Gorey Market House last week, causing speculation that the €2 million redevelopment of the historic building was getting under way.
The contractor completed an archaeological site testing on Friday to the rear of the Market House.
Communications Officer for Wexford County Council David Minogue said the on-site testing was undertaken as part of the archaeology assessment work that will inform the planning process currently under way for the extension and re-development of Market House.
‘To my knowledge nothing was found while they were there,’ added Mr Minogue.
The redevelopment works on the historic Market House has been in the pipeline for a number of years with speculation of several ideas for the building. But the redevelopment works moved one step closer in February of this year when the proposed plans were put on public display.
There will be a new extension to the rear of the building creating a multifunctional space which could be used as a exhibition, performance or retail venue with an estimated capacity of 1,000 people.
The plans, which are available on the county council website, were compiled following proposals from both interested parties and members of the public.
The €2 million revamp will see the former council chamber, which is located on the first floor of the building, protected and it will be retained for council and community use.
Following on from this the council will begin a procurement process for contractors as well as those interested in developing the Market House with the council. This is expected to take in the region of 12 months. It is expected that the refurbishment works themselves will take in the region of 12 to 18 months to complete.