Security

The security of Dublin Castle has been of the utmost importance for centuries, originally as a stone fortress – the building of which began in 1204 – and now as a major government complex and key tourist attraction. Individual Strategic Framework Plan proposals have been developed on the basis that current security measures will remain in force and, where applicable, be extended to cover any new areas of the site being opened to the public.

As described earlier, the Strategic Framework Plan proposes to open up the territory of the Castle as part of a strategy to make the site a more integral part of the city, increasing the porosity of the grounds and encouraging more general and incidental pedestrian use by creating additional entrances and redefining those that already exist. Proposals to improve access to the site are balanced with the need for security and we understand that the ability to put the site into “lockdown” for state events is a crucial requirement. This will continue to be a key consideration as individual projects are taken forward to the next phase of planning and design development. It is also important to note that the area of property involved in creating a new entrance from Exchequer St (see Zone 6 proposals) does not fall into the OPW’s current ownership or security remit and will need to be discussed with An Garda Síochána before plans can be progressed.

Regarding the location of the Security Office, as per the proposal for Zone 4, the building that currently houses security staff and equipment provides an opportunity for improving access to the upper level of Ship St Little. This is based on the understanding that this building – a quirky brick-built guardhouse located over the archway that leads to the “Castle Steps” – is not fit for purpose. The challenge of relocating the Security Office to a more suitable facility will need to be addressed if this proposal is to be implemented. Suggestions include the ground floor of George’s Hall or space within the basement of Block M, if available. This will need to form part of a general review by the OPW based on the Security Team’s current needs and anticipated future requirements, including consideration of technological developments.

Where new routes are to be created through the State Apartments building, Eastern Cross Block, Record Tower and so on, we expect that additional pin & proximity readers will be installed to match those currently in place across the majority of the site. Ideally, any doorways that currently use a different security system will also be upgraded, allowing for easier management of staff and visitor access throughout the site. VISUAL / PHOTO GOES HERE

VEHICLE BARRIER AT SHIP ST GATE

VIEW DOWN ON TO SHIP ST LITTLE FROM SECURITY OFFICE