Briery Gap Theatre, Macroom

Led by Cork County Council’s Architects Department, with Theatreplan working in close collaboration with Horgan Lynch, the project has restored and reimagined the theatre as a flexible, contemporary performance space while respecting its importance as a local landmark after a devastating fire in 2016.

Now fully reopened, Briery Gap Theatre operates as a multi‑disciplinary venue, hosting theatre, cinema, and live music. Community engagement was central to the project from the outset, with local residents and users involved throughout the design and construction process. This collaborative approach ensured the completed building responds directly to operational needs and supports a wide range of programming for years to come.

The project presented a number of technical and logistical challenges, including a tightly constrained hillside site, limited space for technical infrastructure, and disruption caused by the Covid‑19 pandemic and wider supply chain pressures. Close coordination across the design team was essential in overcoming these constraints and delivering a robust, well‑integrated solution.

Theatreplan provided specialist design services covering Stage Engineering, Production Lighting, Working Light Controls, Audio, Video, and Communications. Particular focus was placed on the stage and technical areas, where a compact footprint required careful integration of systems. The completed stage engineering installation combines powered hoists with traditional hemp sets, fully coordinated with the building’s mechanical and electrical services to deliver a flexible and reliable performance environment.

The renewed Briery Gap Theatre now stands as a modern, adaptable venue, supporting cultural life in Macroom and securing the long‑term future of an important community asset.