Historic fort set to reopen after repairs

THE HISTORIC Camden Fort Meagher in Crosshaven is set to be reopened on Saturday, April 27.

The fort closed to the public for the 2023 season to allow for essential repair work to be carried out, to safeguard the structural integrity of the site for the future.

According to Cork County Council, Camden Fort Meagher is internationally recognised as being “One of the finest remaining examples of a classical coastal artillery fort in the world”.

For almost 400 years, the fort played a key role as a strong strategic position for the defence of Ireland, the west coast of England and Wales. Nearly two thirds of the fort is located underground, in a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers.

The fort has had extensive restoration works recently completed on the casemate block, which houses the fort’s primary exhibitions.

According to the council, specialist works carried out on the fort included the excavation, waterproofing and backfilling of its barrel-vaulted roofs. Traditional methods for stone cleaning and re-pointing of stonework with lime mortar to safeguard the integrity of the original construction were also employed.

In addition to the restoration work, the reopening will also see a new on-site ticket office and gift shop added to the visitor experience, which includes guided tours of the fort, as well as a café with breathtaking views of Cork Harbour from its balcony.

The restoration project has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Irish Construction Excellence Awards 2024.

“The extensive restoration works that have taken place during the fort’s closure to the public will ensure that the fort will be enjoyed and survive for generations to come,” said County Mayor Frank O’Flynn.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council Valerie O’Sullivan welcomed the volunteers who help to run the fort back on site, and she thanked them for their work in the past.

“Their dedication and passion continue to prove invaluable as we work together to preserve and promote this historical site for generations to come,” Mrs O’Sullivan said.

Cork County Council said that Camden Fort Meagher will remain open for an extended season from April to October this year.

Entry to the fort will cost €8 for adults and€5 for children, students and OAPs.