In 2017, several local visionaries undertook the remarkable task of revitalising the once-abandoned 9-acre site that was Ireland’s largest steel fabricator, ‘Butler’s Steel.’ The extensive 76,000 sq feet of warehouses and offices, dormant for over a decade, witnessed a transformation into a thriving hub of commerce, agribusiness, and employment. With meticulous effort, the former workshops were reimagined and repurposed, featuring a garden centre housed within revamped warehouses and creatively repurposed 40ft containers. Serving as a beacon of possibility, the project now stands as Ireland’s Greenest Campus, employing over 100 people. Beyond mere employment, the site embodies a commitment to environmental sustainability, incorporating solar panels, EV charging, water self-sufficiency, and innovative initiatives like converting waste food to chickens’ eggs and blooming 10,000 daffodils. Embodying the spirit of Portarlington, the project aspires to be a community hub, an artistic wonderland, and a catalyst for an eventful life, showcasing the best of the town, Laois, and Ireland.
We use Local suppliers. solar panels, excellent recycling practices, EV charging point, grid water self sufficient. 70% of our energy usage comes from solar power. Our indoor and outdoor cafe is made from recycled materials, shipping containers and used timber. We have electric car charging, a wildflower meadow, bee hives, and chickens on site who manage our food waste.
We make our own Honey! Our cows milk comes from cattle 100m away.
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Our Awards include Irish Restaurant Awards - Best Sustainable Practices and Innovator of the Year. Laois Business Awards - Laois Business Start Up of the Year 2023, and we were also a 'Best Sustainable Restaurant' Nominee 2023.
