Restoration of ‘forgotten treasure’ wins award

THE restoration of one of the country’s oldest surviving classical buildings has led to a prestigious architectural award for excellence.

Dating back more than 400 years, the Main Guard in Clonmel was recently refurbished by the Office of Public Works (OPW) using architect Margaret Quinlan’s blueprint.

The Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland this week awarded a silver medal for restoration and conservation to Ms Quinlan for her “dedication and perseverance” with the Main Guard project.