From Dublin’s Georgian Custom House to the modern Green Atlantic renewable energy project, Ireland’s construction achievements span three centuries and tell the story of national evolution. These projects reflect Ireland’s journey from colonial past to modern European state, showcasing innovation through changing times.
This collection highlights significant Irish construction across religious, transportation, energy, urban, and cultural sectors. From cathedrals to renewable energy installations, these projects demonstrate how Ireland has adapted its built environment to meet changing social and economic needs, supporting a globally connected economy.
St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1842-1855 | Religious building | Killarney, County Kerry | Funded by public subscription | Provided a significant religious center in Killarney |
St. Mary’s Cathedral was designed by August Pugin in Neo-Gothic style, featuring long lancet-shaped windows and a blend of Corinthian and Doric architectural orders. Built with Sicilian marble and Caen stone, the cathedral is crowned by an impressive 280-foot spire that dominates the Killarney skyline. Construction was notably interrupted by the Great Famine, which significantly challenged the project’s completion timeline.
Castletown House
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1722-1756 | Stately home | Celbridge, County Kildare | Not specified | Served as a prominent Palladian country house |
Castletown House influenced the design of the White House in Washington, D.C. and features a magnificent 132-foot Great Gallery inspired by the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. Designed by Alessandro Galilei and Edward Lovett Pearce, this architectural marvel contains 52 chimneys and 75 fireplaces throughout the structure. The construction provided critical employment opportunities during the Irish Famine, helping to sustain the local community during this difficult period.
Casino at Marino
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1758-1775 | Garden pavilion | Marino, Dublin | Not specified | Served as a garden pavilion for the Earl of Charlemont |
The Casino at Marino appears deceptively small from the outside but cleverly contains 16 rooms across three floors, designed by the renowned Sir William Chambers. Built as a Neoclassical structure resembling a Greek temple, it represents one of Ireland’s finest examples of 18th-century architectural ingenuity. Interestingly, the design was originally intended for Harewood House in Yorkshire before being commissioned for its Dublin location.
Dublin and Kingstown Railway
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1834-1837 | Railway | Dublin to Kingstown (Dún Laoghaire), County Dublin | Approximately £200,000 (€25 million today) | Enhanced commuter travel between Dublin and its port |
The Dublin and Kingstown Railway holds the distinction of being the first dedicated commuter railway in the world, built to standard gauge of 1,435 mm. The 10 km line, constructed by contractor William Dargan, significantly increased passenger traffic between the city and its important harbor. This pioneering transportation link is now incorporated into Dublin’s modern DART system, demonstrating its lasting significance to the region’s infrastructure.
River Shannon Navigation Works
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1780-1820 | Infrastructure | River Shannon, various counties | Approximately £1 million (€1.5 million today) | Improved navigation and trade along the River Shannon |
The River Shannon Navigation Works enhanced economic opportunities for regions along Ireland’s longest river through the construction of locks, weirs, and canals. These improvements facilitated trade and commerce by making the Shannon navigable for larger boats throughout its course. Despite altering natural habitats and ecosystems along the river, the project played a significant role in the economic development of the Irish Midlands.
Lough Corrib Canal
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1844-1850 | Infrastructure | Galway, County Galway | Approximately £100,000 (€1.2 million today) | Connected Lough Corrib to the sea, enhancing trade |
The Lough Corrib Canal facilitated the transportation of goods and people between Galway and the interior while improving drainage of surrounding lands. Construction involved building a canal and locks to connect Lough Corrib to the sea at Galway, modifying local ecosystems in the process. Although completed as planned, the canal never achieved its full potential due to engineering challenges and changing economic factors of the era.
Dublin Gas Company Establishment
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1820-1824 | Energy Infrastructure | Dublin, County Dublin | Not specified | Provided gas lighting for public use |
The Dublin Gas Company was established by a parliamentary act in 1820 as one of the first gasworks in Ireland, using coal as the primary fuel source. The project involved constructing gasworks and laying underground pipes for gas distribution throughout the city. Despite initial public objections and concerns over noxious vapors and water contamination, this development marked the beginning of modern energy supply in Ireland.
