‘Dead Zoo’ not to reopen until the 2030s
Summary
John Brady, chair of the Public Accounts Committee, discusses the delayed reopening of the Natural History Museum, which is not expected to reopen until 2034 at the earliest. He highlights concerns over the OPW’s lack of final cost estimates and a history of overruns, comparing the timeline to other major infrastructure projects. The conversation also touches on the museum’s previous closure and the need for ministerial accountability to ensure timely completion.
Topics discussed
Introduction and initial query on the Natural History Museum
Questioning the delay in reopening the museum
Review of expenditure breakdown and project timeline
Projected completion dates and OPW performance concerns
Current costs and comparison to historical construction projects
Historical context of the 2007 closure and failed refurbishment
Uncertainty over final costs and comparison to Dublin Metro
Broader issues with public project timelines and OPW assets
Suggestion for alternative location and closing remarks
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