Economic Value of Ireland's Historic Environment - The Heritage ...

nationally significant art and furniture collection publically available. For the first time in many years
visitors can now visit the upper floor of the House. The House, Gardens and Arboretum have remained
open during the refurbishment period. The refurbishment has been a predominant focus during the period
in monetary and physical terms. However, a great deal of progress has also been made in developing
participation-based activities. The majority of house events, activities and public tours operate March –
September when the house is open 7 days/week. October – March opening is restricted to organised
events and activities.
Obtaining the Fota collection of artefacts and paintings, and placement of these in the House, has also
been a major development during the recent period.
Product development and promotional events also continued to be a focus even during the refurbishment
period 61 . This includes a variety of seasonal events for children, as well as development of an innovative
web-based Fota Learning Zone. 62 These contribute to growing new and sustainable audiences, and
creating and maintaining links with the regional visitor economic and community.
8.3 Inputs
There is an entry charge for entry to Fota House (Adult €6, Child €3, Senior/Students €4, Family €15).
Capital investment during the years 2007-12 will have totalled about
€4.3 million in public funding. This includes grants from the
Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government
and from Fáilte Ireland, together with smaller grants from the
Heritage Council. In addition, acquisition of the Wood Collection
involved tax relief of €5.2 million and private contribution equivalent to
approximately €1mn+. Current income in 2010 was €400,000 63 , up
from €390,000 in 2009 and €300,000 in 2008. Commercial
sponsorship commenced in 2010 and is expected to grow.
8.4 Economic Benefits
Fota House has been part of the public amenity and tourism asset of Fota Island since the 1980s. The
principal economic benefit of recent activity to date, in accordance with the Heritage Trust mandate, has
been to help preserve and retain a property that might otherwise have slipped into decline or closure.
A significant economic benefit, in addition to securing the future of a declining heritage asset, has been
the substantial investment of funds within the regional economy. This is through the capital investment
and also through the normal annual operations of the property involving employment and the purchase of
goods and services. International research also indicates that the multiplier effect from a heritage property
on the local economy is also substantial.
61 Irish Heritage Trust, An Illustration of the Trust’s work at Fota House, Arboretum and Gardens, 2008-11, July 2011
62 www.fotalearningzone.ie
63 The Fota Trust Co. Ltd
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