Peat Charcoal Production by Colonel Kitchener
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1850 | Renewable Energy | Various locations | Not specified | Developed improved peat briquettes with higher heat output |
Colonel Kitchener experimented with peat to produce charcoal for gunpowder, leading to the creation of peat briquettes with improved heating efficiency. The process involved compressing peat into briquettes to enhance its energy density and create a more effective fuel source. Though peat harvesting could lead to environmental degradation if not managed properly, this innovation contributed significantly to Ireland’s energy self-sufficiency during times of resource scarcity.
Wide Streets Commissioners’ Urban Renewal
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1757-1849 | Urban Renewal | Dublin, County Dublin | Not specified | Transformed Dublin’s urban landscape |
The Wide Streets Commissioners established some of Europe’s first planned retail streets, compulsorily purchasing and clearing property for new developments with unified architectural designs. The project involved laying out new streets like Parliament Street and Westmoreland Street, focusing on cohesive facades and shopfronts throughout the city. This urban renewal played a crucial role in Dublin’s development during the Georgian period, despite causing significant social impact through the displacement of residents.
King William’s Town Colony Development
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| Late 18th – Early 19th century | Planned Community | North Cork, County Cork | Not specified | Served as an experimental model for improving agricultural practices |
The Kingwilliamstown Colony focused on integrating agricultural improvements with social reforms, aiming to create a self-sufficient community in rural Cork. The development involved establishing new farming practices and creating a model village to demonstrate modern agricultural techniques. This project formed part of broader efforts to modernize Irish agriculture and settlement patterns during a period of significant agricultural transformation.
Kylemore Abbey
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1864-1871 | Building | Kylemore, County Galway | Approximately £29,000 (€3.5 million today) | Initially a private residence, later a Benedictine abbey |
Kylemore Abbey was originally built as a private residence for Mitchell Henry, featuring an elegant Gothic Revival style with intricate stone carvings. Constructed using local limestone and granite, the building includes a chapel and extensive gardens that complement its dramatic mountain setting. The abbey had minimal environmental impact due to its isolated location and has since become one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations.
National Museum of Ireland
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1877-1890 | Building | Kildare Street, Dublin, County Dublin | Approximately £60,000 (€7.5 million today) | Houses a vast collection of Irish artifacts and cultural exhibits |
The National Museum of Ireland was officially established on August 14, 1877, though the building on Kildare Street, which houses the Archaeology section, was opened in 1890 as the Dublin Museum of Science and Art. The building was designed by Thomas Newenham Deane and his son, Thomas Manly Deane. The museum descended from collections of several Dublin cultural institutions, primarily the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) and the Royal Irish Academy (RIA).
Cork, Bandon and South Coast Railway
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1845-1851 | Railway | Cork, County Cork | Not specified | Enhanced transportation and tourism along the southern coast of Ireland |
The Cork, Bandon and South Coast Railway focused on tourist traffic and connected with road car routes like the Prince of Wales Route from Bantry to Killarney. This single-line railway covered a route length of 150 km, serving towns along the southern coastal strip west of Cork. The railway played a significant role in local economic development and tourism while having minimal environmental impact as it followed existing terrain.
Clonakilty Extension Railway
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1885-1886 | Railway | Clonakilty, County Cork | Not specified | Extended rail service to Clonakilty, enhancing local connectivity |
The Clonakilty Extension Railway was operated by the Cork, Bandon and South Coast Railway as a key extension for local transportation needs. This 14 km single-line extension formed part of the broader CB&SCR network, connecting the town to the main rail system. The project contributed significantly to the economic development of Clonakilty and surrounding areas before its eventual closure.
Loughrea and Attymon Light Railway
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1888-1890 | Railway | Loughrea, County Galway | Not specified | Improved transportation in rural areas of County Galway |
The Loughrea and Attymon Light Railway was operated by the Midland Great Western Railway as a light railway serving local communities in rural Galway. The 14 km line was specifically designed for local passenger traffic and goods transport to connect isolated areas. With minimal environmental impact due to its limited infrastructure, the railway played an important role in the economic and social development of rural Galway.
Vartry Reservoir
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1862-1868 | Reservoir | Roundwood, County Wicklow | Approximately £200,000 (€25 million today) | Provided a reliable water supply to Dublin City |
The Vartry Reservoir was one of the first large-scale water supply projects in Ireland, designed to serve Dublin’s growing population through a 22-mile pipeline. Construction involved significant engineering works including a dam and water treatment facility in the scenic Wicklow countryside. While the project altered the local ecosystem, it provided an essential reliable water source for Dublin and remains an important part of the city’s infrastructure.
