Essential roof repair works have officially commenced at the fortified tower (keep) of Athlone Castle in Co. Westmeath, a project welcomed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) in partnership with Westmeath County Council.

The maintenance programme involves upgrading and replacing the roof area, which includes the fibreglass gutters. To deliver the project, OPW carpenters are collaborating with an external contractor to remove and replace damaged fittings and gutter linings.

Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin 'Boxer' Moran said: "This project is an important step in preserving one of Athlone's most significant heritage landmarks. The OPW is delighted to work in collaboration with Westmeath County Council to protect the castle's historic fabric and support the next phase of the wider visitor experience development. These necessary works highlight the enduring care needed to preserve this historic landmark for future generations to enjoy."

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Following the completion of the roof repairs, Westmeath County Council is set to launch significant enhancement works at the Athlone Castle visitor centre. This upcoming development secured €3.2 million in funding through Fáilte Ireland's 'Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme', which is co-funded by the EU and the Government of Ireland under the EU Just Transition Fund.

Deputy Mayor of the Municipal District of Athlone-Moate, Cllr. Aengus O'Rourke said: "I am delighted to see the commencement of these important works at The Keep. These works are hugely important for the conservation of the Keep and for the development of Athlone Castle as a significant tourist attraction in the Midlands Region. We welcome the collaboration with the OPW on this project to ensure the protection and enhancement of Athlone Castle and we look forward to welcoming visitors back to the Castle when the enhancement works are complete."

Athlone Castle is currently closed to the public while the project is carried out. The roof works started on 15 May 2026 and are projected to take roughly eight weeks to complete, subject to weather conditions and site access.