A delayed expansion of Galway City Museum has been unveiled, with plans for an investment of over €19 million being announced.
The existing facility is to be redeveloped and integrated with a new three-storey extension.
A viewing point will also be constructed at the top of the Spanish Arch, which will offer visitors elevated views of The Claddagh and the River Corrib.
The project was initially announced in 2019, when it was costed at more than €10 million.
Progress was delayed during the pandemic and Fáilte Ireland says the updated plans reflect "a range of cost changes", due to a redesign and expansion of the initial proposals.
The significant increase in the costs of the planned redevelopment has been attributed to revised works on the existing museum, additional structural repairs to the adjacent city wall, updated specifications for the new extension, along with revised mechanical and electrical costs.
The proximity of the building to the River Corrib has resulted in what are described as "greater drainage requirements", further adding to the overall bill.
The area in question is prone to flooding and is covered by a separate, long awaited, flood defence plan, which has also mushroomed in cost.
The tourism development authority will provide €12.6 million towards the museum works, with the remainder covered by Galway City Council.
Described as a "transformative redevelopment" of the facility, it is hoped the expanded museum will boost tourist numbers to the city and generate an additional €43 million in visitor spend locally, over a ten-year period.
Fáilte Ireland says it will be a "leading cultural hub on the Wild Atlantic Way", with new galleries and immersive exhibition spaces.
Its CEO Caroline Bocquel says it should attract more visitors, lengthen their stay and help them form a better connection with the city and its surrounds.
Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke said the investment highlighted the role tourism played in driving regional economic development.
