Quay structure prompts council crane reaction

A LARGE, steel crane has become such a permanent fixture in Waterford city’s skyline that there are moves to have it listed as a protected structure.

According to city councillors, the crane is a monument to how busy the working port once was, and should be protected.

Waterford City Council is carrying out renovation work on the massive crane on the quays and is giving it a fresh coat of paint - ahead of the arrival of the Tall Ships Race into the city early next week.

The issue of ownership has been established, with the Port of Waterford Company responsible for it. But the city council hopes to take over its maintenance.

Director of services with the council, Paddy Power, said the authority intends to protect it by making it a listed structure.

“We’re going to do some work on it to make sure it looks at its best for the race,” he said.

“We are in discussions with the port authority about the crane and its ownership.

“It is a critical part of our maritime history that we have this reminder of a city centre working port. It is quite unusual and significant for us. It should be retained,” he added.

Planning and environment director Michael Walsh said it is not unusual for structures which are not buildings to be listed.

“This was recommended for listing in an inventory of 500 to 700 structures by the Department of the Environment. It is fitting and considered reflective of the industrial heritage of the area,” he said.

Port chairman Ben Gavin said the structure was extensively used on the working quay.

“It’s an excellent idea to preserve this structure. Having been to a number of host ports in previous years, I am conscious - as are the entire Port of Waterford team - of the sheer scale of the Tall Ships Race.

“Waterford is the first Irish city to be the starting port in a race series, and our inner port allows the fleet of magnificent vessels to come right into the city, where there’s sure to be a tremendous atmosphere,” he added.