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Waterford Industrial Estate

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Industrial site
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Waterford Industrial Estate (Ireland)

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Waterford Industrial Estate is one of Ireland's oldest and most significant industrial zones, established by the state agency IDA in the 1960s. Spanning over 1,000 hectares, it now hosts a world-leading cluster for pharmaceuticals and medical technology. Renowned companies such as Sanofi and Bausch + Lomb operate large-scale production and research facilities here, employing thousands of people. The site's economic importance to Southeast Ireland is immense, as it contributes significantly to the national export volume. Through close links with South East Technological University (SETU) Waterford, a continuous transfer of knowledge and innovation is ensured. Geographical proximity to the Port of Belview allows for efficient logistics for overseas trade. Despite the shift in the traditional crystal glass industry, Waterford has successfully reinvented itself as a high-tech location. State-of-the-art infrastructure and a focus on biopharmaceutical production characterize the current face of the industrial estate, which continues to see massive investment to maintain its global competitiveness.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C8789121416161513109
Rain mm997780696778828678116116117

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Waterford Industrial Estate is one of the largest and oldest industrial estates in Ireland. It hosts numerous manufacturing companies and plays a key role in the regional economy.
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Visiting
Typically, the estate is not open to the public. Visitors can view the factory buildings and logistics areas from public roads surrounding the site.
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Where to view it
Good viewpoints include the main access roads and nearby pedestrian paths. The estate's vast scale can be seen from the perimeter areas.
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Local products
Goods produced at the estate are mostly exported and rarely sold on site. Local shops may occasionally offer regional products such as electronics or machine parts.
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Active season
Activity is high year-round, with peaks depending on seasonal demand. Weekdays see the heaviest logistics traffic, while weekends are quieter.
Nearby
Combine the visit with nearby Waterford city, famous for the Viking Triangle. The scenic coastline and Waterford Harbour are also worth exploring.

Geography

Coordinates
52.24800, -7.13500

Facts

  • Established in 1966 as one of Ireland's first major IDA industrial parks.
  • The estate covers over 1,000 hectares of developed industrial land.
  • Sanofi and Bausch + Lomb are the anchor employers within the park.
  • Sanofi alone employs approximately 700 highly skilled staff at this site.
  • Strong collaborative links with South East Technological University (SETU).
  • Close proximity to the Port of Belview for international shipping logistics.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Sights in the town Waterford Industrial Estate (10)

Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine

Wayside shrine in Waterford, Ireland.

Holy Family Church

Church in Waterford, County Waterford, Ireland.

Spraoi Studios

Arts centre in Waterford with creative spaces.

Sacred Heart Church

Church in Waterford, County Waterford, Ireland.

French Tower

Fortified tower in Waterford, Ireland.

Church Of The Most Holy Trinity Without

Church building in County Waterford, Ireland.

Forum

Theatre in Waterford for performances.

Double Tower

Fortified tower in Waterford, Ireland.

Watch Tower

Fortified tower in Waterford, Ireland.

St John's Priory

Ruins of a former priory in Waterford.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is done in Waterford Industrial Estate?
A mix of pharma, med-tech, and electronics manufacturing.
Where is it located?
On the Cork Road, west of Waterford city center.
Is there retail there?
The estate is industrial, but there are retail parks across the road.
What role does it play for the region?
It is one of the largest employment hubs in Southeast Ireland.
Can the factories be visited?
Mostly no; for factory tours, Waterford Crystal is the best choice.
Waterford Industrial Estate: where is it located?
Waterford Industrial Estate is located in Ireland.
Waterford Industrial Estate: what is there to see?
Highlights include Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, Holy Family Church, Spraoi Studios.
Waterford Industrial Estate: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Waterford Industrial Estate: why is it worth visiting?
Waterford Industrial Estate is one of Ireland's oldest and most significant industrial zones, established by the state agency IDA in the 1960s.
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