COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

A partnership plan prepared by the County Sligo Heritage Forum

COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

A partnership plan prepared by the County Sligo Heritage Forum

Acknowledgements
The County Sligo Heritage Forum wishes to acknowledge the role of the Heritage Council in initiating this Heritage Plan in association with Sligo County Council. Sligo County Council and the County Sligo Heritage Forum also acknowledges the support of the Heritage Council through the funding of the Heritage Officer post in association with Sligo County Council. Sligo County Council 2007 Thanks to: Siobhn Ryan, Barbara Dobson, Sharon Eastwood, Mark Keane, Niamh Lavin, Dara N Cheallaigh, Mark Harrigan, Bartley Gavin and Janie Crone of Janie Crone Associates for facilitating consultation meetings. Cover: Ballynagalliagh, Co. Sligo. Photo: Mark Keane Photography by: Don Cotton, RSPB Images, Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government, Mark Keane, Vince Vidal, Lisa McDaniel, Siobhn Ryan, R.S. Thompson & Sligo County Council. Design: Martin Corr at Red Eye Design. Print: Turner Print Group Longford. Publisher: County Sligo Heritage Office. ISBN: 978-0-9555653-0-4 For further information contact: County Sligo Heritage Office County Hall Sligo County Council Riverside Sligo Tel: 071 91 11226/91 11255 Email: heritage@sligococo.ie

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Contents
Acknowledgements 01 02 03 04 05 A B C D E F 06 Foreword Introduction Actions Implementing the Plan Appendices Membership of the County Sligo Heritage Forum Process of formulating the plan List of written submissions received Attendance at public consultation events Heritage legislation List of actions relating to biodiversity Glossary 02 05 09 15 21 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 33

Opposite page: Sligo Abbey. A ruined Dominican friary, it was originally built in 1253 by Maurice Fitzgerald. Photo: DEHLG

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01

Foreword

COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

A Message from the Cathaoirleach

As Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, I am proud to be associated with the publication of the County Sligo Heritage Plan 2007-2011, which is our second County Plan. Through the work of the County Sligo Heritage Forum and the County Sligo Heritage Office we have seen Sligo County Councils involvement in the provision of Heritage Services grow and deepen. This development of Heritage Services at county level has occurred in the context of the Councils Corporate Plan, The County Development Boards Strategic Plan and the Development Plans that are now in place for the County. Heritage is important, and includes everything that we have inherited from our past, and want to maintain for our future. Sligo has an exceptionally rich and diverse heritage, and it is this heritage that makes our county special. The objectives and actions outlined in the plan are the result of extensive consultation with individuals, community groups, agencies and indeed all who have an interest in conserving Sligos heritage. The plan will seek to strengthen existing partnerships and to forge new ones for Sligos heritage and for the benefit of the people of Sligo. Over the last five years the Heritage Forum and the County Sligo Heritage Office have worked hard to provide a positive mechanism for the Council to engage with the community in relation to heritage and the importance of heritage in the economic, social and cultural development of the county is being nurtured and recognised. In essence, heritage provides the space for our community to live and work, it is about quality of life. In supporting the implementation of this plan, Sligo County Council aspires to improve the quality of life of the citizens of Sligo. We wish to promote an appreciation and understanding of heritage in the community and to provide opportunities to know, value and care for the heritage of our beautiful county. The importance of heritage to the people of Sligo is demonstrated by the many active heritage groups and organisations in the county. On behalf of the council, I would like to acknowledge the contribution they made to the implementation of the first County Heritage Plan from 2002 2006. This new plan will seek to strengthen those links and partnerships for the benefit of Sligos heritage and I look forward to seeing many successful projects over the coming years in which local communities work with the council, government and other agencies in managing our local heritage. I would like to congratulate and thank all those who participated in the process of preparing the plan, particularly all those who made submissions or attended meetings. Your participation and involvement is invaluable. I would also like to thank the Heritage Forum for their hard work in preparing the plan. I look forward to the implementation of the actions outlined in the plan, which will have the full support of the Council.
Cllr. Jimmy McGarry Cathaoirleach Sligo County Council

Cllr. Jimmy McGarry Cathaoirleach Sligo County Council

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COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

Message from the County Manager

I am delighted to welcome the County Sligo Heritage Plan 2007 2011. It sets out in broad terms the direction that Sligo County Council, in association with its partners proposes to take in further developing its heritage services for the people of Sligo. Sligo has a very special identity, founded on a unique heritage comprising its landscape, built and natural heritage, and its cultural heritage. A heritage which makes Sligo a very attractive place in which to live and work. Our county is developing at an unprecedented level, underpinned by economic growth, the National Development Plan and National Spatial Strategy. Sligo is experiencing a renaissance that is expressed most tangibly in Sligos development as a Gateway City. This focuses our attention on the development of Sligo, as a County, the identity of our county and how that is to be developed in the future. Our Heritage has a huge contribution to make in informing that discussion and in being the resource and cultural strength upon which we can continue to draw and build. We have seen the value of planning locally for our heritage, through the successful implementation of the first County Sligo Heritage Plan 2002 2006, as guided by the County Sligo Heritage Forum. This has laid the ground for the Councils involvement in delivering a heritage service to the people of Sligo and we look forward to building on this in the new five year plan. I am delighted that Sligo County Council was one of the first Local Authorities in Ireland to take up the challenge of developing a heritage service at county level in partnership with the Heritage Council. We have benefited from that partnership and look forward to strengthening our links with the relevant agencies and individuals in seeking the delivery of this ambitious five year programme. The Plan will be supported and facilitated by the Council in its implementation over the next five years and we are committed to improving the quality of life of the people we serve. We recognise that local heritage management is founded on participation by the community, Local Authority, Government, professional bodies, NGOs, business and farming sector and individuals. We have provided a space for all those interested or responsible for heritage to come together to plan a strategy of practical action for the benefit of Sligos heritage. Sligo County Council is proud to be part of that process. I would like to thank all the members of the Heritage Forum who gave their time generously and worked hard to draft this plan, and to all who made submissions. I look forward to the implementation of the plan which will bring significant benefits for our heritage and for the people of Sligo. Our continued support is assured.
Hubert Kearns County Manager Sligo County Council

