The General Post Office (GPO) was originally constructed in the early 1800’s, it serves as the headquarters of An Post, the Irish postal service. The GPO is perhaps best known for its role in the Easter Rising of 1916, when the building was heavily damaged during the fighting, but it was restored in the 1920s and remains an important symbol of Irish independence.

The cast iron balustrades above O’Connell Street, Henry Street & Princess Street had become damaged by water penetration and frost shattering overtime.  Dunwoody & Dobson Ltd were appointed as main contractors for the restoration works, which included: –

• Bespoke scaffolding arrangements.
• Removal and reinstatement of existing granite capping.
• Restoration of existing balustrades and replacement of those shattered beyond repair.
• Enhanced weathering and fixing details
• High specification paint finishes to the new and refurbished balustrades.

Dunwoody & Dobson Ltd worked with the project team with a proactive, hands-on approach to provide solutions to restricted working environment with due diligence to the fabric of an iconic and historic building.   As a company we took great pride in being involved on this prestigious project prior to the 2016 Easter Rising Commemorations.

The works were carried out over a busy pedestrian area using bespoke designed scaffolding with careful implementation of safety measures designed to protect the street below, without causing any damage or interference with building fabric.  This included bespoke sheer test design of a cantilevered scaffold.

There was a focus on ensuring the historic heritage of the building was not damaged while providing a lasting and durable finished product.  There was additional focus in ensuring the works were complete in time for the 2016 commemoration of the 1916 Easter Rising.

In addition to the pedestrian area below the entire building remained live for the duration of the works.