The cost of restoring Cork City's fireman’s rest structure has soared to €400,000 as it has emerged a Government audit report found the project is not a good use of the council’s limited resources. The controversial restoration project made headlines last year when initial costs of €326,000 were announced. The structure, made from prefabricated cast- and wrought-iron panels was commissioned by the then Cork Corporation in 1892 and was situated on Patrick Street. A subsequent report in 2022 by the same consultants noted the hut had not been stored appropriately, resulting in further deterioration. Valerie O’Sullivan, chief executive of Cork City Council, said: “The feedback from the local government auditor is noted and will inform future initiatives."

Source: Irish Examiner April 09, 2026 06:46 UTC