Portlaoise gardaí say farewell to old station on colourful open day

PORTLAOISE gardaí said farewell to their old garda station, as they welcomed crowds to an action-packed open day on Sunday 1 December.

The last annual public open day at the historic building, which is about to be redeveloped, was a fun-filled family event that showcased a variety of special units, including magnificent horses from the Garda Mounted Unit that were a huge hit with younger visitors. 

The Scenes of Crime Unit, Regional Support Unit and Road Policing Unit added excitement and inspiration to a memorable day.

Gardaí said on social media: ‘We celebrated our Little Blue Heroes, showcasing the courage and heart of our youngest supporters. A heartfelt thank you to the Fire Service, Ambulance Service and Laois Civil Defence for their incredible support on the day. Thank you for making this farewell to the old station so special. Together, we look forward to a brighter future for Portlaoise Garda Station, where we’ll continue to serve and protect our community.’ 

The new €25m Laois-Offaly Garda Divisional Headquarters will be developed around the existing garda station on the Abbeyleix Road. Two portable buildings at the front of the station will continue to be manned to assist the public, while 200 or so staff will relocate to Grattan House on the Dublin Road
The first sod was turned last month for the redevelopment, which will include construction of a three-storey office block on the army site at the rear and major refurbishment of part of the old building, which is located within a historic fort.