An attempt to delist and demolish part of a protected Georgian building in the heart of Tralee's most architecturally important street is being opposed by An Taisce.
Demolition of the annex to 18 Denny Street would pave the way for a five-storey building, according to the developers behind the plan.
It is the first time Tralee Town Council has had to consider a delisting under section 55 of the Planning Act 2000.
However, the proposal to delist the building by Fianna Fáil councillors, Mr Ted Fitzgerald and Mr Johnny Wall, was deferred recently until clearer information about the history of the building can be provided.
The councillors maintain the annex is not a significant or integral part of the building.
Mr Wall described the building as "decrepit and old". Mr Fitzgerald said demolishing it would allow for a proper structure and would enhance the whole street.
In a submission opposing the delisting, the local branch of An Taisce pointed out that a previous refusal by the council was upheld by An Bord Pleanála.
A submission by An Taisce's heritage officer, Mr Ian Lumley, has provided information to the council on the building's history.
Denny Street is a formal mall laid out in the early 19th century, of which No 18 is a substantial five bay fronted building with a side elevation facing the town park, Mr Lumley states.
Having subsidiary wings was common with late 18th and early 19th century Georgian buildings, he adds.
"However, in this case the wing not only contains service accommodation, but also rooms with substantial windows, in this case three large Wyatt windows immediately adjoining the house."
Mr Lumley said the building was listed on the grounds that the entirety of the building, including the wing, was of special architectural and historical interest.
Only a small number of residents now remain in Denny Street, Mr Tommy Foley an Independent councillor firmly opposed to the demolition, said.
"Denny Street was once the pride and joy and heart of Tralee. Now apart from a few residences, it's B&B street," he said.
Others, in addition to An Taisce, have also queried the need to delist the structure.