Hubert Kearns County Manager Sligo County Council

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COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

A message from the Chairperson of the County Sligo Heritage Forum

As Chairperson of the County Sligo Heritage Forum, it is a great honour for me to be associated with this publication, the second County Heritage Plan for Sligo. Sligos heritage forges a strong link with the people of our county through its landscape, natural, cultural and built heritage. The Heritage Forum collectively recognises that our shared heritage resource needs careful management and planning to ensure its future protection and enhancement. Since the formation of the County Sligo Heritage Forum in April 2001, an enormous amount of work has been achieved. Much of the progress made to date is the product of a process which has sought to involve individuals, community groups and agencies in caring for our countys heritage. Since the adoption of the first Sligo Heritage Plan in 2002, the Heritage Forum, supported by the Heritage Office, has made significant progress through the collection of heritage data, promoting best practice, heritage management and raising awareness of our countys heritage for all. The County Sligo Heritage Plan 2007-2011, sees the Heritage Forum building on firm foundations towards the future management of heritage in our county. The Heritage Forum has always focussed on action and practical implementation and this central tenet has been brought forward into the new Plan. The aim of the Heritage Forum is Working with the community to know, value and care for Sligos heritage and to increase awareness, appreciation and enjoyment of our heritage for all. The Heritage Forum will in particular seek to promote partnerships for and participation in Sligos heritage over the next five years. On behalf of the Heritage Forum, I would like to sincerely thank all who contributed to this Plan, it is hoped that they will see their vision, ideas and enthusiasm reflected in this, the second heritage plan for our county. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the members of the Heritage Forum who have assisted whole-heartedly in bringing this plan to fruition. The energy and commitment which each Forum member brings to the process has brought the successes to date. The Heritage Forum is supported and guided by the Heritage Office and on behalf of the Forum I would like to acknowledge the work and assistance of the staff of the Heritage Office. The support of Sligo County Council and the Heritage Council in providing support for the development and implementation of the Heritage Plan is also acknowledged. Knowing, valuing and caring for our shared heritage is the focus for the next five years. This Heritage Plan is for the benefit of all who live and work in our county and on behalf of the Heritage Forum, I encourage you to get involved and to share in the many benefits that a strong and vibrant heritage can bring to our county.
Cllr. Patsy Barry Chairperson of the County Sligo Heritage Forum

Cllr. Patsy Barry Chairperson of the County Sligo Heritage Forum

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02

Introduction

COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

Defining Heritage
Heritage encompasses many things. It embraces all that is considered our inheritance, our identity, our culture. But trying to shape and define our definition of heritage for Sligo is important in the context of scarce resources, prioritising action and ultimately making progress for heritage at local level. The Heritage Act (1995), defines heritage as including the following; monuments, archaeological objects, heritage objects, architectural heritage, flora, fauna, wildlife habitats, landscapes, seascapes, wrecks, geology, heritage gardens and parks and inland waterways.
Above: Decorative Gate at Sligo Grammar School, The Mall, Sligo. Photo: Sligo County Council Previous Page : An aerial view of the cashel at Crockacullion/Larkhill, Co.Sligo. Photo: DEHLG

opportunity available to promote the Irish language through the delivery of the Heritage Plan will be availed of, particularly regarding place names.

Heritage in Context - National & Local

The National Heritage Plan (2002) outlines the Governments strategy for heritage. It recognizes that conservation and management of our heritage plays an essential part in maintaining quality of life and that it also brings economic, social and cultural benefits to society. The National Heritage Plan highlights the preparation of Local Heritage plans, the establishment of Heritage Fora and the appointment of Heritage Officers as key delivery mechanisms for National heritage policy at local level. The Governments strategy for biodiversity, outlined in the National Biodiversity Plan (2002) also looks for the development of biodiversity action plans to be facilitated at local level by Local Authorities. Local Authorities are asked to nominate a Natural Heritage Contact Officer and in many cases this falls to the Heritage Officer, where they exist. Both the National Heritage Plan and the National Biodiversity Plan recognize the role of Local Authorities in leading, supporting and developing the economic, social and cultural development of a county. In this regard, Sligo County Council is perfectly placed as a key partner to facilitate and support heritage development at local level. At local level, the Sligo County Development Board prepared, An Integrated Economic, Social and Cultural Strategy for County Sligo 2002-2012, which sets out a shared vision for the economic, social and cultural development of the County. The strategy emphasises the

In a Sligo context, that definition of heritage was broadened as part of the County Sligo Heritage Plan 2002-2006 to include, place names and folklore. During the consultation phase for the County Sligo Heritage Plan 20072011, it was proposed that the following aspects of cultural heritage would also be included, namely, crafts and traditional skills, museums and archives and local history and traditions. It is recognised that there is an overlap between what has been defined as traditional arts and elements of cultural heritage. Matters relating to Irish traditional arts fall within the remit of the Arts Council and the County Sligo Arts Office, as outlined in Towards a Policy for the Traditional Arts (Arts Council, September 2004), the special committee on the traditional arts agreed a definition of Irish traditional arts, which includes: traditional music, song and dance and oral arts such as storytelling and agallamh beirte. Promotion of Irish is not a direct function of the County Heritage Plan, but rather an ancillary one. Sligo County Council appointed a part - time Irish Officer in Autumn 2006 to progress policy in relation to Irish. However, every

