Saint Canices Hospital was originally a Psychiatric Hospital built in 1850, opened 1852 and closed its doors as a hospital on 2006. The structure is listed on the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage and is presently used by the HSE as an outpatient and administrative centre
In February 2014 like many other structures, Saint Canices was badly damaged by storms. Major structural damage was caused to the natural slated roofs, cast iron rainwater goods, lead work and skylights. The entire grounds were affected and a major clean-up plan was put in place.
We devised a safety plan in consultation with the HSE and other contractors on site which allowed the centre to remain open during the works. Our priority was to make safe the roofs where slates were dislodged and the ornate guttering was loose and dangerous. Winds had abated but conditions were still very arduous. Due to the various locations where damage was done and the nature of the structure we gained safe working access via mechanical hoists and our Steeplejack equipment. Once the roofs had been made safe and temporarily weathered, the clean-up commenced and the mammoth task of procuring the natural materials for reinstatement began. We were able to use stock from our own yard in Ardnacrusha and locate the shortfall in salvage yards in Dublin, Cork and Tipperary.
In responding quickly to the HSE request for assistance we were able to devise a plan to allow for the building to function during the works with little disruption to patients and staff.
