Temporary Closure of Wicklow’s Historic Gaol
Wicklow Gaol has temporarily closed its doors to facilitate essential renovations and upgrades. These improvements will help ensure that the Gaol remains a key tourism and heritage attraction, serving the people of Wicklow for many years to come.
As the contract with the current operator, Wicklow Historic Gaol CLG, under the guidance of Wicklow Enterprise Park, comes to a natural end, Wicklow County Council extends its sincere thanks to Wicklow Enterprise Park and its staff. Their hard work and dedication over the years have made the Gaol what it is today. Their invaluable commitment has kept Wicklow Gaol at the heart of our community and promoted Wicklow on a national stage for international visitors.
Wicklow County Council also thanks Wicklow Chamber of Commerce and the community of Wicklow for their ongoing support and patience as we move forward with the procurement process towards a new era for the Gaol.
The Council has commissioned a Conservation Management Plan that will inform a schedule of improvement works for the historic fabric of Wicklow Gaol. Initial efforts will address leaks and essential repairs, along with some external maintenance.
Currently, Wicklow County Council is engaged in a procurement process to select a new operator to manage this historic building and key tourism asset, further building upon the Gaol’s strong foundations.
The vision for the future of Wicklow Gaol will be supported by the new operator and includes updating the current exhibition and creating new themed events for seasonal activities such as Halloween and Christmas, etc... The plan also involves maximizing food and drink opportunities, as well as retail options. Wicklow County Council hopes to see the Gaol used more by the local community for festivals and events.
Following the procurement process and improvement works, it is anticipated that Wicklow Gaol will reopen within a few months, ready for the next summer tourist season.
“On behalf of Wicklow County Council, I would like to thank Wicklow Enterprise Centre for looking after the Gaol over the last years” says Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council.
“This short break is an opportunity for Wicklow County Council to give extra focus and attention to the Gaol, and have it ready to maximise its various opportunities to the benefit of the community, the town and the county.”
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, welcomed the changes to Wicklow Gaol, stating, “I would like to thank the community and various stakeholders, including Wicklow County Tourism, Wicklow Chamber of Commerce and Wicklow Historic Gaol CLG, for their ongoing support during this transitional period.”