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2007-2011

importance of promoting cultural heritage. It also emphasises the need for sustainable development and environmental protection. The heritage element of the cultural strategy has been delivered by the County Sligo Heritage Plan 2002 2006, and will continue to be delivered through the County Sligo Heritage Plan 2007 2011. The Sligo County Development Plan 2005-2011, is the legal and strategic land use management plan for the county. It is the primary context within which decisions relating to management of the heritage resource are made daily. The Heritage Plan is neither statutory nor legally binding, but has a clear and important underpinning and supporting role for the County Development Plan. The actions undertaken through the Heritage Plan seek to increase our knowledge and inform management of the heritage resource, thereby strategically informing the policies of the County Development Plan and the decision making process that flows from it. As such, the Heritage plan has a valuable and important role in that regard. The Heritage Plan also promotes the principle of local community involvement which is at the heart of Local Agenda 21.

conservation, while recognizing that it is neither possible nor desirable to conserve everything. Managing heritage resources in an informed way is essentially sustainable development. Heritage is managed at a national and local level, in different ways by various organisations. Providing a platform for heritage to be articulated, developed and facilitated at county level, is the strength of a Heritage Plan. The Heritage Plan is complementary to, and a link between existing initiatives. It is a delivery mechanism for action at county level and looks to address the opportunities and gaps in the local heritage environment. The nature of the Heritage plan is that it can be adaptive and responsive to local needs and may be in a position to carry out actions that others cannot at local level.

Above: Banada Bridge, Co. Sligo. A fivespan stone bridge built c.1820 with uncoursed rubble limestone walling rising to form parapets. The bridge spans north south over the River Moy. Photo: Sligo County Council

Managing Heritage Locally

Heritage management is the process of making conscious and informed decisions about the future of our heritage. Decisions in relation to what aspects of heritage should be kept and what are expendable are informed by our values and our understanding of the heritage resource. We cannot predict what will be valued in the future, so we can only move forward ensuring that our decisions faithfully reflect our own values, and are informed by a clear understanding of our heritage. There is a need to balance the need for change with the desire for reasonable

Delivery Mechanisms at County Level

Faced with the broader cultural development of the county and the provision of cultural services to the citizens of Sligo, Sligo County Council has, since 2001, facilitated the establishment of heritage structures to provide for the management of heritage at local level. In April 2001, the County Sligo Heritage Forum was established by Sligo County Council. The Forum is an advisory group which prepares and oversees

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COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

Formulating the Heritage Plan

The Heritage Plan has been formulated by the County Sligo Heritage Forum. It builds on the successes and learning of the first County Sligo Heritage Plan 2002-2006 and represents a further deepening of the role of the Heritage Forum in shaping and contributing to the local heritage agenda. The Plan is not statutory or aspirational, it is a five-year work plan. The actions that are set out are realistic and achievable within the specified timeframe. It seeks to co-ordinate heritage activity within the county to deliver benefits for Sligos heritage. The actions put forward in the Plan reflect local priorities. To ensure that the wider community of Sligo was meaningfully engaged in the development of the Plan, extensive public consultations were held during May-June 2006. Opinion was sought from organizations and individuals on the priorities for heritage in Sligo for the next five years. The process of formulating the Plan and the attendance at public consultations undertaken are outlined in appendices B to D respectively. A report summarising the issues raised during the public consultation phase has informed the drafting of the Plan (Crone, 2006). The implementation of the first Heritage Plan 2002-2006 has shaped our understanding and expectations regarding the role and function of a Heritage Plan and its relationship with other policy and strategy documents. A number of actions which were not delivered through the first plan have been brought forward for inclusion into the draft County Sligo Heritage Plan 2007-2011 where appropriate. Actions which were listed in the first Heritage Plan 2002-2006, but which were outside the scope of delivery for the Plan have not been brought forward for inclusion in the new Plan. These are as follows:

Above: Ballindoon Abbey. A Dominican foundation, known as St. Marys Priory which was begun in 1507 by Thomas OFarrell. Photo: DEHLG

the implementation of the Heritage Plan, and is supported by the Heritage Office, Sligo County Council. The Heritage Forum represents a partnership between all the relevant stakeholders representing, local government, development agencies, the farming sector, government agencies, the community sector and heritage groups. The Forum guided the development of the first County Sligo Heritage Plan 2002-2006, which prioritised and undertook action for heritage through consensus and partnership. The plan recognised that there are many other agencies, groups and individuals working to progress heritage in the county, but that there was a real opportunity to strengthen existing initiatives and to address other areas that were not or could not be attended to within existing frameworks. It is proposed to broaden the membership of the County Sligo Heritage Forum, to assist in the implementation of the County Sligo Heritage Plan 2007-2011 and also to establish working groups for the areas of natural, built, archaeological and cultural heritage. The working groups will oversee the implementation and delivery of key actions during the lifetime of the Plan.

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COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

Left: Whorled Caraway Carum verticullatum in a meadow at Cloontyprocklis, Grange, Co. Sligo. Photo: Don Cotton

Commission Landscape Character Assessment (LCA)

A detailed landscape characterisation and appraisal study was commissioned by Sligo County Council and completed by CAAS Environmental Consultants in 1997. This resulted in a Development Control Policy Map, which formed part of the Sligo County Development Plan 1999-2004. The map classifies the county according to its visual sensitivity and ability to absorb new development without compromising the scenic character of the area. It indicates, inter alia, designated; normal rural landscapes, sensitive rural landscapes, visually vulnerable areas and scenic routes. In this context it is considered that an LCA already exists for the county and that opportunities to enhance it in future reviews of the County Development Plan will be availed of, based on development control experience and new data sources.

Heritage Officer. The County Sligo Heritage Forum recommends the consolidation of the heritage programme through providing for a permanent County Sligo Heritage Office, with appropriate staffing and funding levels. The Heritage Forum also recognises that the appointment of a County Archaeologist, Conservation Officer and Archivist are essential for the management of heritage at county level. The Heritage Forum considers that it is beyond the scope of the Heritage Plan to deliver such heritage appointments. The Heritage Forum, however, will continue to monitor opportunities for such appointments to be made and will advocate for and support Sligo County Council in realising these heritage objectives as opportunity may provide.

