BOP worked closely with stakeholders to define an ambitious yet achievable vision, shaping the interpretive narrative and drawing on international benchmarks to guide future positioning. Our approach encouraged thinking beyond its role as a garden, positioning Mount Congreve as a cultural and tourism anchor for Waterford and the wider Ireland’s Ancient East region. 

Our involvement covered every stage of development, from early concept design and business case through to the long-term operational model. The scope included developing a clear vision and value proposition, producing a commercial strategy and operational plan to grow visitor numbers and diversify revenue streams, and preparing a detailed financial model covering income analysis, investment requirements, funding mechanisms, and long-term projections. 

We also reviewed governance and staffing structures and designed a sustainability framework with recommendations for low-carbon operations and biodiversity enhancements. 

Our recommendations directly informed Mount Congreve’s successful bid for government and EU funding, unlocking major capital investment. Since reopening in 2023, the estate has welcomed a surge of new visitors, cemented its role as a flagship destination in Ireland’s Ancient East, and is now on a clear pathway to long-term financial sustainability and global recognition.