Property

The Built Environment unit of An Taisce took time over the summer to review the very popular database for structures at risk, which was originally released in November 2014. In this we are tracking some 120 buildings and structures at risk which were considered significant nationally and regionally and required intervention to prevent further deterioration. While there has been progress in securing certain buildings particularly in the Dublin City area, the majority of buildings recorded remain at risk and are becoming increasingly lost.

A new National Planning Framework entitled, ‘Ireland 2040’, is currently being developed by the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government. This is intended to succeed the National Spatial Strategy. It will provide a framework for national planning, pulling together relevant Government policies and investment on national and regional development. The focus will be on economic development and investment in housing, water services, transport, communications, energy, health and education infrastructure.

Why are we mad about Mongan Bog? Here’s why!

Mongan bog has the reputation for being one of the oldest, best-preserved raised bogs in Western Europe, and home to an array of flora and fauna. It can be considered perhaps one of the most significant bogs, not just in Ireland but also Europe and globally.

What is a Development Plan?

An Taisce have today written to Fingal Council to take urgent action to protect the 18th century house at Belcamp.

This morning’s major fire occurred to the important 18th century house at Belcamp. The house formed part of Belcamp College School since the late 19th century. The building has been vacant since the closure of the school and acquisition by developer Gerry Gannon a decade ago.

Our treasure trove of nature, Booterstown Marsh underwent its annual Spring Clean last month. For a suburban marsh we were glad to see there had been no major fly tipping or dumping which has blighted this treasure trove of nature in the past. Nevertheless, an afternoon at the job and with a troupe of nearly 20 volunteers we gave the marsh a good tidy up. Between the clean-ups in October and April some 50 bags of rubbish were removed from the marsh, protecting the many birds that live there from harm and improving its appearance. Many thanks to all volunteers who came out and got stuck in.