A Strategy for Biodiversity

In responding to the requirement of the National Biodiversity Plan 2002 for biodiversity issues to be addressed at local level, a number of actions for biodiversity have been included in the Plan. These biodiversity actions are brought together in appendix F and constitute the basis of a biodiversity strategy for the county. In order for these actions to be progressed it is recognised that a Biodiversity Working Group and Biodiversity Project Officer will be needed to deliver a biodiversity programme for the county.

Providing Heritage Expertise at County Level

Significant progress has been made in facilitating heritage development at County Level through the County Sligo Heritage Forum and the adoption and implementation of the first County Sligo Heritage Plan 2002-2006. This work has been supported and facilitated by Sligo County Council through the establishment of the Heritage Office and the appointment of a

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2007-2011

Top Left: Butterflies on Ragwort. Photo: Mark Keane Bottom Right: Dune management at Shelly Valley, Strandhill, Co. Sligo. Photo: Lisa McDaniel Opposite Page: Bluebells at Barnaribbon. Photo: Mark Keane

tive objectives, provides the framework to enable us to measure progress, and defines the actions needed to achieve them. It reflects common purpose, and agreed action. It will require partnership and participation if the actions are to be fulfilled. Implementation of the Plan will be overseen by the Heritage Forum and appropriate working groups, which will be supported and co-ordinated by the Heritage Office.

Content of the Plan

The aim of the County Sligo Heritage Forum is, Working with the community to know, value and care for Sligos heritage and to increase awareness, appreciation and enjoyment of our heritage for all. Four strategic themes have been established to facilitate structured heritage development over the next five years. These themes are; Heritage information Best practice in heritage conservation and management Awareness and education Promoting partnership and participation The County Sligo Heritage Plan 2007-2011 sets out 63 actions to be delivered within a five year period to support the implementation of the strategic themes. The Plan defines our collec-

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03

Actions

COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

THE AIM OF THE COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE FORUM IS:

Working with the community to know, value and care for Sligos heritage and to increase awareness, appreciation and enjoyment of our heritage for all
THE FOLLOWING PLAN STRUCTURE HAS BEEN ADOPTED
Above: Blue Eyed Grass, Sisyrinchium bermudiana is a kind of iris that is very local in wet meadows in Glencar from where it has been known since 1904. In Ireland, it is a native plant confined to western counties and is listed in the Red Data Book but is not afforded any protection. It is absent as a native species in Great Britain. Photo: Don Cotton

Strategic Themes
These have been established to facilitate structured heritage development over the next five years. These articulate broad statements of intent, which will define the work of the County Sligo Heritage Forum and the Heritage Office.

Policies
Which identify the means to support each strategic theme.

Actions
Will be initiated to realise the policies identified.

THE FOLLOWING STRATEGIC THEMES HAVE BEEN ADOPTED

Heritage Information To advise on, promote and contribute to the development of a comprehensive heritage database for Sligo, and to ensure the effective use of heritage data in policy formulation and decision making in the County. Best Practice in Heritage Conservation and Management To promote, and advise on, best practice standards for heritage conservation and management among key stakeholders and practitioners. Awareness and Education To facilitate and strengthen the awareness, understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of Sligos Heritage. Promoting Partnership and Participation To promote greater co-operation and co-ordination between all sectors of society for the benefit of heritage in Sligo.

The following actions are arranged under four themes, Heritage Information, Best Practice in Heritage Conservation and Management, Awareness and Education and Promoting Partnership and Participation. Within each theme, actions have been organized into several groups to facilitate implementation. Grouping actions in this way will facilitate co-operation and co-ordination between working groups, so that projects and issues can be addressed in an integrated way. The working group(s) proposed to address the actions outlined below are indicated beside that action.

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1.0 HERITAGE INFORMATION

Audit existing sources of heritage information 1.1 Survey all existing sources of information in relation to architectural heritage.

Conduct surveys to fill information gaps 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 Support the National Monuments Section of the DEHLG in the completion of the archaeological inventory for Co. Sligo and encourage research with and dissemination of the survey data gathered. Survey and record traditional skills and crafts in Co. Sligo. Continue work with Sligo Local Authorities to encourage the development of the Record of Protected Structures through conducting architectural inventories of e.g. street furniture, Yeats buildings and vernacular architecture. Carry out a historic burial grounds survey. Carry out a place name survey and develop a database accessible to the public. Continue mapping habitats of conservation concern. e.g. trees, hedgerow, wetland, semi-natural woodland and landscape features of ecological value. Conduct surveys for species of conservation concern.

Provide access to heritage data and information 1.9 Develop a County Heritage website to ensure that databases and heritage information are available online (including heritage activity at county level).

1.10 Ensure that heritage information is available and accessible through the County Library service. Encourage public participation in gathering and recording heritage information 1.11 1.12 1.13 Facilitate a community graveyard memorial recording scheme. Develop a programme to record local history and folklore. Promote the gathering of place name information throughout the county.

1.14 Support the participation of individuals and the community in recording heritage data, natural, built and cultural.

Natural

Archaeological

Architectural

Cultural

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2.0 BEST PRACTICE IN HERITAGE CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT

Audit existing sources of heritage information 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9 Raise awareness and provide training where appropriate, of existing heritage legislation and enforcement measures. Continue to promote integrated conservation planning and sustainable development at County level through heritage appraisal of development plans. Continue to support the development of a County Museum. Continue to implement the Field Monument Awareness Programme. Support the development of Coastal Zone Management Plan & Indicative Forestry Strategy by Sligos Local Authorities. Support the development and implementation of appropriate maintenance of graveyards in the county through training, in partnership with the community. Facilitate adoption & implementation of recommendations arising from conservation plans undertaken in Co. Sligo. Support the development of a county archives policy by the County Library Service. Support the publication and consultation of draft Management Plans for Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the DEHLG.

