Call out to save iconic Tipperary building erected in 1863

HELP SAVE COPPER STEEPLE

It is great to announce that the Heritage Council of Ireland has offered funding of €25,000 from the Community Heritage Grant Scheme towards the repair and consolidation of Copper Steeple.

After eight years of applying to various schemes it is great to finally have been awarded funding. However, the cost of the works needed is €41,000. Under the conditions of drawing down the funding, the project must be completed this year and without the balance of €16,000 the works cannot be undertaken.

This is a callout for everyone in the community to get involved in this fundraising drive. If you are a business, an organisation, a local committee group, or an individual you can help by sponsoring part of the project, organising fundraising events, or making donations.

These works need to be funded and completed in one as the Steeple is 96 feet (29.3 metres) high - built in 1863 and needs to be scaffolded to the top for the heritage stone mason to consolidate the structure. Copper Steeple has been deteriorating for a number of years and in the past year several more large stones have dislodged and fallen from the top.

The steeple is the much recognisable landmark and beacon of the Slieveardagh Hills coalmining heritage and a community fundraising drive is necessary to ensure it remains standing for future generations to admire. €41,000 is needed in total. If this opportunity to save it is missed due to a shortfall of €16,000, funding for this project will not be offered again.

If you are in any position to raise or give funding to this project please message or direct message Tipperary Coalmines Facebook page or email tippmines@gmail.com. All offers of assistance are greatly appreciated and will be acknowledged. Slieveardagh Mining Group.