The new look planned for Crumlin Road jail
By Lisa Smyth
January 29, 2007
This is an artist’s impression of the infamous Crumlin Road jail returned to its original appearance following a planned million pound facelift.
The graphic was released today as Social Development Minister David Hanson announced the massive cash investment as part of a major programme of repair and restoration to the jail.
In ensuring that the facade of the jail is restored to its original 1845 glory, extensive renovations will be carried out and the work is scheduled to be completed by the end of June.
The programme of repairs and restoration at the Grade A listed building will open up the front of the jail with removal of all extraneous security structures, restoration of the existing cast iron railings, repairs to damaged masonry, the use of appropriate lighting and a range of hard and soft landscaping.
The security walls and fencing that have obscured the frontage of the jail for a number of decades will be removed and the railings and main gates repaired and restored.
The use of sandstone and bespoke castings for the railings will help achieve a sympathetic restoration.
Commenting on the start of the works, Mr Hanson said: “This major programme of works at the jail should significantly enhance the physical appearance of the facade and help to transform the overall look of the frontage of what is a magnificent Grade A listed building.
“This investment will play an important role in increasing confidence within the community and business sector in the long term regeneration potential of this area.
“It is an exciting signal of the gathering momentum in the overall redevelopment of the jail and Girdwood site.”
Other repairs to the jail, including the removal of asbestos and a programme of weatherproofing and health and safety improvements to the wings of the jail, are progressing in tandem.
The total cost of the work is expected to be almost £1m and comes after Mr Hanson set up a local advisory panel to make recommendations to him on a masterplan.
'So venceremos, beidh bua againn eigin lá eigin. Sealadaigh abú.'
--Bobby Sands