2025:532 - Ballycogly Castle, Wexford

Funding: Community Monuments Fund 2024–2025 (CMF24-1-2-WX004; CMF25-1-WX001)

Archaeological monitoring was undertaken during Phase 2 conservation works at Ballycogly Castle, Co. Wexford, in 2025. The project followed Phase 1 emergency stabilisation works completed in 2024 after a significant structural collapse in February 2024 rendered the late medieval tower house unstable. The monument (WX047-019001) is protected under the National Monuments Acts.

The 2024 collapse caused substantial masonry failure, dispersing rubble across an adjacent lawn area and damaging nearby outbuildings. Temporary structural restraints were installed during Phase 1 to prevent further collapse and remained in place pending permanent conservation works.

Phase 2 works focused on stabilisation of the north wall, including crack stitching, consolidation of wall tops, stabilisation of window openings, and repointing of the արտաքին face. During monitored stone removal at the southern wall, six worked stones were identified, recorded, and retained. Clearance of ivy and debris revealed a previously obscured slit window at upper level and a doorway in the south wall.

Monitoring confirmed that works were confined to collapse material and disturbed fabric. No intact archaeological deposits were impacted. All works were undertaken in accordance with best-practice conservation guidance and completed in September 2025.