Banner image: Dún Dealgan site Google Maps

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An Taisce repeats call for Minister for Heritage to implement Special Protection Status following planning decision affecting Cú Chulainn's Castle or Dún Dealgan.
 
Permission has now been granted by Louth County Council for a sizable housing development within the immediate environs of Dún Dealgan, a monument of national significance located at Castletown in Dundalk. 
 
An Taisce is once again calling upon the Minister for Heritage, utilising the powers conferred on him by the 2023 Historic and Archaeological Heritage and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, to grant Special Protection Status to the Dún Dealgan monument and its environs so that the proposed housing can be delivered in such a way that protects the monument and its unique and rich history. 
 
This monument, primarily a Norman Motte & Bailey built on an earlier Gaelic Irish settlement, but also featuring a Prehistorical Standing Stone, is steeped in mythology. It was mentioned in the epic Táin Bó Cúailgne saga, and indeed became synonymous with the abode of the legendary Cú Chulainn. 
 
The Council’s decision has made a number of changes to the proposal. The application had sought 1,058 dwellings – 1,025 have been approved - a reduction of 33 units. A buffer zone of 50m has been created, however, this is totally inadequate. Given that the mound (the Motte) is 10m in height, the visitor would be looking down on an encompassing housing estate, which is not in keeping with the ambience of the historical and mythological landscape. 
 
The Minister has also been requested to deny the relevant licence to conduct any works within the resulting Special Protection Archaeological and Heritage landscape. The extent of the buffer zone should then be determined within that criteria, and not on commercial values. 
 
The Minister has not yet substantively responded to An Taisce’s requests, and we call upon him to do so urgently in light of the grant of planning permission.