The Office of Public Works (OPW) has welcomed the re-opening of the historic Magazine Fort, Dublin after completion of the first phase of conservation and stabilisation works. Set in the Phoenix Park, the Magazine Fort is one of Dublin’s most significant heritage landmarks.

Originally built in the 18^th century as a military storage facility for gunpowder, it later played a role in the events of the Easter Rising in 1916 and was used by the Irish Army before transferring to the OPW in 1988. The first phase of works involved extensive repair and conservation works of the fort’s rampart walls, cavaliers, gunpowder store buildings, the 1921 Bakery building and reinstated the Duke of Dorset Gateway. The project team worked to balance the needs of conservation with the practical requirements of a modern public heritage site.

Speaking at the event Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers said “I am delighted to mark the reopening of the Magazine Fort following the successful completion of this important phase of conservation works by the OPW. This investment demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to conserving and enhancing our built heritage while making it more accessible to the public.

The Magazine Fort Stabilisation and Conservation Works project was delivered by Kelbuild Ltd for the OPW.

The project has already received major recognition as the recipient of the Irish Construction Excellence Awards 2026 (ICE Awards) in the Heritage/Conservation category and RIAI Awards 2026 (Conservation category).

The nearby commemorative bridge which is under construction by the OPW will link the Fort with the Irish National War Memorial Gardens and create an iconic focal point for locals and tourists alike to take in the views of the River Liffey, the Salmon Weir, the boat clubs, Fort, – providing not only a piece of transport infrastructure, but an architectural and urban amenity space. These two capital development projects will boost tourism in this area while also being a driving force for community gain.”

Speaking at the opening, Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, said: “The Magazine Fort is one of OPW’s most iconic historical sites and its careful preservation is an important part of our shared heritage. The ongoing conservation works to this site ensures that this landmark is protected, enhances public understanding of its history and ensures that it remains protected for future generations to appreciate and enjoy. I am delighted to be here today for the reopening of the Magazine Fort.”

The works were completed as part of a phased reopening of the site to the public. Future conservation work include making the Francis Johnston buildings accessible to visitors and enhancing the site’s overall visitor experience.

The project is funded under the National Development Plan, with Government investment to date of €5.7 million (including VAT).

The Magazine Fort is now open for public guided tours through the OPW Phoenix Park Visitor Centre.

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