Endofthelinefor thewoodenworks

May 1995

Wexford witnessed the end of an era last week when workmen began the slow dismantling of the Woodenworks - the landmark which has itself witnessed huge changes in Wexford town down through the centuries.

As the workmen and engineers got down to business at Paul Quay last Wednesday in blistering sunshine, there was a twinge of regret written on the faces of a small number of onlookers.

For they were watching and witnessing the closure of another chapter in Wexford’s vivid history.

There are very few people living in Wexford who do not have some fond memories of the wooden quayside boardwalk, despite its rapid disintegration over the past number of years.

Hands up those who have enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the quayside on a warm summery evening. Or those who have sat for hours on a bollard, simply watching the world pass by.

Happily, Wexford Quays will again be safe and clean after the work, with the advent of the new marina.

Sadly, a small part of Wexford’s heritage has to go to make way for progress.

But the change should not seem so drastic. Over the past five years in particular, the Woodenworks have slowly become more and more hazardous.

With little or no upkeep, they have become more of an eyesore than a tourist attraction. Approximately five years ago, metal railings were erected along the Paul Quay side as a safety guard for passers-by.

Meanwhile, increased activity on the main quayfront has left the Woodenworks impassable in parts.

Thankfully the new marina will be clean and attractive, and if the model in the Municipal Buildings is anything to go by, it shall make Wexford an even more attractive tourist destination.

Progress doesn’t always have to be a dirty word.