2.10 Establish a place names committee. 2.11 2.12 2.13 Promote awareness, care and maintenance of built heritage, particularly by owners of buildings on the Record of Protected Structures through seminars. Explore opportunities for establishing a fund for maintenance & care of built heritage in Local Authority ownership. Develop a Local Biodiversity Action Plan for Sligo.

2.14 Record biological data in partnership with the National Biodiversity Data Centre. 2.15 Promote appropriate hedgerow management through provision of information, policy and training.

2.16 Liaise with agencies with responsibility for the protection of heritage at county level to provide contact details/clarify areas of responsibility in leaflet form. To increase the level of heritage expertise in the County 2.17 Support communities, organisations, networks and professional bodies that promote best practice and sustainable management of heritage through training.

2.18 Continue to provide appropriate heritage training opportunities for Local Authority staff. 2.19 Support traditional building skills training through seminars and exhibitions. To promote community involvement & heritage networks in the management of heritage 2.20 Conduct research to identify community heritage needs, to enable an effective & targeted response to those needs. 2.21 Continue to recognise and support community involvement in heritage through an annual community heritage grant scheme.

Natural

Archaeological

Architectural

Cultural

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Enhance the role of the planning process in relation to Heritage 2.22 Assist with integration of heritage policy and advice into development plans. 2.23 Co-operate with relevant sections of Sligo County Council to develop heritage policies where relevant. 2.24 Develop appropriate guidance to ensure that heritage issues are highlighted and considered during the development consent process particularly regarding archaeology and built heritage. 2.25 Support the Forward Planning Section of Sligo County Council in the production of house design and siting guidelines.

3.0 AWARENESS AND EDUCATION

Promote Sligos heritage 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 Work with local media (print and radio) to raise awareness of Sligos heritage, through regular heritage slots. Create a Sligo Heritage Forum logo. Develop heritage e-zine (web based magazine). Hold annual heritage seminar. Hold annual biodiversity day. Actively engage with the tourism sector in the promotion of heritage in County Sligo.

Raise the level of heritage awareness 3.7 3.8 3.9 Increase participation in Heritage Week, particularly by supporting family days. Conduct a heritage awareness survey. Develop a heritage awareness programme in partnership with elected members.

Facilitate heritage awareness and participation through education and training 3.10 Promote the Heritage in Schools scheme at primary level. 3.11 3.12 3.13 Build on report Audit of Heritage Education in Sligo (2004), by holding a seminar on heritage education in the county and implementing the recommendations. Provide advice and support heritage training initiatives for community groups and individuals. Provide advice and support training initiatives for owners of protected structures.

Increase access to heritage 3.14 Audit access to heritage in County Sligo, to include walking routes and heritage sites, with a view to improving signage and access to selected sites. 3.15 3.17 Audit heritage sites, both natural and built, in public ownership. Develop a standardised approach to heritage and place name signage. 3.16 Enhance existing access to heritage with signposting and maintenance, where appropriate, to selected sites. 3.18 Develop a scheme to provide for the development and renewal of information panels at key heritage sites.

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4.0 PROMOTING PARTNERSHIP AND PARTICIPATION

Promoting partnership and participation 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 Encourage and facilitate the development of partnerships for heritage amongst existing networks (Community Forum, farming groups, community, heritage groups and the youth). Support the development of a County Sligo Heritage Network. Promote co-operation between agencies with responsibility for heritage conservation and protection at county level. Promote strategic co-ordination between Local Authority Cultural Services Promote strategic heritage partnerships with other Local Authorities and cross border agencies where applicable. Liaise with IT Sligo and other third level institutions in the development of heritage research at county level.

Natural

Archaeological

Architectural

Cultural

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04

Implementing the Plan

COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

2007-2011

The Heritage Plan is a five-year work plan. The Sligo Heritage Forum, Sligo County Council and the Heritage Council are key partners in the delivery of the plan and the Heritage Officer will in many cases act as co-ordinator for projects. This is the second Heritage Plan for Sligo.
Timeframe
The Plan sets out actions for the five-year period 2007-2011. Each year a detailed work programme will be drawn up from the actions in this Plan, which will be submitted to the Heritage Council and other funding agencies as a strategic funding application. When the annual budget is confirmed the annual work programme will be produced in consultation with the Heritage Forum and the working groups. The annual plan will detail the projects proposed for the year, the partners, timeframe and the body responsible for delivery.
Right: The Butter Boat, Streedagh, Co. Sligo. Photo: Mark Keane Previous Page: An Oak tree reflected in the waters of Lough Gill, Co. Sligo. Photo: Vince Vidal

Finance
A budget of 850,000 (excluding staff costs), is estimated for the delivery of the Plan over the five year period. The aim is to realise an annual budget of 170,000. The Heritage Council has agreed in principle to consider the Plan as a five year strategic funding application, consistent with normal funding criteria. The Heritage Council will consider funding aspects of the Plan that are compatible with the objectives of the Heritage Council. The Heritage Council have established a separate funding mechanism for the continued support of the Field Monument Advisor (FMA) Scheme across Ireland. Therefore funding applications for the Field Monument Advisor programme will be direct to the Heritage Council and will not form part of the annual Heritage Plan funding application as has been the case to date. Sligo County Council has agreed to support the delivery of the Plan by supporting the work of the Heritage Forum, by contributing direct funding for the implementation of the Plan and by continuing to support heritage programming

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through the Heritage Office, subject to normal budgetary constraints. The Heritage Office is central to supporting the work of the Heritage Forum and the delivery of the Plan. In that regard, the Heritage Office will continue to seek consolidation of existing staff, provision for ongoing staff training and development, and appropriate levels of funding from Sligo County Council. Throughout the delivery of the Plan, formal approaches for support and funding will be made to key partners to enable implementation of the actions identified. The National Heritage Plan (2002) indicates that 12.7 m will be made available over a five -year period for the implementation of Local Heritage Plans. The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is aware of the preparation of County Heritage Plans nationally, but to date has made no allocation to support them. It is hoped that funds will be released to support County Heritage Plans.

