The Department of Arts and Heritage and the Roscrea Heritage Centre are trying to prevent an apartment complex being developed beside the 12th century Roscrea Castle. Last month, Tipperary North Riding County Council granted planning permission, subject to 20 conditions, to Mr Michael Kindregan to develop 17 two-bedroom apartments and one three-bedroom apartment beside the castle.
However, plans for the development have been put on hold following an appeal to An Bord Pleanala.
In its appeal, the Department said it was concerned that investment in the national monument would be jeopardised "by an inappropriate development that might impinge on the character of the castle".
The Department also expressed concern about the demolition of old walls as part of the proposal. It states: "This structure is important to maintaining the character and aspect of the river and the street in relation to the existing castle." However, the architect of the development, Mr Michael McNamara, states that the proposal is compliant with the development plan and is in sympathy with its surroundings.
He said: "The proposal is not big and gaudy; it is of a human scale and it would be nice to see the site developed. It would definitely add to the town."
Mr McNamara claims the site is currently derelict and an eyesore. He points out that there is currently a valid planning permission for 11 houses without the condition that an archaeological survey be carried out.
He said: "I don't think the objectors realise that, if they are successful, it could result in an 11-house development going ahead without an archaeological assessment rather than the current proposal with an archaeological assessment."
A decision on the appeal is due next March.
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