River Liffey Flood Control Works
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1870-1880 | Flood Control | Dublin City, County Dublin | Approximately £150,000 (€18 million today) | Reduced flooding in Dublin City |
The River Liffey Flood Control Works involved significant civil engineering to protect Dublin from frequent flooding as part of broader urban development efforts. The project included constructing new river walls and improving drainage systems throughout the city to mitigate flood risks. These measures had a positive environmental impact by improving urban living conditions and have been continuously modified and expanded over time to maintain Dublin’s protection.
Dublin Electric Light Company Power Plants
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1880-1882 | Power Plants | Dublin, County Dublin | Not specified | Provided public street lighting and early electricity supply in Dublin |
The Dublin Electric Light Company installed the first public electric street lamp outside the Freeman’s Journal offices and operated three coal-fired generation stations by 1882. These pioneering coal-fired power plants generated electricity primarily for public lighting throughout the city. Despite contributing to air pollution from coal combustion, this development marked the significant beginning of electricity use in Ireland.
Private Act for Peat Development in Leinster
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1901 | Peat Harvesting Infrastructure | Leinster | Not specified | Authorized development of bogs for electric power |
The Private Act for Peat Development in Leinster focused on utilizing Ireland’s abundant peat resources for electricity generation to support early industrial energy needs. This legislative act enabled the systematic extraction and use of peat for power generation throughout the region. While creating potential environmental degradation from peat harvesting, the act paved the way for later peat-fired power stations that would become crucial to Ireland’s energy independence.
Dublin Custom House
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1781-1791 | Government Building | Dublin, County Dublin | Approximately £200,000 (€25 million today) | Served as headquarters for British customs service in Ireland |
The Dublin Custom House was designed by James Gandon and is considered one of Dublin’s most iconic buildings, playing a significant role during the 1916 Easter Rising. Built using Portland stone, the structure features a neoclassical design with an impressive central dome that dominates the riverside. The Custom House remains a prominent architectural landmark in Dublin, symbolizing both British governance of the era and Irish architectural heritage.
Busáras
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1946-1953 | Building | Dublin, County Dublin | Over £1 million (€80 million today) | Main bus terminal for Dublin, symbolizing modernist architecture |
Busáras was designed by Michael Scott, one of Ireland’s most important architects of the 20th century, and remains a significant example of modernist architecture in Ireland. Built with reinforced concrete, the terminal features a large central atrium and distinctive modernist design that was controversial at the time due to its appearance and cost. The building has become an established landmark in Dublin’s urban landscape, serving as the city’s central bus station.
Dublin Airport Terminal
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1937-1940 | Building | Collinstown, County Dublin | Approximately £300,000 (€20 million today) | First major airport terminal in Ireland |
The Dublin Airport Terminal was designed by Desmond FitzGerald and the Office of Public Works as one of the first Art Deco buildings in Ireland. Built in the distinctive Art Deco style, the terminal featured a curved façade and central control tower that marked the beginning of modern air travel infrastructure in the country. The terminal has undergone several expansions and renovations since its opening to accommodate growing passenger numbers.
River Liffey Hydro-Electric Scheme
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1937-1940s | Hydroelectric Infrastructure | Pollaphuca, Golden Falls, Leixlip, County Kildare | Not specified | Provided additional hydroelectric power |
The River Liffey Hydro-Electric Scheme was part of Ireland’s early efforts to diversify energy sources beyond coal and peat through the construction of dams and power stations. Although the project altered local ecosystems due to dam construction, it provided a cleaner source of energy compared to coal and contributed significantly to Ireland’s energy independence. The scheme represented an important step in expanding Ireland’s electricity network during a crucial development period.
Aer Lingus Aviation Service
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1936 | Aviation Infrastructure | Dublin to Bristol | Not specified | Established Ireland’s first owned aviation service |
The Aer Lingus Aviation Service marked the beginning of Ireland’s independent aviation industry and represented a significant step in expanding international connectivity. Operated by Aer Lingus, this pioneering service connected Dublin to Bristol and became a symbol of Irish aviation independence in the post-independence era. This initial route laid the groundwork for Aer Lingus’s expansion into the major international carrier it would later become.
