Council backs call for plan to protect St Mullins

CARLOW County Council has unanimously adopted a motion calling for a comprehensive roadmap to protect and preserve the historic St Mullins monastery site, following concerns raised about urgent repair needs and funding challenges.

Councillor Tommy Kinsella told a recent Muinebheag Municipal District meeting that immediate remedial work is required on several key features at the site, including the penal altar and the building known as the bath house. He also highlighted the threat posed by overhanging beech trees near the monastery.

“If they fall, they will do untold damage that may never be able to be repaired,” cllr Kinsella warned, calling on the council to work with the Office of Public Works and other responsible bodies to develop a protection plan for both the buildings and natural heritage.

The councillor praised the local heritage group’s efforts but said they face difficulties accessing information from state bodies. Despite working closely with the county heritage office and applying for funding over the past two years, no grants have been secured.

Senior engineer for Carlow Council Orla Barrett confirmed the council’s strong support for the site, describing St Mullins as “an absolute gem of a location” and comparing it to renowned heritage sites like Glendalough and Clonmacnoise.

Ms Barrett outlined multiple funding streams available to the site, including heritage grants from the Department of Heritage, community monuments funding, and Town and Village grants. She noted that €130,000 had already been awarded through Town and Village funding for ongoing projects, including walkway improvements in the Pilgrim Park, new benches, and planters.

A tourism and heritage master plan was prepared for the site in 2022, and Ms Barrett said new signage is also planned. However, she emphasised the need to coordinate all programmes and secure OPW cooperation.

“Carlow Council is a hundred percent in support of driving forward this tourism and heritage master plan for the area and to try and seek all funding and join all parties,” Ms Barrett said.

With unanimous support expressed, cathaoirleach Daniel Pend declared the motion adopted.