Sale of Portlaw's historic Cotton Mill site is "massive" for Waterford

The former Cotton Mill and Tannery site in Portlaw, Co Waterford has been sold.

It's believed, by the Managing Director of Brophy Cusack , Jeffrey Brophy, that the site in tandem with the adjacent Mayfield House, could be developed into a luxurious hotel.

The Mayfield House site sits on approximately six acres of land, while the Tannery has approximately 20 acres.

The sale of the Tannery site had been in progress for the last six months, however it was finalised over the last few days.

Speaking to the Waterford News & Star, Jeffrey Brophy expressed excitement around the potential opportunities the sale will mean for "not only the village of Portlaw, but for County Waterford as a whole."

"This historic property holds a special place in the heart of Ireland's industrial heritage," said Mr Brophy.

"Originally the Cotton Mill was established in the early 1800s by the Malcolmson Brothers and in 1935, Irish Tanners was established where it stood as a testament to Ireland's pursuit of economic self-sufficiency during the 1930s. Serving as one of the largest sole leather producing factories in the country, it provided employment opportunities and prosperity to the local community," he said.

"Throughout its rich history, the Cotton Mill witnessed the growth of industry in Ireland, with additional tanneries opening in Dungarvan, Gorey, and Carrick-on-Suir. Its substantial concrete building, erected in 1945, stands as a reminder of the ingenuity and resilience of generations past," he added.

"As we move forward, we're excited to see the next chapter unfold for this historic site"

In the 1930s, a time when Ireland was striving for economic self-sufficiency, the tannery was a beacon of hope and in 1945 the substantial concrete building was erected on the site.