Pigeon House Power Station
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1903-1906 | Power Plant | Ringsend, Dublin | Not specified | Provided electricity to Dublin, supporting growth |
The Pigeon House Power Station was one of the earliest large-scale power stations in Ireland, initially coal-fired before later being acquired by the Electricity Supply Board. The coal-fired generation facility was significant for urban electrification, helping to power Dublin’s industrial and residential expansion during the early 20th century. Despite contributing to air pollution from coal combustion, the station played a crucial role in Dublin’s early electrification and urban development.
RTÉ Campus Headquarters
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1950s-1960s | Building | Donnybrook, Dublin, County Dublin | Not specified | Served as headquarters for Ireland’s national broadcaster |
The RTÉ Campus was designed by Ronnie Tallon of Scott Tallon Walker and reflects Miesian architectural ideals with emphasis on expandability and village-like intimacy. The complex includes various buildings designed over several decades, focusing on modernist principles and adaptability for broadcasting needs. The campus stands as a notable example of modern Irish architectural development with minimal environmental impact beyond typical urban development.
Met Éireann Headquarters
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1975-1979 | Building | Glasnevin, Dublin, County Dublin | Not specified | Serves as headquarters for Ireland’s national meteorological service |
The Met Éireann Headquarters was designed by Liam McCormick as a modernist building known for its integration into the surrounding landscape. The design emphasizes functionality and modernity, typical of McCormick’s distinctive architectural style that became influential in Irish public buildings. With minimal environmental impact beyond standard urban development, the building represents an important example of Ireland’s modern architectural development in the late 20th century.
Limerick Tunnel
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1998-2001 | Tunnel | Limerick City, County Limerick | €350 million (€550 million today) | Reduced traffic congestion and improved road safety |
The Limerick Tunnel was one of the largest road infrastructure projects in Ireland at its time, utilizing a Public-Private Partnership model to complete the ambitious 675-meter passage. The tunnel forms part of the N7 Limerick Tunnel PPP project which included upgrading the N7 road to improve regional connectivity. Though requiring careful management of nearby waterways, the underground nature of the project minimized environmental disruption while significantly reducing travel times.
N1/M1 Dundalk Western Bypass
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 2000-2006 | Motorway Bypass | Dundalk, County Louth | Approximately €100 million (€150 million today) | Improved traffic flow and reduced congestion in Dundalk |
The N1/M1 Dundalk Western Bypass was part of a broader effort to upgrade Ireland’s national road network, enhancing connectivity between Dublin and Northern Ireland. The project involved constructing a high-quality dual carriageway around Dundalk, improving road safety and reducing travel times for commuters and freight. Careful planning was required to minimize environmental disruption, including impacts on local wildlife habitats.
Poulaphouca Reservoir
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1937-1947 | Dam and Reservoir | Blessington, County Wicklow | Approximately £1 million (€1.3 million today) | Water supply for Dublin and surrounding areas |
Poulaphouca Reservoir stands as one of the largest man-made lakes in Ireland, constructed during World War II to supply water to Dublin via a 45 km aqueduct. The reservoir was created by building a dam across the River Liffey, forming a large lake that continues to serve Dublin’s water needs. While the project caused significant alteration of the local ecosystem, it was essential for Dublin’s water supply and was completed rapidly due to wartime necessities.
Lough Ree Power Station
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1950-1954 | Hydroelectric Power Station | Lanesborough, County Longford | Approximately £2.5 million (€3.2 million today) | Electricity generation for the national grid |
The Lough Ree Power Station was part of the Shannon Hydroelectric Scheme, utilizing the flow of the River Shannon to generate electricity for Ireland’s growing power needs. The station harnessed the natural water flow to contribute to Ireland’s national power grid during a crucial period of development. With relatively minimal environmental impact due to its hydroelectric nature, the project represented part of a broader effort to develop Ireland’s renewable hydroelectric resources.
Turlough Hill Pumped Hydroelectric Power Station
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1968-1974 | Hydroelectric Power Station | Turlough Hill, County Wicklow | Approximately £30 million (€200 million today) | Providing peaking power and stabilizing the grid |
Turlough Hill is Ireland’s only pumped hydroelectric power station, capable of generating 292 MW of electricity to help stabilize the grid during peak demand periods. The station uses two large reservoirs—one at the top of Turlough Hill and another at the bottom—to store energy by pumping water uphill during off-peak hours and releasing it to generate electricity when needed. With minimal environmental impact due to its closed-loop system, the facility plays a crucial role in balancing Ireland’s electricity supply.
