The report today that Westport House is proposed to be sold by the Browne Family threatens the future of a major heritage and tourism asset.

The future of Westport should be secured by a partnership solution to secure the future and integrity of the house, grounds and contents.

An Taisce’s Heritage Officer Ian Lumley stated:

‘Public access to Westport House and grounds has been available for more than 50 years and its sale threatens a major part of heritage tourism in the region. So we want a resolution that means people can continue to view and appreciate this historical house and its grounds.'

‘The future of Westport needs a resolution which would secure the long term future of the house, grounds and woodlands and remaining amenity land. This should be based on a cooperative solution between the Browne Family, NAMA, State Heritage and Tourism Agencies and Mayo County Council.’

ENDS

Ian Lumley, An Taisce Heritage Officer Tel: +353 1 454 1786
Charles Stanley-Smith, Communications, An Taisce Tel: +353 87 241 1995
email: [email protected]
An Taisce The National Trust for Ireland
www.antaisce.org