A FORMER Magdalene laundry in Limerick City is set to be transformed into a new design hub.
The Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has applied for planning permission at the former Good Shepherd Convent laundry on Pennywell Road, near the Limerick School of Art and Design (LSAD) on Clare Street.
TUS and VHA Architects plan to change the use of the building into an education and research facility.
The former laundry first opened in Limerick in 1848, operating as a Magdalene laundry until 1982.
If planning is granted, the former laundry building would become known as The Forge Design Factory, and be positioned as the first ever interdisciplinary design and learning hub in the country.
Works to the building include the upgrade of existing external finishes, replacement of existing roof finishes, re-instatement of flat roof lights and new windows facing Pennywell Road, as well as new signage.
New entrance canopies, replacement of existing windows, and the interior demolition of existing stairs with a proposed new stairs and lift are also listed on the planning file.
The open plan development will cater to creative workshops, new products, and large machinery, as well as weekend and evening classes on site.
There will also be access to summer schools, industry events, and a private health services suite, including an open plan space with gym equipment.
Efforts will be made, according to TUS, to retain the history of the existing laundry building, which has been empty now for 43 years.
