Development plan · Longford County Council
Longford County Development Plan 2021–2027
The council's development plan written statement: its strategy, policies, objectives and development standards.
Longford County Council · 2021–2027 · 486 pages
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- The RSES includes a number of relevant Regional Policy Objectives (RPOs): ■ RPO 9.24: Promote and facilitate the role of arts and culture in recognition of its importance to people’s identity and the potential for economic development through a unique cultural tourism offering throughout the Region. ■ RPO 9.25: Seek to work with all relevant stakeholders to promote equality of access to and engagement with arts and cultural services and in the promotion of culture and heritage led urban and rural regeneration. ■ RPO 9.26: Seek to build on the success and support the clustering of the film and audiovisual sector in the Dublin and Wicklow areas and to support training of film workers and crew around the Region, as well as exploiting opportunities for the industry outside of these hubs. ■ RPO 9.27: EMRA will support local authorities to work with local communities to promote historic towns in the Region in the practice of heritage led regeneration, to promote the sensitive and adaptive reuse of historic building stock and industrial structures where appropriate, and to strengthen their capability to draw down European and national funding. ■ RPO 9.28: Support the implementation of language plans for the Region’s Gaeltachts and the identification of Gaeltacht Service Towns and Irish Language Networks in the Region, and to promote the development of the Gaeltacht in Meath in a manner that protects and enhances the distinctive linguistic and cultural heritage, whilst meeting the needs and aspirations of both residents and visitors alike. ■ RPO 9.30: Support the sensitive reuse of Protected Structures. 11.4 Other Relevant Plans and Guidelines 11.4.1 National Heritage Plan (2002) and the New National Heritage Plan (Draft 2019) A key objective of the National Heritage Plan (2002) seeks to “place heritage at the heart of public life”. The plan recognises that heritage is communal, and we all share a responsibility to protect it starting at the local level. Fundamental to this is to develop, promote and implement policies and legislation for the protection of architectural heritage and to promote best practice in modern architecture and urban design. The key objectives are to: (i) provide a policy, legislative and administrative framework to protect architectural heritage as a national resource; (ii) promote increased public awareness and appreciation of architecture and our national built heritage (iii) ensure the sustainable management of our built heritage resources. 11.4.2 Framework and Principles for the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage (1999); Policy and Guidance on Archaeological Excavation (1999) This Framework and associated principles which stipulate the basic principles for the protection of archaeological heritage are based on a presumption of avoiding development impacts on archaeological heritage. Preservation in-situ will be the first option, followed by preservation by record where the archaeological heritage is affected, or proposed to be affected by the development. Abbeyshrule - canal overflowCounty Development Plan 2021–2027 311
- 11.4.3 Government Policy on Architecture The Government Policy on Architecture 2009- 2015 and beyond recognises the place of architecture in society as an expression of cultural, aesthetic and social values both past and present. The implementation of this national Policy on Architecture and its associated 45 actions is of crucial importance to promote quality in the built environment and to provide / encourage awareness, education and sustainability on the role of architecture. A new, national Architectural Policy is currently under preparation. ‘Places for People - National Policy on Architecture’ (November 2019) is a discussion document prepared by the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. It focuses on designing for climate resilience and sustainability, designing quality places for public benefit, respecting our past, shaping our future, leadership and knowledge and Innovation. 11.4.5 The Architectural Heritage Protection Guidelines 2011 These Guidelines are issued under Section 28 and Section 52 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. Under Section 52(1), the Minister is obliged to issue guidelines to planning authorities concerning development objectives, a) for protecting structures, or parts of structures, which are of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest, and b) for preserving the character of architectural conservation areas. Guidelines issued under Section 28 of the Act require planning authorities to have regard to them in the performance of their functions. 11.4.6 The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) The NIAH is a state initiative under the administration of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and established on a statutory basis under the provisions of the Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and Historic Monuments (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1999. The purpose of the NIAH is to identify, record, and evaluate architectural heritage of Ireland, uniformly and consistently as an aid in the protection and conservation of the built heritage. NIAH surveys provide the basis for the recommendations of the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs to the planning authorities for the inclusion of particular structures in their Record of Protected Structures (RPS). The published surveys are a source of information on the selected structures for relevant planning authorities. They are also a research and educational resource. 