work programme will detail the projects to be undertaken and the partners involved in their delivery. The Heritage Forum will monitor the annual work programme and progress will be evaluated at regular intervals.
Left: Irish Damselfly, Coenagrion lunulatum. The first Irish record of this rare species was from County Sligo in 1982 and it is now known from three places in the county. It is absent from Great Britain. Photo: R.S. Thompson

Partners
As the annual work programme is agreed, commitments will be obtained from relevant partners. The commitment of the other key partners will be dependent on the annual funding allocations and their remit. The lead partners will be highlighted for each action when the annual priorities are agreed. However, it is hoped that local groups and other organisations not listed will become active partners in the implementation of the many actions of the plan. Opportunities to foster co-operation with adjoining Local Authorities, the border counties and Northern Ireland will be availed of in implementing the Heritage Plan.

Monitoring and Evaluation

The County Sligo Heritage Plan 2007-2011, provides the framework for the implementation of key actions for the next five years. The annual

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Opposite Page: Markree Suspension Bridge. A wrought-iron suspension footbridge, erected c. 1840 spans the Unshin River to the south of Markree Castle. This attractive and unusual bridge displays a high level of technical skill and craftsmanship in its construction. Photo: Vince Vidal

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05

Appendices

COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

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APPENDIX A MEMBERSHIP OF THE COUNTY HERITAGE FORUM (JANUARY 2007)

Cllr. Patsy Barry (Chairperson)
Elected Representative, Sligo County Council

Brendan Carolan/Fionnuala Meagher

Planning, Sligo County Council

Sean Martin
Senior Exec. Architect, Sligo Borough Council

Michael Quigley
CEO Sligo Leader

Martin Henry
CEO Teagasc

Celine Walsh
Archaeologist, DEHLG, National Monuments Section

Joe Gatins/Tim Roderick

Regional Manager, DEHLG, National Parks and Wildlife Service

Tim Hynes
Coillte

Patricia Curran-Mulligan
Lecturer, IT Sligo

Teresa Gilligan
Farming Sector

Therisia Roddy
Farming Sector

Larry Mullin
Community Forum
Above: Batchelors Building, The Quays, Sligo. A four-storey reinforcedconcrete former maize mill and grain silo, built in 1905. Photo: Sligo County Council

Fiona Dunleavey
Community Forum

Aidan Mannion
Heritage Groups

Caroline Sheil
Heritage Groups

Larry Kelly
FS

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APPENDIX B PROCESS OF FORMULATING THE PLAN

Month
Feb 2006 May 2006

Date
16th Feb 3rd May 4th May 10th May 11th May 11th May 11th - 16th May 13th May 18th May 23rd May 30th May 31st May

Action
County Sligo Heritage Forum Meeting Public Consultation Commences (Phase 1) Specialist interest workshop - Natural Heritage Specialist interest workshop - Built Heritage Specialist interest workshop - Cultural Heritage County Sligo Heritage Forum Meeting Local Radio Advertising Community/Public Notices Community Heritage Workshop Sligo City Community Heritage Workshop Grange Community Heritage Workshop - Ballymote Community Heritage Workshop - Easkey End of Public Consultation (Phase 1) Council Staff Workshop Sligo County Council Council Staff Workshop Sligo Borough Council Production of Heritage Issues Report / Production of draft Heritage Plan 2007 - 2011

June 2006

22nd June 23rd June

July 2006 13th July Aug 2006 Sept 2006 31st August 12th Sept 25th Sept Oct 2006 9th Oct 18th Oct Nov 2006 15th Nov 23rd Nov

Update to Strategic Policy Committee (SPC 1) on preparation of Draft Heritage Plan County Sligo Heritage Forum Meeting Presentation of draft Heritage Plan to Senior Management Team of Sligo County Council Presentation of draft Heritage Plan to Strategic Policy Committee (SPC 1) Sligo County Council Presentation of draft Heritage Plan to Sligo County Council Start of Public Consultation on draft Heritage Plan 2007 - 2011 (Phase 2) End of Public Consultation on draft Heritage Plan 2007 - 2011 (Phase 2) County Sligo Heritage Forum Meeting to consider final draft of Heritage Plan 2007 - 2011 Presentation of final draft Heritage Plan 2007 2011 to Sligo County Council for adoption.

Dec 2006

11th Dec

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COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

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APPENDIX C LIST OF WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED

Declan Feeney North Western Regional Fisheries Board Mark Keane Sligo Field Club/Bird Watch Ireland Brian Scanlon Barry Egan Enterprise Ireland Paddy Egan Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd. Michael Mulligan Sligo Mountaineering Club Rita McFadden Doorly Park and Martin Savage Residents Association Kate Bell Albanne Tourism Ltd. Patricia Mulligan Carrowmore/Coolera Residents Association Joyce Enright Sligo Field Club Committee Aleck Crichton Yeats Society Christina Fredengren Lake Settlement Project, The Discovery Programme John OConnell Ballymote Margaret Heffernan Rosses Point Mary Willis Beltra Francis OKeeffe Rosses Point Jane Andrews Sligo Hugh McConville/Peigin Doyle Strandhill Beatrice McDonald /Sheila Gallagher Hazelwood/Calry Jim Hickey Mullaghmore Henry Rowan Sligo County Council Martin Timoney Research Archaeologist, Keash Christ Spvorenberg Ballintogher Eilo Molloy Drumcliffe Chris & Margaret Kelly Ballintogher Joe McGowan Co. Sligo Sidhe Gaoithe Mummers Miriam Crowley NPWS, DEHLG Paul Money Carney David Poole Raghly Hubert Kearns Co. Manager, Sligo County Council Banada Development Agency Ltd. Banada, Sligo Joyce Enright Consultant Archaeologist/Wild Rose Tours Eoin Halpin Consultant Archaeologist Willie Cumming Senior Architect, National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, DEHLG Ray Cawley Cecily Gilligan Ballintogher Community Development Association Margaret Farrell Dr. Matthew Parkes Mining Heritage Trust of Ireland Joe Gowran Patrick OBrien Sligo Field Club Ulrike Schwier Martin Wilson Frances Heaslip Co-ordination Unit DCMNR Sarah Gately Geological Survey of Ireland Tim Roderick District Conservation Officer, NPWS, DEHLG Peter Osborne Ann Harrison

