Survey Data
Reg No
41402807
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural, Social
Original Use
Garda station/constabulary barracks
In Use As
Garda station/constabulary barracks
Date
1925 - 1930
Coordinates
288169, 312303
Date Recorded
24/03/2012
Date Updated
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Description
Detached five-bay two-storey Garda Síochána station, built 1926, on site of constabulary barrack. Southern two bays project to front. Hipped slate roofs with brick chimneystacks having brick cornices, and cast-iron rainwater goods. Rendered walls having render plat band at first floor sill level, and render plinth. Square-headed window openings, with plain architraves to ground floor front elevation. Most windows blocked, metal security grilles to all remaining windows. Tripartite four-over-four pane timber sliding sash windows to ground floor front elevation, four-over-four pane to ground floor of south-west side elevation, and six-over-six pane to first floor front and to south-west elevation. Replacement uPVC window to north-east. Square-headed door opening having render architrave and cornice, with sheet metal door. Set back from road having rendered boundary walls, rendered gate piers and recent metal pedestrian gate. Open forecourt in front of advanced bay. Enclosed yard to rear. Rubble stone boundary walls to rear and side of site.
Appraisal
This middle-sized Garda Síochána station has an imposing presence in its rural setting. Reconstruction of the rural policing network by the Irish Free State government took place following the troubled period of 1919-21. Damaged constabulary barracks were restored or provided the sites for new stations. This example presents an austere yet dignified public face suited to its purpose. The frankly modern treatment of the doorcase is an interesting counterpoint to the traditional elements of its construction. The station stands close to a busy cross roads and Ashburton National School and because of its public role it has a social significance.