11.4.7 Longford County Heritage Plan 2019- 2024 The County Heritage Plan is a strategic plan for the protection and enhancement of heritage within County Longford, prepared by the County Longford Heritage Forum. The Heritage Plan incorporates the County Biodiversity Action Plan and 6 no. specific objectives as follows: - 1. Implement key Strategic Actions over the lifetime of the Heritage Plan to achieve greater awareness and protection of all aspects of the heritage of County Longford. 2. Develop knowledge, appreciation and access to Longford’s heritage through research and innovation. 3. Promote the protection and best practice in heritage management within the county. 4. Promote heritage education and awareness. 5. Support organisations and communities in promoting sustainable enjoyment of Longford’s countryside, waterways and heritage. 6. Implement the County Longford Biodiversity Action Plan.Longford County Council 312
- 11.5 County Longford Built and Cultural Heritage The County has a wealth of architectural and archaeological heritage, ranging from pre-history to the 20th century. Some of the most significant visible monuments include the portal tomb at Aughnacliffe; ringforts; standing stones, an Iron Age timber roadway (toghers) at the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, and the linear earthworks that make up the Black Pigs Dyke in north Longford. The landscape also bears the remains of ecclesiastical heritage in the form of churches and abbey ruins, graveyards, pilgrim paths and holy wells. County Longford has many significant sites of built heritage, and several historic castle sites remain; the most-impressive of which is the Norman motteand-bailey castle in the town of Granard. Important country houses within the county include Castle Forbes and Carrigglas Manor which is associated with Thomas Langlois Lefroy, a paramour of Jane Austen, and the Irish architect James Gandon. A variety of industrial heritage sites reflecting the economic development of the County can be also found, including mills, bridges the canal and railways. Longford is an important location for events in Ireland’s mythology, such as An Táin Bó Cuailigne (Cattle Raid of Cooley) and Tochmairc Éitíne, (the Wooing of Étain by Midir). Several key events in Irish history took place in the county, including the Battle of Ballinamuck, the last great battle of the 1798 Rebellion. Longford is associated with General Seán Mac Eoin, a key figure in the Ireland’s War of Independence, as well as Kitty Kiernan, the fiancée of General Michael Collins. The County and the associated islands of Lough Ree host a variety of heritage and cultural features including sites of mythological, historic, archaeological, architectural, social and industrial importance. One of the most noteworthy is Inchcleraun, (or Quaker Island) which it is stated was once owned by Clothra, the sister of the great Queen Maeve, and is believed to have been the site where the great queen died. The Hill of Ardagh is an important site for the early Christian religion in the diocese. It is in believed that St. Patrick arrived in Ardagh in approximately the year 435 and secured a site for his church over which he placed his nephew St. Mel as bishop. St. Mel’s Cathedral in Longford Town, a magnificent Neo- Classical building that was beautifully renovated following a devastating fire in December 2009, is dedicated to his name. The protection of this built architectural and archaeological heritage is an essential component of this plan and is detailed accordingly. 11.6 Architectural Heritage Architectural heritage relates to monuments, groups of buildings and sites, and includes all relevant man-made structures and features of the landscape in the County; such as houses, bridges, towns, demesnes and stone walls of considered architectural heritage value. It is important that provision is made to ensure adequate protection for the built environment in its existing form and that consideration is given to the sympathetic re-use of historic buildings. Granard Masonic Hall, built 1860-1880 NIAH reg no. 13305001County Development Plan 2021–2027 313
- CPO 11.1 CPO 11.2 CPO 11.3 CPO 11.4 CPO 11.5 CPO 11.6 CPO 11.7 CPO 11.8 CPO 11.9 CPO 11.10 CPO 11.11 CPO 11.12 CPO 11.13 Architectural Heritage Policies - County Policy Objectives It is the Policy Objective of the Council to: Promote and direct users to the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) website (www.buildingsofireland.ie) wherever appropriate. Cooperate with the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage in assessing and celebrating historic designed landscapes, demesnes and gardens. Implement the County Heritage Plan 2019-2024 and seek to update the Heritage Plan over the lifetime of the County Development Plan. Promote the maintenance and appropriate re-use of the existing building stock. Ensure that all development should be appropriate to its setting in the landscape or townscape and responds to and reinforces local character and heritage. Encourage the enhancement, management, protection and the promotion of access to and understanding of the architectural heritage of the County. Recognise and protect the unique historical, mythological and cultural significance of Ardagh Mountain. Developments which materially impinge on the character of the mountain will not be permitted. Provide detailed guidance notes and continue to develop the Council’s advisory/educational role with regard to heritage matters and to promote awareness, understanding and appreciation of the architectural heritage of the County. Ensure that proposals for development to structures included as part of the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (DoEHLG) and