Louth Archaeological and Historical Society in Castletown Mount appeal

The County Louth Archaeological and Historical Society has submitted an appeal to An Comisiún Pleanála regarding the development at Dún Dealgan/Castletown Motte/Cúchulainns Castle.

The Society, which was founded in Dundalk in 1903, said that it appealed the planning permission for housing around the listed monument, because it believes the proposals do not adequately protect the monument, its setting or the surrounding historic landscape.

It follows on from news that four Dundalk councillors have also submitted an appeal against the decision, with details on the An Coimisiún Pleanála revealing that two other parties, An Taisce, and Padraig O'Cumascaigh, are also listed as parties making an appeal.

In a statement, the Society told the Dundalk Democrat that: “ Our concerns include the lack of proper provision for, and protection of, an exclusion zone during the construction phase.

“We are also concerned that the proposals for a Heritage Park and for developing its tourism potential lack sufficient detail and substance. In our view, this does not meet the requirements of the Dundalk Local Area Plan and the Louth County Development Plan.

“The important views and aspects of the monument have also not been adequately protected, which is another clear concern in relation to the existing planning policies.

“We are particularly concerned about the proposed removal of approximately 250 metres of historic townland boundary. These boundaries are an important part of the area's heritage and landscape.

“We do not believe the destruction of such a historic feature is adequate compensation for providing a site for a school which may not be built for many years, or potentially, decades.

“Our appeal is about making sure that development takes place while properly protecting the monument, its setting and the historic character of the area for future generations.”