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COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

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APPENDIX D ATTENDANCE AT PUBLIC CONSULATION EVENTS Attendance at Specialist Interest Workshops

Natural Heritage - 4th May 2006
Will Woodrow, Joyce Enright Martin Enright, Larry Mullin Declan Feeney, Joe Gowran Trevor Hunter, Martin Ruane Mark Keane

Attendance at Community Heritage Workshops

Sligo City - 13th May 2006
Aleck Crichton, Joyce Enright Mary Willis, David Willis Gerald Healy, Jim McLoughlin

Attendance at Council Staff Workshops

Sligo County Council and Sligo Borough Council 22nd to 23rd June 2006
Matthew Byrne Environment Mary Mc Donagh Arts John McHugh Environment Emer Concannon Environment Martina Conlon Finance Naomi Gorevan Communications Maura Hegarty Community & Enterprise Rosaleen Keane Community & Enterprise Mary McAuliffe Arts Ian Duggan Motor Tax Seamus OToole Area Services Mihaela Davidescu Forward Planning John Owens PMDS Pauline Brennan Corporate Services Paul Ryan Fire Service Sharon Eastwood Environment Michael Ryan Housing Donal Tinney Library Ciara OHara Community & Enterprise Henry Rowan Water Services Joanne Gorman Parks Michael Condren Parks Hugh McGlynn Parks

Grange - 18th May 2006 Built Heritage - 10th May 2006

Marion OCallaghan, Colin Bell Nicholas Prins, Michael Flanagan Michael McDonagh, P.J. ONeill Mark Keane, Wendy Lyons Margaret Hedge, Mary Willis Aidan Mannion, Joyce Enright Martin A. Timoney, Deirdre Foley Sen Martin James G. Hickey, Michael Bell Kitty Youds, Sean Feeney Tom Haran, Barry McSweeney Sen Gallagher, Declan Feeney Orla Kenny, James Hanrahan Hugh Gallagher, Paul Money Leo Leyden

Ballymote - 23rd May 2006

Roisin McGlone, Martin Henry Stephen Butler, James McCarrick Bernie McHugh, Ann Brennan Paddy Egan, Betty Conlon John Conlon, Bridget Colleran Fionnuala Meagher

Cultural Heritage - 11th May 2006

Stella G. Mew, Seamus McCormack Brian Scanlon, Henry Rowan Joyce Enright, Margaret Hedge Adrian Regan, Susan Gilmartin Michael Wann, Leo Leydon Felicity McNabb, Larry Mullin Joe McGowan

Easkey - 11th May 2006

Deirdre Finnerty, Alma Gallagher Margaret Conlon, Martin Wilson Brendan Queenan

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APPENDIX E HERITAGE LEGISLATION

National and EU Heritage Legislation
Heritage and Planning
Planning and Development Act, 2000 Heritage Act, 1995 Environmental Impact Assessment (Council Directive 85/337/EEC, as amended) Strategic Environmental Assessment (Council Directive 2001/42/EC)

International Conventions and Agreements which Ireland has signed and ratified
UNESCO Convention for the protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (ratified 1992) European Convention on the Protection of the Architectural Heritage of Europe. (Granada Convention), 1997 Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention), 1971 (ratified, 1984) Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Berne Convention), 1979 (ratified 1982) Convention of Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn Convention), 1979 (ratified 1983) Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992 (ratified, 1996) Agreement on Conservation of Bats in Europe (Bonn Convention), 1993 (ratified, 1995) International Tropical Timber Agreement, 1994 (1996) Agreement of the Conservation of AfricanEurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA) (Bonn Convention), 1996 Pan-European Biological and Landscape Diversity Strategy (endorsed 1995) European Landscape Convention, 2000 (ratified, 2002)

Above: Interior of Dromard Church of Ireland, Co. Sligo. Built in 1817, this simple and wonderfully intact church retains many of its original features including interior furniture and traceried windows. Photo: Vince Vidal

Built Heritage
National Monuments Acts 1990-1994 National Cultural Institutions Act, 1997 Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and Historic Monument (misc. provisions) Act 1999 Planning and Development Act, 2000

Natural Heritage and Waterways

Wildlife Act, 1976 Wildlife (Amendment) Act, 2000 European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1997 Birds Directive (Council Directiv 79/409/ EEC ), 1979 Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) 1992 Water Framework Directive (Council Directive 2000/60/EC), 2000

Museums and Archives

National Cultural Institutions Act, 1997 Local Government Acts 1994 and 2001

Landscapes and Heritage Gardens & Parks

Planning and Development Act 2000

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APPENDIX F LIST OF ACTIONS RELATING TO BIODIVERSITY

Continue mapping habitats of conservation concern e.g. trees, hedgerow, wetland, seminatural woodland, landscape features of ecological value. Conduct surveys for species of conservation concern. Support the participation of individuals and the community in recording heritage data, natural, built and cultural. Support the publication and consultation of draft Management Plans for Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the DEHLG. Develop a Local Biodiversity Action Plan for Sligo. Record biological data in partnership with the National Biodiversity Data Centre. Promote appropriate hedgerow management through provision of information, policy and training. Hold annual biodiversity day. Audit heritage sites, both natural and built, in public ownership.
Left: Greater Butterfly Orchid, Platanthera chlorantha. Photo: Don Cotton

