A New Dawn for The Mechanics Institute

The historic “Mechanics Institute” on Wexford’s Main Street is to see a new beginning as a community space under the management of the Community Department of Wexford County Council.  In the past 2 years the Special Projects team of Wexford County Council has carried out essential protection works on the historic structure to prevent it from falling into further disrepair.  Now, an internal refurbishment project is underway to bring it back into regular use for the community.  The initial primary leaseholders will be a joint committee of well-known Wexford based theatre groups who have long served the town with their top-class productions of pantomimes, musicals and dramas.   Wexford Pantomime Society, Oyster Lane Theatre Group and Wexford Drama Group will make joint use of the building for their rehearsals, meetings, props and costume preparation and storage facilities. Commenting on the launch of the refurbishment project, Mayor of Wexford, Cllr. Garry Laffan said “I am really delighted to see the old Mechanics Institute building being brought back to life after all these years lying empty.  It has been a common issue raised by the public in recent years and it’s terrific that we have finally found a solution.  Over the years, thousands of Wexford people have enjoyed and taken part in productions from all three of these theatre groups which are managed by production teams and committees of volunteers whose only driver is the sheer love of theatre.  It’s great that we can lend our support to what is a tremendous Wexford tradition of quality theatre.“ Wexford County Council’s, Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe said “I am delighted to have found such a relevant and much needed use for the historic Mechanics Institute.  It is a great result all round for everyone involved and we hope the building will help strengthen the already excellent theatre culture enjoyed in the town.  The building is centrally located on Wexford’s Main Street and so it is really important to bring it back into use for the people of Wexford.  Hopefully now that we have made the investment, the building will continue to provide quality community space for future generations.” Cllr Leonard Kelly and Cllr Catherine Walsh with members of Oyster Lane Theatre Group, Wexford Drama Group, Wexford Pantomime Society, Wexford Borough District Council and Wexford County Council were pictured in The Mechanics Institute on Wexford's Main Street on Monday. Pic: Jim Campbell