A tower located at County Clare's iconic Cliffs of Moher is to be restored.

The landmark O'Brien's Tower, which boasts views of Clare, the Kerry mountains, Galway Bay and the Aran Islands, will undergo works to remove and replace its existing stair enclosure, staircases and windows.

Further works include the application of a lime wet dash externally as well as the repair of the internal face of the stone fabric of the tower.

Mid West Lime was appointed to deliver restoration works on the 184-year-old structure.

The works will commence in February and are scheduled for completion in early May.

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When complete, the project will preserve the historic building, and ensure safe and secure access for the public.

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council, commented: "I am delighted to be in a position to sign the contract for restoration works to commence immediately on O'Brien's Tower. O'Brien's Tower is a vital part of our local heritage and this restoration work will ensure the conservation of this protected structure which forms part of the draw for visitors from all over the world to the Cliffs of Moher."

Donnacha Lynch, Acting Director of the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, added: "The tower suffers from water ingress as a consequence of its very exposed location. Due to concern for the long term damage and also visitor safety, the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience is carrying out repairs and interventions. We are applying a lime render to the exterior in an effort to stop water penetrating through the wall. The tower was most likely rendered when it was built almost two centuries ago."

Full drawings and a report are available to view at the Planning Office, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co Clare, and at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre.

(CM/MH)