any updated version, maintain and enhance the character of these structures. Ensure that development in the vicinity of a Recorded Monument or Zone of Archaeological Potential is sited and designed in a sensitive manner with a view to minimal detraction from the monument or its setting. Require, as part of the development management process, archaeological impact assessments, geophysical survey, test excavations or monitoring as appropriate, for development in the vicinity of monuments or in areas of archaeological potential. Where there are upstanding remains, a visual impact assessment may be required. Refer any proposed development which may impact on the integrity and/or setting of any monuments, sites, objects or areas of archaeological, cultural, architectural, historical or heritage importance under the protection of this Development Plan and/or the Department of the Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht to the relevant section of the DoAHG for observations/ comment prior to a grant of permission/approval being obtained. Ensure applications for housing developments shall include provision for the naming of estates in recognition of the cultural heritage of the area in which they are situated.Longford County Council 314
- 11.7 Record of Protected Structures and Architectural Conservation Areas 11.7.1 Protected Structures A Protected Structure is a structure that the local authority considers to be of special interest from an architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical point of view. The protection afforded to structures on the Record of Protected Structures (RPS) applies to all parts of a given structure, including: ■ the interior; ■ the land lying within its curtilage (the area of land attached to or associated with a building and usually forming one enclosure with it); ■ any other structures in that curtilage; ■ specified features in attendant grounds, and; ■ all fixtures and fittings forming part of the interior of a Protected Structure or of any structure within the curtilage. The Heritage Council interpret ‘Curtilage’ as the area of ground directly connected with the functioning or inhabitation of the structure, such as a yard, a basement or a passageway to the structure.69The Irish Statutory guidance refers to the following 3 no. considerations when determining curtilage: 1. a functional relationship between the structures 2. an historical relationship between the main structure and the structure 3. and the ownership past and present of the structure. The RPS is a live register and amendments including additions and deletions from it can be made as a result of the review of the County Development Plan under Section 12, and outside of said process under Section 55 of the Planning and Development Act (as amended). The RPS is included in Appendix 6: Built and Cultural Heritage. The placing of a structure on the RPS seeks to ensure that the character of the structure is maintained and any changes or alterations to it are carried out in such a way as to retain and enhance its character. Protected Structure status relates to protection, in relation to a structure or part of a structure, in terms of conservation, preservation, and improvement compatible with maintaining the character and interest of the structure. All owners and occupiers of Protected Structures must ensure that a Protected Structure, or any element of a Protected Structure, is not endangered through harm, decay or damage, whether over a short or long period, through neglect or through direct or indirect means. Protected Structure status does not preclude appropriate development, however, works to a Protected Structure that would materially affect the character of the structure, require planning permission. Not all works to a Protected Structure however will constitute material alterations. In these circumstances Section 57 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) enables owners/occupiers to request a declaration from the Planning Authority as to the type of works, which it considers, would or would not materially affect the character of the structure. The Council will endeavour to ensure that proposed new works to existing buildings and structures of architectural merit maintain and enhance their character and distinctiveness. In this regard the Council will seek to ensure that original doors, windows, window/shopfront detailing, and exterior plaster finishes should be retained and repaired wherever possible. Where the replacement of existing features is necessary and justified, (such as windows), these shall reflect the character of the existing structure in terms of the materials used and the architectural detailing. Timber sliding-sash windows should not be substituted with aluminium or uPVC windows. 69 The Heritage Council interprets Curtilage as follows: https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/content/files/what_is_curtilage_colm_murray. pdfCounty Development Plan 2021–2027 315
