State should buy Sandymount’s iconic Martello Tower – Geoghegan

The Office of Public Works (OPW) should acquire Sandymount’s iconic Martello Tower, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy James Geoghegan said, “I have written to the Minister with responsibility for the Office of Public Works requesting that he consider purchasing this landmark and bringing it into public use as a cultural or heritage space”

“The tower went to market last week for €1.5 million. There is precedent for the State buying these historic buildings and bringing them into public use.”

Up to 50 Martello Towers were built around Ireland’s coastline by the British in the early 19^th century amid fears of a invasion by Napoleon’s France. Sandymount tower was built in 1804 along with 28 others dotted around Dublin Bay.

Deputy Geoghegan highlighted the findings of a 2008 study commissioned by Fingal County Council and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, which documented the significance of Dublin Bay’s Martello Towers.

“The study noted that Dublin Bay’s Martello Towers are the most complete collection in the world. While some have fallen into ruin, many have been adapted successfully for public use.”

Examples include:

• The James Joyce Tower and Museum in Sandycove
• The Irish Genealogical Society archive at Seapoint
• The communications heritage centre at Howth

“While there are cases of these towers coming into private ownership, this tends to require significant alterations to the character of the building”.

Deputy Geoghegan said he believes it would be a real loss for Sandymount and for the heritage of the Dublin Bay area if this tower were to be altered beyond recognition.

“This is a rare chance to preserve an iconic landmark for future generations. I am asking the Minister to act quickly and ensure this important part of our coastal heritage remains in public hands.”