The St Vincent de Paul Drop-In Centre provides much needed services to the homeless community of Limerick, including those who are “street homeless”, those in B&Bs and emergency hostels with nowhere to go during the day and people who are at high risk of becoming homeless. Up to eighty people use this service per day. The Centre is located in what used to be the old stable block of Ozanam House (Protected structure RPS171). The building was damp and straining to provide adequate facilities for its many clients. Hence, the aim was developed to conserve this 19th century building while enhancing its functionality.

Problems Identified:

• Main roof was leaking
• Lean to roof had failed structurally and was leaking badly
• Masonry walls were in need of repair
• Internal facilities were below modern standards

Works at Ground Floor

Failed modern floor coverings were replaced, new seating was installed and the kitchen facilities were upgraded. An internal false ceiling had been constructed, which lowered the height of the room. This was removed and the condition of the historic ceiling joints was inspected to ensure structural safety.

First Floor

The original roof structure and timbers were repaired and the modern asbestos slates were replaced with natural slates. Toilets, shower and changing facilities were upgraded and security, electrical and mechanical services were enhanced and upgraded.

External Walls

The external walls were repointed and repaired as were the cast iron gutters. replaced those which were too rusted to be reused. The archway and entrance was also repaired and made safe.

Graffiti removal was undertaken on a phased basis and when chemical agents failed, the graffiti was removed by soda blasting which was very successful in removing the graffiti without damaging the stonework and brickwork.

This historic building is now increasingly proficient for its purpose of providing meals, laundry services, medication, information and support to those in need in Limerick City.