SETU development on former Waterford Crystal site advances
Morgan Stanley, ISIF, Peter McLoughlin, SETU, Noel Frisby Snr, Frisby, Sarah Hickey, ISIF, and Noel Frisby Jnr at the launch of Glassworks Building One in June. Photo: Patrick Browne
Funding for SETU development on the former Waterford Crystal manufacturing site in Kilbarry has advanced to the next stage following approval from Minister for Higher Education, James Lawless TD.
The development is expected to total €130 million and eventually facilitate 6,000 students. The project will be advanced under the Department of Higher Education’s Technological Sector Strategic Projects Fund.
“This project, as part of the creation of a University and Enterprise Quarter, will invest tens of millions of euros to revitalise this iconic site, enabling the co-location of teaching, research, innovation and enterprise, while establishing a new focal point for the city of Waterford,” Minister Lawless said at the former glassworks site.
Planning permission for a 582-student bed development on adjacent lands has previously been approved.
“I’m delighted to see this major investment in Waterford and the wider South East region,” said Minister for Mental Health and Government Chief Whip Mary Butler TD.
“The development of the University and Enterprise Quarter will transform the Glassworks site into a hub of education, research, and enterprise, creating opportunities that will benefit our community for generations to come.
“I warmly welcome Minister Lawless to Waterford for today’s announcement and thank him for his commitment to delivering this ambitious vision for the South East.”
The first planned development on the site will be a €43 million commercial building co-developed by the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) and Waterford-based developers Frisby.
A further €12 million has been allocated to SETU for the Technological Enhancement Fund.
The funding is designed to advance digital transformation and business intelligence, support student engagement, increase professional development opportunities, and support the attainment of Climate Action targets.
