Highlight of Laois heritage in Portlaoise set for a facelift as part of big overhaul

A new phase underway in the ongoing overhaul of an iconic and historic building in Portlaoise involves repairing and revitalising the building's exterior and fixing the roof.

Scaffolding is in place around Portleix House to facilitate repairs to the roof, gutters and decoration of external walls. As for the facade of the imposing building and other exterior walls the Leinster Express / Laois Live has learned that the existing render is to be mainly retained, repaired, and decorated.

It is also understood that the long-term plan is to restore the three protected structures on the site which includes the house. It's intended to convert the main building into offices.

Work began in 2022 on the building's refurbishment. By January 2023, new windows had been installed in the former Parochial House. Clearance work was also underway in the building located opposite SS Peter & Paul's Parish Church.

The building is part of the property that was formerly owned by Portlaoise Parish. It is understood that the house, stables, and two bungalows were sold with property along the Ridge Road, formerly owned by the Presentation Sisters, to Graham Developments.

The process of applying for planning permission for commercial development on the former Presentation Sisters' land began in March this year.

An incomplete application was lodged with Laois County Council to build one retail building containing two large retail units on the land with a separate enclosed service area and one restaurant with drive-thru facility.

It said the proposed development will include the demolition of two residential bungalows and garden walls. These houses were formerly owned by Portlaoise Parish and are located to the rear of Portleix House.

The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH), which is administered by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, says Portleix House is a substantial detached townhouse was built by Dr John Jacob, of the noted Jacob family of doctors and founder of the County Infirmary. It says that from 1912 the house was used as the Parochial House.

"It occupies a prominent position in the town and retains a wealth of original fabric both externally and internally," says the inventory.

The Doric portico and doorcase, which the inventory described as "one of the finest in the town", has been removed. The inventory describes the building as a highlight that needs careful restoration.

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"Although in need of sensitive maintenance and conservation, the house along with its boundary walls and courtyard outbuildings is one of the highlights of Portlaoise's architectural heritage," it said.

The building is stop 21 on the Portlaoise Heritage Trail. A plaque was erected on the building by the Portlaoise Heritage Society supported by Laois County Council and Ireland's Heritage Council to denote this status.