Waterford Cultural Quarter (WCQ) is based in Waterford City in the South East of Ireland. Waterford is a port city with significant cultural heritage and a vibrant arts scene. In 2022 there were over 60,000 inhabitants. Culture plays a major role in city-making, in developing identity for city neighbourhoods and in delivering social and economic outcomes. WCQ is centred on the O’Connell Street area, the project involves the re-imagination of the urban neighbourhood as a place to integrate, live, work and play.

This linear streetscape of fine buildings that was once the innovation and enterprise hub of Waterford now provides an opportunity to embrace continued evolution; to support liveability, knowledge, experimentation, creativity and innovation in new ways. Reuse, adaptation and upgrading of the historic and more recent buildings in a sustainable and holistic way will ensure that our built heritage is a significant resource for our city in the long term. Provision of space to socialise and mix outdoors, for performance and artistic expression, to flourish and live vibrant lives is essential.

WCQ Vision:

“To deliver inclusive and sustainable innovation and growth for the cultural and creative sectors of south east Ireland; to become a distinctive and engaging place to the heart of Waterford which is open, inspiring and a vital addition to the city’s creative, knowledge and visitor economy”.

Mission:

“A vibrant, creative, supportive community for residents and creative business, and a cultural destination which showcases the best of south east Ireland”.