The Tánaiste has pledged ongoing Government support for the continued development of Camden Fort Meagher, a landmark Cork Harbour fort, as a key regional tourist attraction.
Speaking at the official opening of a new exhibition space at the fort – widely recognized as one of the world’s finest examples of a classical coastal artillery fort and an award-winning visitor site – Simon Harris lauded the extensive restoration work undertaken since community volunteers reclaimed it in 2010. This transformation involved significant collaboration between the community, Cork County Council, and the government.
During his visit to the fort in Crosshaven on Friday, Mr. Harris officially opened the newly restored casemate building, featuring striking barrel-vaulted roofs and display rooms. He commended the dedication of all those involved in the restoration and regeneration efforts over the years.
“Camden Fort Meagher is a place of national historical significance and a powerful symbol of Ireland’s military and maritime heritage,” he stated.
“It has been transformed from a derelict stronghold to a fantastic visitor experience.”
“I know Cork County Council is working on plans to further develop it, and we in government will continue to partner together with all those involved to further develop the facility.”
Fortifications were initially constructed on the site around 1550, with subsequent upgrades in the late 1700s and 1800s to fortify the naval defense of Cork Harbour. Approximately two-thirds of the structure are concealed underground, forming a complex network of tunnels and chambers.
The fort was returned to state ownership in 1938 and remained a military installation until its transfer to the county council in 1989.
By 2010, the fort was overgrown until local community volunteers initiated its reclamation and restoration, gradually transforming it as funding became available.
The fort was closed for significant restoration during 2023 and 2024, with a primary focus on protecting and conserving the casemate building, which houses the fort’s main tourist exhibitions.
This restoration work was made possible through substantial investment from Cork County Council, supported by government funding via the Historic Structures Fund and Community Monuments Fund.
Last October, the council and Costello Masonry Conservation Ltd. were awarded first prize at the Irish Construction Excellence Awards for their specialist work on the fort.
The casemate block is now fully operational with new exhibitions detailing the fort’s history, its reclamation, and its restoration.
Mr. Harris emphasized that the fort’s restoration is a testament to the positive outcomes achievable through collaboration between local communities and government.
Cllr. Ben Dalton O’Sullivan, standing in for the county mayor, highlighted the immense historical and architectural significance of the entire fort.
“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. The fort’s military and more recent history is told through these new displays and I hope they will inform and entertain,” he said.
Minister of State Jerry Buttimer hailed the fort project as a prime example of community spirit and strategic investment working synergistically.
“The fort not only tells the story of our nation’s past, but also embodies the power of local volunteers and the value of community-led regeneration,” he commented.
Moira Murrell, the council’s chief executive, acknowledged the ambitious plans for the fort, emphasizing the importance of state funding to facilitate the delivery of large-scale projects.
“The fort has the potential to be a significant economic driver for Crosshaven and the wider harbour area,” she stated.
“We look forward to working with both Fáilte Ireland and government departments to identify funding opportunities to allow Camden Fort Meagher and the wider community to reach its full economic and tourism potential.”
Camden Fort Meagher is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday, and on Bank Holiday Mondays between April and October. It will operate seven days a week during July and August.
Visit www.corkcoco.ie for more information.
