Behind-the-scenes look shows major progress on Iveagh Markets restoration

Conservation teams are making significant progress on the €9.5 million restoration of Dublin's historic Iveagh Markets, preserving the 120-year-old Liberties landmark for future generations

A behind-the-scenes look at the revival of the Iveagh Markets shows a significant process being made.

The long-awaited restoration of the 120-year-old market commenced last December after €9.5 million was allocated by the government for conservation works through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund. The ambition is to restore an essential aspect of Dublin's story and bring the unique character of this Liberties landmark back to life.

The Iveagh Markets on Francis Street first opened in 1906 and remained active until the 1990s. While the vacant site had fallen into disrepair, since early summer, specialist conservation teams have been carrying out extensive work within both the Wet Market and Dry Market halls.

While the exterior of the Iveagh Markets on Francis Street may appear unchanged, large scaffold structures have been erected throughout the building to allow safe access to the historic steel framework and roof structures.

One of the most important stages of the project is the careful removal of historic lead-based paint from the steelwork inside. Although this paint was commonly used throughout the twentieth century, it is now recognised as hazardous and must be removed under strict safety controls.

The Wet Market steel structure has now been fully cleaned, corrosion has been removed, and the metalwork has been prepared for a new protective finish. Similar work is continuing within the larger Dry Market, where conservation teams are progressing section by section.

View 4 Images Conservation works at the Iveagh Markets have restored the market's historic steel roof structure and supporting framework. (Image: Dublin City Council)

Dublin City Council has outlined fascinating details about the material and companies involved in constructing the markets over a century ago. They said restoration works have revealed names stamped into the structure showing manufacturers from Scotland, England and Ireland.

Among the identified suppliers are Glengarnock Steelworks, Glasgow Clydebridge Steelworks, Lilleshall Iron & Steel Company, along with Irish firms including Tonge & Taggart and South Dublin Ironworks. The building was designed and built by Frederick G. Hicks. Construction started in 1902 and the market was opened in June 1906.

View 4 Images Before-and-after view showing the transformation of a historic cast-iron support following conservation treatment at the Iveagh Markets (Image: Dublin City Council)

But by the 1980s the market had become rundown and although the council announced a £1.25 million refurbishment plan in 1993, it was later determined that this sum was inadequate and more funds would be needed. Plans stopped and started over the years and various initiatives, such as turning the space into a music venue, hotel, and a new food market, fell through.

With conservation work on the Wet Market steel structure now complete, attention is turning to the roof. The project team aims to retain and reuse as much of the existing Westmorland Green slate as possible while ensuring the building is fully weatherproof for future generations.

Where feasible, original timber roof elements will be repaired and retained, while a new lightweight glazing system will improve safety and performance in line with modern standards. These conservation works represent another important milestone in the ongoing revival of the Iveagh Markets, helping to preserve one of Dublin's most distinctive historic landmarks for the future.

View 4 Images Restored steel trusses support the glazed roof at the heart of the Iveagh Markets (Image: Dublin City Council)

Former Lord Mayor Ray McAdam welcomed the works last year, stating: “The Iveagh Markets are not just a building, they are a cornerstone of Dublin’s story and a symbol of the resilience and character of The Liberties .”

“For generations, this place has stood at the heart of a community defined by its spirit, its craft, and its sense of belonging. Beginning these emergency works marks an essential and long-awaited step towards securing the Markets’ future.”

“As a city, we are determined to protect our architectural heritage, honour the legacy of those who shaped it, and ensure that this historic landmark can once again play a meaningful role in the life of Dublin.”

This content is funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

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