Tenders sought for west Mayo Coast Guard station

Tenders are currently being sought for the construction of the new Irish Coast Guard station in Westport, according to Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon.

To be located at The Quay, the winning contractor will construct the new building as well as electrical and mechanical installation works.

The deadline for receipt of tenders for the work is December 9, after which it is hoped that work will start on the new building.

Deputy Dillon said: “The construction of this new station is to facilitate the Irish Coast Guard rescue services for local emergency rescue, which is a vital service in the west Mayo community."

The Westport Coast Guard unit currently operates out of a small temporary facility. A new building is necessary for the successful ongoing work of the unit, an essential part of the local community.

Deputy Dillon added that the new station will house vehicles and boats used by the team. “The service needs a building suitable for rapid response to emergency call-outs. The station will also have an operations room, providing maximum coastal visibility from which rescues are co-ordinated, a training or meeting room, offices, changing rooms and drying facilities for protective clothing.”

Deputy Dillon concluded: “I am delighted to see further progress by the Office of Public Works and Mayo County Council with the successful site transfer and the granting of planning permission, which has brought us to this stage, one step closer to this station being constructed.”