- CPO 11.14 CPO 11.15 CPO 11.16 CPO 11.17 CPO 11.18 CPO 11.19 CPO 11.20 CPO 11.21 CPO 11.22 CPO 11.23 CPO 11.24 CPO 11.25 CPO 11.26 Record of Protected Structures (RPS) Policies - County Policy Objectives It is the Policy Objective of the Council to: Review and update the Record of Protected Structures on an on-going basis and to make additions and deletions as appropriate. For the purposes of the RPS, identify and retain good examples of historic street furniture, e.g. cast-iron post boxes, water pumps, light fixtures and signage, as appropriate. Promote best conservation practice and encourage the use of appropriately qualified professional advisors, tradesmen and craftsmen, with recognised conservation expertise, for works to Protected Structures. Ensure the protection of structures included in the Record of Protected Structures by: ■ Controlling development which would alter the character of Protected Structures and proposed Protected Structures. ■ Monitoring the condition of Protected Structures and proposed protected structures to identify those endangered by neglect, vandalism or unauthorised development and taking appropriate action. ■ Preventing the endangerment of Protected Structures in the Council’s ownership. Consider the acquisition of Protected Structures, where possible and where economic constraints permit, if this is necessary to protect the structure. Encourage the rehabilitation, renovation and reuse of existing older buildings/ buildings of architectural merit, where appropriate, in preference to their demolition and redevelopment. In certain cases, land use zoning restrictions may be relaxed in order to secure the conservation of the Protected Structure. Facilitate contemporary and innovative design providing that they are of a sufficient high quality and do not detract from the character of the historic fabric of the Protected Structure. Require applications for development where a Protected Structure or its setting is likely to be materially affected, to submit a detailed assessment of the building. Protect the setting of Protected Structures and refuse permission for development within the curtilage or adjacent to a Protected Structure which would adversely impact on the character and special interest of the structure, where appropriate. Issue Declarations as to the type of works that would affect the character of a Protected Structure and therefore require planning permission. Administer the DoAHG Historic Structures Fund including the assessment of applications, ensuring that the works enhance and do not adversely affect the character of a Protected Structure and have been carried out in accordance with the conditions of the fund. Promote and support the funding sources available for Protected Structures and built heritage within the County. Identify and seek further funding for the upkeep of Protected Structures within the County.Longford County Council 316
- The Council will endeavour to ensure that proposed new works to existing buildings and structures of architectural merit maintain and enhance their character and distinctiveness. Abbeylara, Cistercian Abbey ruinsCounty Development Plan 2021–2027 317
- 11.7.2 Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA) An Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) is a place, an area, or a group of structures or townscape that is of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest or value; or it contributes to the appreciation of Protected Structures, which may be included in a Development Plan, where it is considered necessary to preserve its character. Such areas are often chosen because they contain a group of historic buildings that have a distinctive street pattern or plot size which gives the area a distinct character and contributes to the town or village wherein it is located. Most structures in an ACA are critical in how they positively contribute to the streetscape or character of an area. Although some of the individual buildings may not be of special merit, their importance is in their context and interrelationship and the contribution that each makes to the character of the area. Unless a structure is also included on the Record of Protected Structures, the protected status afforded from inclusion in an ACA only applies to the exteriors and the streetscape. Piecemeal alterations on individual non-protected structures can have a significant cumulative effect on a streetscape. Any development or works which would have a material effect on the special character of an ACA require planning permission. There are 2 no. Architectural Conservation Areas identified within the County (Ardagh town and Battery Road Longford town), the extent of the ACA’s are mapped and the details contained within Appendix 6: Built and Cultural Heritage of this plan. The identification of new ACAs and/or the modification of existing ACAs may be proposed during the lifetime of the County Development Plan. CPO 11.27 CPO 11.28 CPO 11.29 CPO 11.30 Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA) Policies - County Policy Objectives It is the Policy Objective of the Council to: Prepare and review, where necessary, detailed character statements and planning guidance for the 2 no. ACA’s in the County, within the lifetime of the Development Plan. Protect the character of Architectural Conservation Areas in County Longford and ensure the preservation of the character of the Architectural Conservation Area. Promote best conservation practice and encourage the use of appropriately qualified professional advisors, tradesmen and craftsmen, with recognised conservation expertise, for works to buildings of historic significance within Architectural Conservation Areas. Identify and designate new Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA’s) as appropriate. Drumlish MillLongford County Council 318
