Arklow Library

This project involves the demolition of the existing Dunnes Stores building at the junction of Arklow’s Main Street and Castle Park and the construction of a two/three storey landmark building to accommodate Arklow Civic Library (900 sqm) and Municipal Offices (600sqm).

The superstructure comprises a steel frame supporting composite floors which consisted of metal decking with reinforced concrete topping. The staircases comprise exposed reinforced concrete to walls and stairs. Care had to be taken to ensure the quality of the concrete finish was maintained because of the exposed nature of these elements.

The site slopes steeply upwards from Main Street and thus the lower ground floor is mostly below outside ground level. The sub-structure to this part of the building comprises reinforced concrete pads, ground beams and integral slab and rising walls. This reinforced concrete box is waterproofed externally.