Waterford Glassworks: Latest Enterprise Quarter Opens at Former Crystal Site

Waterford, Ireland – Taoiseach Micheál Martin officially opened the country’s first co-located university enterprise quarter today at the former Waterford Crystal manufacturing site, now known as ‘Glassworks’. The initiative aims to drive employment, research, and education in the southeast region of Ireland.

A New Hub for Innovation and Employment

The €43 million ‘Building One’, spanning 80,000 sq/ft, will eventually house 800 employees. This marks a significant step in the redevelopment of the 37-acre site, which has remained vacant since Waterford Crystal ceased operations there in 2009 . The overall site is projected to accommodate up to 6,000 employees in the future .

Collaboration Between Academia and Industry

Glassworks is strategically located adjacent to academic and research facilities belonging to South East Technological University (SETU). This co-location is intended to foster collaboration between businesses, researchers, and students, mirroring successful models like the University of Nottingham’s Innovation Park and the Cortex innovation district in St. Louis, Missouri .

Key Partnerships and Developments

The first commercial building was developed through a joint venture between the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) and Frisby, a Waterford-based developer. More than half of the building is expected to be leased by next month . Veonet Ireland, a clinical eye care service provider, will open a day-unit in the former Waterford Crystal showrooms .

SETU’s Role and Future Plans

The development aligns with SETU’s plans to launch a new course in optometry, and Veonet Ireland is exploring partnerships with the university for training and research . Planning permission has also been granted for a 582-student bed development on adjacent lands .

Regional Impact and Investment

According to Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, Glassworks will be a “game changer” for the southeast region, elevating its innovation capability and fostering collaboration . The €130 million initiative represents a significant investment in the region’s economic future and . Sarah Hickey, Senior Investment Director at ISIF, emphasized the project’s contribution to long-term regional development and the creation of high-value jobs .