The historic Fireplace site at 35–39 Nicholas Street in Limerick is set for major redevelopment following the award of over €6.5 million in funding through the Government's THRIVE scheme.

The project will retain the surviving medieval fireplace and historic fabric while creating The Forge Design Factory, a design and innovation hub with studios, exhibition and retail spaces, and a café/restaurant.

The project has received full planning permission, allowing construction to proceed without delay. Engagement with the Kings Island community has been integral to the planning process, ensuring the redevelopment aligns with local priorities.

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Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, welcomed the funding announcement: "With planning permission, councillor backing, positive public engagement, and funding secured we can forge ahead with this transformational development."

Meanwhille, Vincent Murray, Director of Planning, Environment and Place-Making at LCCC, highlighted the council’s role: "Nicholas Street is central to the story of Limerick, and this project represents an exciting opportunity to unlock its potential once again. I want to acknowledge our excellent team at Limerick City and County Council led by Maria Woods, Senior Planner, who have taken this project from its earliest concept stage through to design and preparation of a strong funding application under THRIVE."

THRIVE is supported through Ireland's European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) programmes to restore vacant or derelict heritage buildings in public ownership – revitalising urban centres, bringing valued heritage buildings back into use as community assets and delivering on New European Bauhaus and Town Centre First policies.