Bellacorrick Wind Farm
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1991-1992 | Wind Farm | Bellacorrick, County Mayo | Approximately IR£10 million (€12.7 million today) | Pioneering commercial wind power in Ireland |
Bellacorrick was Ireland’s first commercial wind farm, marking the beginning of wind power as a significant renewable energy source in the country under the leadership of Eddie O’Connor, then CEO of Bord na Móna. The wind farm was constructed on a cutaway peat bog, utilizing existing infrastructure while demonstrating the potential for wind energy development. This pioneering project had a positive environmental impact by contributing to renewable energy production and set the stage for the rapid expansion of wind energy throughout Ireland.
Cork Land Use and Transportation Study (LUTS)
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1970s-Late 1970s | Urban Planning | Cork City, County Cork | Not specified | Strategic expansion and containment of urban sprawl |
The Cork Land Use and Transportation Study focused on integrating land use and transportation planning as an early example of strategic spatial planning in Ireland. The study aimed to manage growth and prevent uncontrolled urban expansion through comprehensive planning that aligned transportation infrastructure with development goals. This initiative helped manage urban sprawl and potentially reduced environmental degradation while influencing subsequent urban planning strategies throughout Ireland.
Urban Renewal Scheme
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1986-2006 | Urban Renewal | Multiple urban areas across Ireland | Significant fiscal incentives (exact cost not specified) | Revitalization of declining urban districts |
The Urban Renewal Scheme initially focused on inner city areas before expanding to suburbs and smaller towns, offering tax reliefs for property development in designated areas to stimulate investment. While the scheme successfully revitalized certain areas, it was criticized for enabling tax avoidance and contributing to the housing bubble that later affected Ireland’s economy. The scheme’s impact was mixed, with both positive regeneration outcomes and negative economic consequences before its abolition in 2006.
Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 2005-2012 | Building | Antrim, Northern Ireland | €18.5 million | Enhance visitor experience and protect the natural environment |
The Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre features a subterranean design to minimize visual impact, with a green roof and stone columns mimicking the area’s famous basalt formations. Designed by heneghan peng architects, the centre is built into the landscape with sustainable features that complement rather than compete with the natural wonder. The architecturally acclaimed facility was nominated for the prestigious Stirling Prize in 2013 for its sensitive approach to a World Heritage Site.
Bord Gáis Energy Theatre
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 2007-2010 | Building | Dublin, County Dublin | €80 million | Provide a major performing arts venue and contribute to urban regeneration |
The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre is a 2,000-seat performance venue that forms part of a larger development including office and retail space in Dublin’s docklands. Designed by Studio Libeskind, the theatre features a distinctive glazed façade that has become a landmark in the city’s cultural landscape. The development enhanced the urban environment with green spaces and energy-efficient design as part of the broader Grand Canal Harbour revitalization project.
Capital Dock Development
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 2015-2018 | Urban Development | Dublin, County Dublin | €150 million | Mixed-use development enhancing Dublin’s docklands area |
The Capital Dock Development includes residential, office, and retail spaces with a focus on sustainability and urban integration. The project features a 23-story residential tower—one of the tallest in Dublin—and extensive public spaces that connect to the surrounding neighborhood. Incorporating green roofs and energy-efficient systems, this major development contributes significantly to the ongoing revitalization of Dublin’s docklands area as a modern urban center.
M7 Portlaoise to Cullahill/Castletown Motorway
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 2004-2010 | Motorway | Laois and Kilkenny | €550 million (€750 million today) | Improved connectivity between Dublin and Limerick |
The M7 motorway project was part of the major upgrade of Ireland’s national road network, utilizing a Public-Private Partnership model to deliver crucial infrastructure. The project involved constructing a dual carriageway motorway that significantly reduced congestion and travel times on one of Ireland’s busiest routes. With minimal environmental disruption due to careful planning, the motorway enhanced regional development by improving transportation links between major urban centers.
Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 2023-2026 | Railway Infrastructure | Cork City and surrounding areas, County Cork | €500 million – €1 billion | Enhanced rail capacity and electrification for commuter services |
The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme includes double-tracking from Glounthaune to Midleton and an additional platform at Kent Station to facilitate future electrification. This comprehensive project aims to increase rail capacity, reduce journey times, and improve service reliability throughout the region. The initiative is expected to reduce carbon emissions by promoting public transport use, supporting Cork’s development as a sustainable transportation hub.
Lower Lee (Cork City) Flood Relief Scheme
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 2027-2030 | Flood Control Infrastructure | Cork City, County Cork | €100m – €200m | Protecting over 2,100 properties from tidal and river flooding |
The Lower Lee Flood Relief Scheme features adaptable design to address future climate change scenarios while incorporating new river walkways and historic quay wall repairs. The comprehensive flood defenses along the River Lee will enhance public realm spaces throughout Cork City. Still in the planning phase and subject to regulatory approvals, the scheme aims to enhance biodiversity and environmental resilience while safeguarding urban areas.
Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| Ongoing-2027 (est.) | Water Supply Infrastructure | Parteen Basin, County Tipperary to Peamount, County Dublin | Not specified | Providing a new source of drinking water for the region |
The Water Supply Project includes a 172km pipeline to support regional development and climate resilience across eastern and midland Ireland. The system will abstract raw water from the Lower River Shannon, treat it at Birdhill, and distribute it to the Greater Dublin Area. This major infrastructure initiative diversifies water sources, reducing reliance on unsustainable abstractions while supporting up to 50% of Ireland’s population in the medium to long term.
Greenlink Interconnector
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 2019-2024 | Energy Infrastructure | Wexford, County Wexford, and Pembrokeshire, Wales | €500 million | Enhancing electricity interconnection between Ireland and the UK |
The Greenlink Interconnector is the first new power connection between Ireland and the UK in over 20 years, providing a 500 MW capacity link between the two countries. The completed project involved laying a 200 km subsea cable and constructing converter stations on both sides of the Irish Sea. With minimal environmental disruption due to subsea cable placement, the interconnector facilitates electricity exchange between the countries, enhancing grid stability and supporting renewable energy integration.
Green Atlantic at Moneypoint
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 2023-2030 (est.) | Renewable Energy Infrastructure | Moneypoint, County Clare | Estimated €10 billion | Developing floating offshore wind farm and green hydrogen production |
Green Atlantic at Moneypoint includes a 1,400 MW floating offshore wind farm—one of the largest in Europe—alongside a green hydrogen production facility. The ambitious project involves constructing advanced floating wind infrastructure integrated with hydrogen production to support Ireland’s energy transition. Expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions by replacing fossil fuels, the initiative aims to position Ireland as a net exporter of electricity and hydrogen by leveraging its substantial offshore wind resources.
Dublin Docklands Regeneration
| Construction Period | Project Type | Location | Total Cost (GBP) | Primary Impact |
| 1997-Ongoing | Urban Regeneration | Dublin, County Dublin | Multi-billion Euro investment over several decades | Transformed neglected area into vibrant commercial and residential hub |
The Dublin Docklands Regeneration incorporated significant social housing alongside commercial development, revitalizing the area with new businesses and cultural amenities. The long-term project involved creating the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), new offices, residential units, and cultural venues throughout the former port district. This ongoing transformation has enhanced the urban environment with green spaces and reduced pollution through modern infrastructure, establishing a model for urban regeneration in Ireland.
Ireland’s Construction Heritage
Ireland’s construction heritage ranges from 18th century Georgian architecture to today’s renewable energy installations, illustrating the nation’s journey through independence, economic challenges, and emergence as a modern European economy. Projects like St. Mary’s Cathedral and Green Atlantic at Moneypoint are more than structures—they embody Irish resilience and creativity.
Irish construction projects have uniquely adapted to geographical, economic, and political circumstances. Early works established civic and religious identity, mid-century developments built national infrastructure, and recent projects embrace sustainable technologies and urban renewal.
As Ireland faces climate change, housing needs, and economic transformation, these historical achievements provide valuable context. The innovative spirit that created the world’s first dedicated commuter railway now drives ambitious projects like the Greenlink Interconnector and Cork’s sustainable transportation development. Throughout each era, Ireland’s construction industry has turned limitations into opportunities while creating infrastructure that shapes the nation’s identity.
