The team behind the Arklow Maritime Museum received an early gift ahead of the museum’s 50th anniversary next year. Wicklow County Council has secured a 25-year lease for the museum’s home at the Bridgewater Shopping Centre.
The museum, recently renamed the Arklow Heritage Museum, was originally established in 1976 at the old technical school on St Mary’s Road. In 2009, it moved to a unit in the Bridgewater Shopping Centre, which was later purchased by Wicklow County Council.
Jim Rees, a local historian and long-time supporter of the museum, expressed relief and happiness about the lease. “It’s great now we know exactly where we stand,” he said. “We have been pushing for this for a while. Although we always knew there was a lease, this confirms we have a home for the next 25 years.”
Rees added that the confirmation means everything is now legally secure and stable. He thanked those who helped make this possible, including Leonora Earls and Annalise Ryan of Wicklow County Council, the late Michael Allen, Councillor Pat Fitzgerald, and TD Brian Brennan.
“It feels like an early birthday present since the museum will turn 50 next year,” Rees said. He also mentioned plans to celebrate alongside the 200th anniversary of the Arklow Lifeboat Station. “Now we can plan for the long term, knowing we have a secure future.”
Councillor Fitzgerald praised the museum staff, Wicklow County Council, and Arklow Municipal District workers for their efforts. He said the museum’s location is busy and important, and the lease ensures the museum is safe for the future. He also thanked Leonora Earls for her support.
“I’m delighted with the museum’s progress over the years,” Fitzgerald said. “This lease is good news for Arklow. The museum is a special part of the town.”
TD Brian Brennan congratulated everyone involved in securing the lease and highlighted the museum’s role in the community. “This will allow them to continue to be an important part of our town,” he said. Brennan emphasized the need to support similar projects that boost tourism in Arklow.
He praised council officials, especially Leonora Earls and Alvina Brehony, as well as local representatives who have supported the museum over time. “I have visited with my family many times,” Brennan said. “The memorabilia and stories show Arklow’s proud past. But equally important are the committee members and those working for the museum’s future. They deserve recognition.”
