Restoration works to be begin on historic structure at Plunkett Station

Confirmation has been received from Irish Rail that restoration works are to begin on the historic signal cabin at Waterford Plunkett Station.

Irish Rail has confirmed that a team is being sent to the station to carry out repairs to the fabric of the cabin, clean leaking guttering and take samples from the existing paintwork to check for the presence of lead.

The work is being carried out in preparation for more extensive remediation works at a later stage.

The signal cabin has been part of Plunkett Station for almost a century and spans the railway lines entering the station.

It is listed as a 'protected structure', and The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage recognises it for its architectural, historical, social and technical importance.

Local Independent councillor Donal Barry, welcomed the news from Irish Rail, saying that the cabin is one of the most distinctive features of Plunkett Station and needs to be looked after properly.

Cllr Barry confirmed that the remediation works had originally been planned for 2026, but were postponed after the necessary funding was not made available. 

The works have now been included in Irish Rail's 2027 work plan, although their completion remains subject to funding being made available.

Cllr. Barry said that securing that funding must now be the priority. 

“We've already lost a year. What we need now is a clear timetable and a commitment that the money will be made available so the job can be completed" he said.

Cllr. Barry has also asked that consideration be given to returning the cabin to its traditional CIE colour scheme as part of the eventual restoration. 

“Anyone who looks at the old photographs can see what a feature this building once was. I'd like to see it properly restored and painted in its traditional CIE colours. 

“With all the investment taking place around the North Quays and the railway station, this is the right time to look after what we already have as well."

(Article funded by the Local Democracy Scheme)