The largest replica World War One trench in both the UK and Ireland has officially reopened at Cavan County Museum, following extensive renovation and improvement works.
The immersive outdoor installation - featuring over 350m of frontline, communication, and support trenches - was designed according to the specification used by the Royal Irish Fusiliers at the Battle of the Somme in 1916.
First opening in 2014, the WWI Trench Experience was not originally envisaged as a permanent structure. However, the installation went on to attract tens of thousands of visitors from around the world and its popularity was such that Cavan County Council decided to secure its future.
Contractors Brackley Landscaping and Consultant Engineers O'Connor Sutton Cronin were engaged to complete an extensive renovation and improvement project, which involved a complete rebuild, adding a new retaining wall and improved on-site drainage, in an investment of over €480,000 by the local authority.
In addition to these structural works, new features and experiential improvements were added, including more trench length, a viewing platform and a separate exit from the exhibition.
Accessibility has also been improved with the trenches widened to allow for mobility aids, a ramp added to the viewing platform, and Perspex panels fitted around the viewing platform, allowing a full view of the trench complex.
Officially re-launching the award-winning attraction, the Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Councillor John Paul Feeley said the project was a collaborative effort and he wanted to highlight its historical significance.
"I want to congratulate the museum team and our own council engineers for their efforts in not only renovating but significantly improving this wonderful installation, one of the jewels in the crown of our tourist offering.
"Over 210,000 Irish men fought in the Great War, and 49,000 of those - including 752 Cavan men - were killed. They were victims of imperialism. Those who died or returned injured were part of our complex history," he said.
"This immersive experience allows visitors young and old to engage with that history in an innovative and exciting way. These important works will help preserve the memory of those who lost their lives and will continue to attract visitors to Cavan for many years to come," Cllr Feeley added.
Chief Executive of Cavan County Council Eoin Doyle said given the experience proved hugely popular over the past ten years, it was clear that further investment in the installation was warranted.
"It has become a firm favourite among locals, tourists, and indeed teachers and students across the country, for whom the trenches provide a soberingly visceral window into the conditions endured by Irish soldiers at the time.
"When it became clear that the elements had taken a toll on the installation, both management and the elected members were united in their determination to preserve and further develop this award-winning attraction for years to come, and it’s clear from the quality of the finished product, that the investment has been most worthwhile," he added.
Cavan County Council’s Director of Service with responsibility for Cultural Services Lynda McGavigan said: "Cavan boasts one of top local museums in the country, and with this newly improved flagship installation now open to the public, staffed by a dynamic, passionate, and committed team, locals and visitors alike can continue to enjoy a top-class museum experience at Cavan County Museum."
The WWI Trench Experience along with many other exhibits can be viewed at the Cavan County Museum in Ballyjamesduff, which opens daily from Tuesday to Saturday.
