The importance of design in addressing our pressing national infrastructure deficit has arguably never been more critical. Because of this pressure, and the strains placed on the natural world, new forms of awareness are needed. The Office of Public Works has commissioned two new films to focus on two major publicly funded infrastructure projects 80km apart on Ireland’s southeastern coastline. Through the eyes of those whose lives they directly impact and through the voices of their local 46min + Q&A communities, themes of care, consideration and capacity, all from unexpected places to progress our national development plan with enduring outcomes, are explored. Architecture and the built environment are matters of public priority. The Office of Public Works and the Irish Architecture Foundation proudly bring these two original works to a wide audience, to debate their value for many. This is Ireland’s National Policy on Architecture in action.



CIRCLE: ARKLOW WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT

After a 35-year wait, the town of Arklow finally got their long- promised wastewater treatment plant and amid the joy and international attention, Clancy Moore, an architectural practice, are celebrated by the existing and emerging communities for their role in its making.

THRESHOLD: ROSSLARE EUROPORT

Following the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union, a major redesign of customs and border control at Rosslare Europort was a time bound imperative.
The project, an ambitious overhaul of the 20-hectare port facility led by Architectural Services within the Office of Public Works, serves as a threshold between Ireland and a constantly changing world.