- 11.7.3 Historic Gardens, Demesnes and Designed Landscapes Historic designed landscapes consist of private gardens, public parks and the gardens and landscapes associated with country house demesnes. The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) in a survey (2003) of Historic Gardens and Designed landscapes, including demesnes identified 96 such sites throughout the County. In County Longford, examples of such include Carriglass, Castle Forbes, Coolamber and Newcastle House. The Council will seek to ensure that future development within such areas does not adversely affect the character of these areas or result in the deterioration of the features of special historic interest. However, the Council also recognises the modern-day responsibility being placed on guardians of these estates and the need to make them viable thus offering an effective alternative to the neglect of these estates. In this regard it is acknowledged that it is equally important to ensure that development is not restricted altogether, and that proposals for development are considered, particularly where it can be demonstrated that this could ensure the future sustainability of the estate. CPO 11.31 CPO 11.32 CPO 11.33 CPO 11.34 CPO 11.35 Historic Gardens, Demesnes and Designed Landscapes Policies - County Policy Objectives It is the Policy Objective of the Council to: Support the publication of a County Inventory of Historic Gardens and Designed Landscapes, in order to promote the intrinsic character of those within the County. Encourage the protection and enhancement of heritage gardens and demesne landscapes, and to support, in consultation with the owners, the provision of public access to these sites as appropriate. Discourage development that would adversely affect the character, the principal components of, or the setting of historic parks, gardens and demesnes of heritage significance. Require that proposals for development in designated landscapes and demesnes include an appraisal of the landscape, designed views and vistas, including a tree survey, where relevant, in order to inform site appropriate design proposals and ensure the on-going and future sustainability of the estate. Continue the development, expansion and the protection of the (Albert Reynolds Peace Park (the Mall) in Longford town. Carriglass ManorCounty Development Plan 2021–2027 319
- 11.7.4 Vernacular Architecture ‘Vernacular’ architecture are buildings and structures built in a style which developed over time unique in style to the local area without much outside influence. Buildings and structures such as post offices and post boxes; shops, timber shopfronts and sign lettering; town houses and coach houses; cottages and traditional farm buildings; and national schools and churches, all contribute much to the built heritage of the county. Vernacular architecture is the backbone of all our towns and villages. However, it is becoming increasingly rare, frequently overlooked in development applications and proposals, where demolition and new build over adaptive reuse of traditional buildings is generally the most common approach. This loss of traditional building stock is a gradual process, but the cumulative impact of losing this layer of the cultural fabric of the county’s-built heritage, is a loss of the character and erosion of the architectural integrity of the county. Historic buildings form the backdrop to most of the towns, villages and rural areas in the County. Although some may have used architects in their design, most are in the vernacular tradition – the homes and workplaces built by local people using local materials. Generally, these buildings are not so special as to be designated Protected Structures, however, small differences in materials, layout and forms contribute to local distinctiveness and the character of the area. Since the mid-1960s the landscape of our towns, villages and the rural countryside has changed significantly. Much of this built heritage has been lost, but some elements of the have survived, particularly in terms of the vernacular and built heritage of housing provided for Bord na Móna to employees. This consisted of Frank Gibney style architecture and is particular to the era and provision of housing to peat workers in a number of towns throughout the midlands. Lanesborough still maintains one of the finest examples of such housing, which is of a particular vernacular and of considerable architectural merit. This along with any other remaining remnants of this built heritage considered of particular value requires protection and much ongoing care and maintenance. New uses need to be found for traditional buildings and this may require their adaptation. The retention of the character of historic towns and villages is recognised as being a major attraction and is important in maintaining local distinctiveness for both the local community and visitor alike. CPO 11.36 CPO 11.37 CPO 11.38 CPO 11.39 CPO 11.40 CPO 11.41 Vernacular Architecture Policies – County Policy Objectives It is the Policy Objective of the Council to: Encourage the retention, sympathetic maintenance and sustainable re-use of historic buildings, including vernacular dwellings or farm buildings and the retention of historic streetscape character, fabric, detail and features. Seek the retention of surviving historic plot sizes and street patterns in the villages and towns of County Longford and incorporate ancient boundaries or layouts, such as burgage plots and townland boundaries, into re-developments. Actively promote the retention and restoration of thatched dwellings as a key component of the built heritage of the County. Create and maintain and update the survey of surviving thatched structures in the County and to promote available grant schemes to assist owners with their retention and repair. Ensure that conversions or extensions of traditional buildings or the provision of new adjoining buildings, are sensitively designed and do not detract from the character of the historic building. Encourage the retention and appropriate re-use of vernacular buildings, where appropriate and encourage the retention of the original fabric such as windows, doors and other significant features of historic buildings.Longford County Council 320
Source Longford County Council: Longford County Development Plan 2021–2027 (2021–2027) · Licence the publisher's termsText read from the publisher’s PDF; tables, maps and drawings do not survive as text, and page numbers are the PDF’s (its first page is 1). Check the original before relying on a passage.