Following the completion of extensive refurbishment works carried out by numerous contractors, J Block at Garda Headquarters in Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, has officially reopened.

The project involved the full refurbishment of a 1,770 sq.m, two-storey, historic building and Protected Structure, as offices to accommodate a highly specialist unit within An Garda Síochána.

This project involved complex refurbishment works in a live, operational policing environment, requiring careful phasing and constant coordination to ensure the safety of Garda staff, subcontractors and building occupants.

Key elements of the refurbishment included:

• Replacement and restoration of approximately 80 historic sash windows.

• Repair and restoration of original external masonry.

• Complete replacement of the roof finish and flashings and the strengthening of the roof structure.

• Repair of eight original chimneys, including lead and copper flashings.

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• Sensitive internal reorganisation to provide modern office spaces while respecting historic features.

• Removal of poor-quality rear extensions and prefabricated units, significantly improving both the building’s external presentation and staff amenity area.

• The additional of sustainable heating systems including an electrically powered heat pump.

• The upgrade of the building fabric where possible including increased insulation where possible.

All interventions were carried out with the utmost care for the character and physical fabric of the protected structure. The design and execution have ensured that the building remains in beneficial use for the long term, while safeguarding its heritage value.

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs, and Migration Jim O'Callaghan TD and Minister of State for the Office of Public Works (OPW) Kevin 'Boxer' Moran TD attended the recent official reopening.

Minister O'Callaghan said: "The refurbishment of the historic J Block symbolises the work carried out by Gardaí. This restored and repurposed building will facilitate the work of specialised units who can respond to the shifting challenges faced by Gardaí and the people they work to keep safe.

"While An Garda Síochána is rooted in community and tradition, and we must not lose sight of that, it is important to provide Gardaí with modern, fit-for-purpose facilities to allow them to deliver the world class policing service we require."

Minister Moran added: "The OPW, Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and An Garda Síochána worked closely to deliver this ambitious project, which involved the full refurbishment and sensitive reorganisation of the building to accommodate a specialist police unit, delivering modern office accommodation while preserving the character of the heritage structure."