Brief:
The site is located in a candidate Special Area of Conservation, next to estuary of the Caragh River. The client’s objective was to construct changing rooms and associated facilities for walkers on the Kerry Way, one of Ireland’s longest signposted walking trails. The building was also to be used in conjunction with the adjoining sports field.
Response:
The design of the building is modest, with a simple long form. The unifying roof provides outdoor sheltered spaces between rooms. The clerestory windows in line with roof give privacy to the changing rooms.
A Natura Impact Statement was required to assess the impact of the construction on the habitats of the Lesser Horseshoe Bat and the Freshwater Pearl Mussel in the adjacent woodland and Caragh River respectively. Great precaution was taken to mitigate the effects of the construction and nesting site for the Lesser Horseshoe Bat was incorporated into the attic space of the building.
The building was funded under the Rural Development Programme (2007-2013) with part funding from the community group. It was necessary to value engineer the project throughout the building process to ensure the client received highest quality building for their set budget. The project was delivered on budget.
Related Projects – Milltown Community Centre, Barraduff Community Centre & Field, The Old Barracks Interpretive Centre
