The iconic Blackrock Diving Tower is set to have long-awaited maintenance and rehabilitation works carried out within a year.
A public consultation meeting will be held next Wednesday night in the Salthill Hotel to bring the project to the attention of local residents and those interested in the preservation of the hugely popular facility.
Constructed over 60 years ago, the condition of the landmark structure has become an eyesore due to adverse weather conditions and general wear and tear.
A spokesperson for Galway City Council pointed out that while the tower is not currently in a dangerous state of repair, works need to be carried out to ensure its protection for future generation’s enjoyment.
“The works are not in any way major in terms of appearance – they are mainly structural, to reinforce the tower and repair wear and tear – it’s exposed to all weather,” he said.
The works proposed to be carried out include the provision of new, and the replacement of existing handrails, the
replacement of damaged stairs and deck surfaces, the treatment of steel and reinforcement of the concrete structure.
The removal of paint and the provision of signage will also be included in the revamp. Also proposed is the inclusion of a new concrete deck and a removable lifeguard shelter to be situated at the tower during the summer months.
Engineering firm Cronin Millar will be available at the consultation meeting to take questions from members of the public.
The proposals were brought before the Environment, Recreation and Amenity Strategic Policy Committee in late February and it is hoped that following the public consultation, permission will be granted to complete the works.
The project will then be put out to tender in the summer and the city council anticipates that the works will be completed in 2017, subject to budget.
The works will cost an estimated €100,000 to carry out and will take approximately three months to complete.
“It will almost certainly lead to a closure of the tower but it will not be done in high-summer, in peak diving season.
“It is necessary work; you don’t want to mess around with it because it is iconic – the look of the tower won’t change,” he said.
The meeting will take place at 7pm on Wednesday (March 30) and all interested parties are invited to attend.
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