Proposed new Hook Lighthouse Visitor Centre
A potentially very exciting new tourism facility is currently
being planned - the Hook Lighthouse Visitor Centre.
The Hook Lighthouse is a rare example of an almost intact
medieval lighthouse. Dating from the early 13th century, it
represented a major feat of building at the time of its
construction. It is of great archaeological, architectural and
historical importance. Except for a short break in the 17th
century, this unique tower has served as a lighthouse for seven and
a half centuries. It is regarded as the oldest lighthouse in
Ireland and Britain and it is probably one of the oldest in
Europe.
The Lighthouse is due for automation in April 1996. Given the uniqueness of Hook Lighthouse, the Commissioners of Irish Lights decided to see if it could be established as a tourist attraction after the station has been automated and de-manned.
A company, Hook Heritage Ltd, has been set up to manage the project, made up of representatives from Wexford County Council, South East Regional Tourism Organisation Ltd, South West Wexford Partnership Ltd, and the Hook Tourism Development Association. The Company also has power to co-opt additional members onto the management committee and will work in close co-operation with the Commissioners.
A feasibility study was carried out in 1994 by consultants, Tourism Development International Ltd. This study clearly indicated a significant market potential for the development of Hook Lighthouse as a visitor attraction. Projected visitor numbers are from 15,000 to 25,000 within five years of opening. Development and marketing programmes have been prepared and costed.
A two phase development programme is envisaged. Hook Heritage Ltd is committed to implementing Phase 1 of the development programme and plans to open the Lighthouse to the public in 1996.
Phase 1 includes the provision of car parking and the development of the present Keepers' house to provide a reception area, an audio visual presentation, tea room, shop and toilets. Certain works are also required to the Lighthouse in order to make it safe to the public and to offer guided tours up the tower. Phase 2 will be the development of the second house in order to provide a larger audio visual area, cafeteria, shop and craft shop, as well as an additional museum area.
The funding for the development of Hook Lighthouse is being sought from a number of sources.
Michael Taylor
The Lighthouse is due for automation in April 1996. Given the uniqueness of Hook Lighthouse, the Commissioners of Irish Lights decided to see if it could be established as a tourist attraction after the station has been automated and de-manned.
A company, Hook Heritage Ltd, has been set up to manage the project, made up of representatives from Wexford County Council, South East Regional Tourism Organisation Ltd, South West Wexford Partnership Ltd, and the Hook Tourism Development Association. The Company also has power to co-opt additional members onto the management committee and will work in close co-operation with the Commissioners.
A feasibility study was carried out in 1994 by consultants, Tourism Development International Ltd. This study clearly indicated a significant market potential for the development of Hook Lighthouse as a visitor attraction. Projected visitor numbers are from 15,000 to 25,000 within five years of opening. Development and marketing programmes have been prepared and costed.
A two phase development programme is envisaged. Hook Heritage Ltd is committed to implementing Phase 1 of the development programme and plans to open the Lighthouse to the public in 1996.
Phase 1 includes the provision of car parking and the development of the present Keepers' house to provide a reception area, an audio visual presentation, tea room, shop and toilets. Certain works are also required to the Lighthouse in order to make it safe to the public and to offer guided tours up the tower. Phase 2 will be the development of the second house in order to provide a larger audio visual area, cafeteria, shop and craft shop, as well as an additional museum area.
The funding for the development of Hook Lighthouse is being sought from a number of sources.
- Structural Fund Grant assistant - South Eastern Regional Tourism Organisation/Bord Failte.
- Financial assistance - County Council, Local Agencies and community.
- Sponsorship.
Michael Taylor