Limerick’s Cleeves Riverside Quarter Development Begins First Phase

Phase one of the Cleeves Riverside Quarter regeneration project has officially commenced in Limerick. Contractors from Sisk, a well-known construction company, are on site preparing for extensive works on the former Flaxmill building, which is part of a larger initiative valued at over €400 million. This redevelopment aims to transform the 10-acre site into a vibrant urban neighbourhood.

Transforming Historical Structures

The Flaxmill, a structure with a rich history dating back to 1853, will undergo significant renovations over the next 15 months. The first phase includes stabilisation and repair efforts focused on the roof and upper floors. Given the building’s age and historical significance, these repairs will adhere to conservation guidelines, ensuring that its architectural integrity is maintained. Sisk has assembled a specialised team, including stonemasons, timber experts, and ironwork professionals, to carry out this delicate work.

Kieran O’Donnell, Minister of State for Older People and Housing, emphasised the importance of these initial steps, stating, “The works to the Flaxmill as a protected structure are a crucial first step in unlocking the full potential of the site.” This sentiment was echoed by John Moran, Mayor of Limerick, who highlighted the site’s potential to provide much-needed housing and enhance the city’s public realm.

A Vision for the Future

The Cleeves Riverside Quarter development will ultimately accommodate up to 1,000 residents. Plans include the construction of 234 high-quality homes and 270 purpose-built student rooms, alongside a crèche, commercial space, and nearly two acres of public areas featuring parks, plazas, and gardens.

James Collins, chairman of Limerick Twenty Thirty, noted the significance of the Flaxmill to the city’s industrial heritage. “These carefully planned stabilisation and repair works ensure it will be protected, respected, and repurposed as part of a vibrant new city quarter,” he said.

In November, Limerick Twenty Thirty submitted a planning application for phase two of the project, which represents the first major building phase. Funding support for phase one is provided by the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, showcasing a commitment to revitalising the area.

The Cleeves Riverside Quarter is poised to become a significant addition to Limerick, blending historical preservation with modern urban living. As work progresses, it promises to transform not only the Flaxmill itself but the surrounding community, strengthening Limerick’s city centre for years to come.