Funding has been awarded for repairs to historic buildings on Dominick Street which house Áras na nGael and Galway Arts Centre.
A total of €170,000 has been awarded under the Historic Structures Fund 2026 for roof works on No.45 and No.47 Dominick Street Lower.
Michael Scott, Executive Architectural Conservation Officer, Galway City Council commented that the buildings are a good example of ‘Galway Georgian’ architecture.
This is characterised by “robust form, refined detailing, simple composition, a dignified presence to the street, and constructed in limestone, a material synonymous with the built heritage of the city since the medieval period.”
The two buildings have a storied history, with connections to the Persse family and Lady Gregory. They have also been used as a technical school and the offices of the then Galway City Borough Council prior to their current function.
“With a combined presence of over 125 years, Áras na Gael and Galway Arts Centre have in their respective ways worked to promote and enhance the value, understanding and enjoyment of the arts, culture, and language in the city,” Michael Scott added.
Following completion of Conservation Management Plans (CMP) for both buildings in 2025-2026, the need for a shared approach to the roof was identified in their Conservation Management Plans.
Megs Morley, Artistic Director, Galway Arts Centre said, “This Historic Structures Fund award is hugely significant for Galway Arts Centre and for the wider cultural life of the city.”
“As one of Galway’s most important cultural organisations, and as custodians of a historic building at the heart of the city, this investment will allow us to undertake essential works that protect both the fabric of the building and the vital artistic activity that takes place within it.”
“No. 47 Dominick Street has been home to generations of creativity, dialogue and cultural exchange, and this support helps ensure it can continue to serve artists, audiences and communities long into the future.”
“We are proud to steward this important part of the city’s heritage as a living space for contemporary culture, and are deeply grateful for this support.”
Mícheál Mac Aoidh, Manager of Áras na nGael commented, “Gael Forbairt na Gaillimhe, the operators of Áras na nGael, are delighted to receive news of the grant from the Historic Structures Fund.”
“Áras na nGael is a distinguished historical landmark in Galway city, providing resources, services and cultural activities to a thriving, vibrant and inclusive Irish language community in Galway city.”
“It is a building where Irish is not only learned but lived and celebrated. The building itself is central to the organisations identity and success, symbolizing its enduring commitment to the Irish language and culture. It is a space where Irish is not only learned, but lived.”