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Opposite Page: St. Annes Church, Strandhill. An attractive church building built in 1843 which displays a high degree of craftsmanship and technical skill in its design. Photo: Sligo County Council

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06

Glossary

COUNTY SLIGO HERITAGE PLAN

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GLOSSARY
Archaeological Inventory The archaeological inventory is part of the National Monuments Section of the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government. It is responsible for the identification and designation of sites through the Archaeological Survey of Ireland. The variability among living organisms on the earth, including the variability within and between species, or within and between ecosystems. The EU Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) requires each member state to designate Special Protection Areas for birds. The directive contains annexes which are lists of birds which require particular conservation measures (Annex 1), and also species which may be hunted, and species which may be sold. Sligo Community Forum, established in March 2000, is a representative body of groups and voluntary organisations active and operating in County Sligo. A platform for affiliated community and voluntary groups to exchange information, experiences and to work collectively to voice issues and concerns relating to the economic and cultural development of the county. A Conservation Plan is a document which explains why a site is significant and how that significance will be retained in any future use, alteration, development or repair. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is an assessment of the likely influence a project may have on the environment. Environmental Impact Assessment can be defined as: The process of identifying, predicting, evaluating and mitigating the biophysical, social, and other relevant effects of development proposals prior to major decisions being taken and commitments made. (IAIA 1999). The purpose of the assessment is to ensure that decision-makers consider environmental impacts before deciding whether to proceed with new projects. The Field Monument Advisor Scheme is a programme run by Sligo County Council in partnership with the Heritage Council to provide information, advice and support to landowners in the custodianship of monuments in their care. The EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) was transposed into Irish Law in the European Union (Natural Habitats) Regulations, in 1997. The directive lists (Annex 1) certain habitats that must be protected through the establishment of Special Areas of Conservation. The directive also lists (Annex 2) species which must be afforded protection. The directive seeks to establish Natura 2000, a network of protected areas throughout the European Community. The Heritage Council was established as a statutory body under the Heritage Act 1995. Its role is to propose policies and priorities for the identification, protection, preservation and enhancement of the national heritage. The Council has a particular responsibility to promote interest, education, knowledge and pride in the national heritage.

Biodiversity

Birds Directive

Community Forum

Conservation Plan

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

Field Monument Advisor Scheme (FMA)

Habitats Directive

The Heritage Council

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Heritage in Schools Scheme Indicative Forestry Strategy

The Heritage in Schools scheme, operated by the INTO and The Heritage Council, offers a panel of heritage specialists who visit primary schools to work directly with children on heritage topics. An Indicative Forest Strategy (IFS) is a planning tool used to assess opportunities for new forest planting in a given area. The objective of an IFS is to identify the potential that future afforestation can make towards the establishment of high quality forests serving a variety of purposes including timber production, forest industry development, off-farm incomes, tourism, amenity and the enhancement of the environment. Landscape character assessment is the process of mapping, classifying and describing landscape character, and the process of making judgements about landscape character to inform different decisions. Local Agenda 21 originated in the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (Also referred to as the Earth Summit or the Rio Summit) held in June 1992. Local Agenda 21 (LA21) is an international sustainability planning process that provides an opportunity for local governments to work with their communities to create a sustainable future. The National Biodiviserity Data Centre has been established in Waterford IT. It is the national centre for the collection and management of biological data within Ireland. The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage is a section within the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government. The work of the NIAH involves identifying and recording the architectural heritage of Ireland from 1700 to the present day. The National Monuments Section is a section of the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government and is responsible for the identification and designation of sites through the Archaeological Survey of Ireland, assisting OPW in archaeological care of state properties, implementation of protective and regulatory controls including licensing of excavations under the National Monuments Acts and the provision of input and advice to planning and other authorities in respect of individual planning and other development applications, projects and plans. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is part of the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government and manages the Irish States nature conservation responsibilities under National and European law. NPWS is charged with the conservation of a range of ecosystems and populations of flora and fauna in Ireland. In particular, the responsibility of NPWS is the designation and protection of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs), and Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs).

Landscape Character Assessment Local Agenda 21

National Biodiversity Data Centre National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) National Monuments Section DEHLG

National Parks & Wildlife Service DEHLG

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Record of Protected Structures (RPS)

The Record of Protected Structures is a list of Protected Structures entered by a planning authority which is part of the Development Plan. A Protected Structure is a structure, or part of a structure, that a planning authority considers to be of special interest from an architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical point of view. Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) are prime wildlife conservation areas in the country, considered to be important on a European as well as Irish level. The legal basis on which SACs are selected and designated is the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) transposed into Irish law in European Union (Natural Habitats) Regulations of 1997. The Directive lists (Annex 1) certain habitats that must be protected within SACs. There is also a list (Annex 2) of species which must be afforded protection. The Directive seeks to establish Natura 2000 a network of protected areas throughout the European Community, and it is the responsibility of each state to designate Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) to protect habitats and species, and which together with the Special Protection Areas (SPAs) designated under the EU Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) form Natura 2000. Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is a system of incorporating environmental considerations into policies, plans and programmes. It is sometimes referred to as Strategic Environmental Impact Assessment, the specific term, Strategic Environmental Assessment relates to European Policy. The European SEA Directive (2001/42/EEC) required that all member states of the European Union should have ratified the Directive into their own countries law by July 2004. The Directive 2001/42/EC on the assessment of certain programmes on the environment was transposed into Irish Law by Regulation 435 and SI 431 of 2004. The objective of the directive is to provide for a high level of protection for the environment and to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of specified plans and programmes in promoting sustainable development. The Wildlife Act 1976 is the principal National legislation providing for the protection of wildlife and the control of some activities which may adversely affect wildlife. The aims of the Wildlife Act 1976 are to provide for the protection and conservation of wild fauna and flora, to conserve a representative sample of important ecosystems, to provide for the development and protection of resources and to regulate their exploitation, and to provide the services necessary to accomplish such aims.

Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

Strategic Environmental Assessment

Wildlife Act 1976

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