Archive Repository Project

An aisle containing documents on shelves

The National Archives currently holds 60 million records dating from the 14th century to the modern day. We want to ensure safe, accessible storage of these invaluable records into the future.

Director Orlaith McBride and Head of Corporate Services David Noonan explain the plan and work that is underway.

A major project has now begun to re-develop our historic warehouse, formerly the W&R Jacob & Company biscuit factory, into a state-of-the-art repository.

Future proofed archive repository

The €37 million project will future-proof the records of the State over the coming decades in a purpose-built, passive design, modern archive building.

Increased storage capacity

The new repository will have the capacity to hold 250,000 archive boxes. Combined with our current onsite storage areas, we will have the capacity to store 600,000 archive boxes at the National Archives site on Bishop Street.

This expansion will significantly enhance researchers’ access to a wider range of records by increasing our onsite capacity and reducing the quantity of material held offsite. Consequently, researchers will benefit from quicker access to collections, facilitating more efficient and comprehensive research.

 

Funding

The project is funded by the Department for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and is being delivered in partnership with the Office of Public Works.