A major new chapter in Waterford’s economic development has begun with the official opening of the Glassworks campus on the former Waterford Crystal factory site.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin opened the €43 million “Building One”, the first phase of Ireland’s first co-located university enterprise quarter.
Major Milestone for Waterford
Developers built the 80,000 square foot facility to accommodate up to 800 employees. The opening comes almost two decades after the closure of the historic Waterford Crystal plant.
The wider Glassworks campus will span 37 acres beside South East Technological University (SETU). Planners expect the full development to support up to 6,000 jobs.
The Taoiseach said the project will drive economic growth in the region.
He said the development will bring enterprise and education together to support jobs, research and innovation across Waterford and the wider southeast.
Strong Demand and Early Tenants
The building is already attracting strong interest, with more than half of the space expected to be occupied by next month.
The project is a joint venture between the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund and Waterford-based developer Frisby.
Healthcare provider Veonet Ireland has confirmed it will open a day hospital unit in the former showroom space.
CEO Frank Doheny said the company wants to embed itself within the local optometry ecosystem and work closely with SETU on training and research.
SETU is currently planning a new optometry course, as demand for qualified professionals continues to grow nationwide.
Focus on Innovation and Collaboration
The Glassworks campus aims to replicate successful international models such as innovation parks linked to universities.
It will bring students, researchers and businesses together in one location to support collaboration and new ideas.
SETU President Professor Veronica Campbell said the development will transform how academia and industry work together in the region.
She said the campus will create new opportunities for innovation and strengthen the southeast’s research and enterprise network.
“A Proud Day for Waterford”
John Cummins, Minister of State for Planning and Local Government, described the opening as a landmark moment.
He said the project marks a significant step in the renewal of a site that played a central role in Waterford’s past.
Cummins said the Glassworks development will once again make the location a hub of innovation, opportunity and ambition.
He praised the partnership between Frisby, ISIF and SETU, adding that the project reflects a strong commitment to regional development.
He also said the campus will create a powerful ecosystem for research, education and high-quality employment, benefiting Waterford and the wider southeast.
Cummins added that developments like Glassworks, alongside projects such as the North Quays, show that Waterford is undergoing major transformation and has a strong future ahead.
Built for the Future
Building One is Waterford’s first purpose-built BER A3-rated office building. It meets LEED Gold and WiredScore Gold standards, reflecting a strong focus on sustainability and connectivity.
Planning permission has also been granted for a 582-bed student accommodation development on adjacent lands.
Developers say further buildings will follow in the coming years, creating a fully integrated campus for business, research and education.
Transformational Project for the Region
The Glassworks development represents a significant investment in Waterford and the southeast.
With strong demand already evident and further expansion planned, the project is expected to play a key role in driving jobs, innovation and economic growth in the years ahead.
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