Heritage Officer

29/08/2025

Welcome to our new staff spotlight section which highlights the many services delivered by Cork City Council on a daily basis. 

In this edition of our staff spotlight, you'll get to know our Heritage Officer, Niamh Twomey. 

Tell us about your job?

As Heritage Officer my main role is to produce and implement the Cork City Heritage Plan. I often provide advice on heritage matters internally in Cork City Council as well as supporting members of the public and community groups to develop their heritage projects. I also input into planning policy plans & projects and occasionally comment on planning applications. A very important part of my job is to raise awareness on the importance of promoting and protecting our heritage and organise events particularly during Heritage Week. I am very fortunate to work with a team of heritage experts including the Architectural Conservation Officers, City Archaeologist and Biodiversity Officers.

How did you end up working as the Heritage Officer of Cork City Council?

The role of the Heritage Officer is a “jack of all trades and master of none”. My qualifications are in Zoology and Environmental Science. I have worked in lots of jobs including being a Zookeeper, working in the Renewable energy industry and as a community development officer. I believe this variety of qualifications and previous work experience ideally suits the diversity of the role of Heritage Officer.

What does a typical day involve?

There is no typical day in my job. I may start off the day project managing an action from the Heritage plan on maybe a graveyard or organising an event for Heritage Week. I might then get a call from a colleague for advice on something like street furniture, followed by meeting with a community member about a local history project. Each day is different, and I learn something new every day about the heritage of this city.

What is your favourite part of your job?

My favourite part of this job is without a doubt meeting & supporting individuals and communities that help keep the heritage of this city alive and flourishing.

What can make your job challenging at times?

The job is never really challenging. Lack of understanding and apathy towards the importance and value of heritage economically, environmentally and for our well-being is frustrating but the job itself is very rewarding, and I am always learning something new.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t worry so much. Everything will work out for the best