03/07/2008 -

Architectural Heritage of Sligo Launched

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Michael Finneran joined Mayor Councillor Veronica Cawley and Cathaoirleach Councillor Jude Devins for the launch of the ‘Architectural Heritage of County Sligo’ at County Hall.

In his address Minister Finneran said ‘The Architectural Surveys give an incredible picture of the rich and varied building tradition we have in this country, a building tradition we have in this country, a building tradition which is well represented in Sligo by many fine examples ranging from country houses, churches and public buildings to the more fragile vernacular thatched houses that dot the countryside. The wealth of surviving buildings of architectural importance should be a source of great inspiration and pride for you all.’

The Minister noted that ‘The Department has also significantly increased the funding available for the Civic Structure Grants Scheme from €1.9m in 2007 to €3.5m this year. This funding applies to any publicly owned or accessible protected structures.’

Mayor Councillor Veronica Cawley noted that ‘Prior to 1999, there was no legislation in Ireland for the protection of buildings that are a large part of our heritage.  In many instances, County Development Plans contained only small numbers of high profile buildings.  However, through the Planning and Development Act 2000, we have seen provision being made for the development of Records of Protected Structures.
The establishment of the County Sligo Heritage Forum in 2001 was a major development in terms of promoting and protecting our heritage. The people of Sligo take great pride in their ‘built’ heritage, and in Sligo City alone there is a great appreciation for historic buildings like Sligo Courthouse, City Hall, the Model and Niland Gallery and our old bridges and many more buildings across Sligo.

Cathaoirleach Councillor Devins feels that ‘Sligo people have a passion and enthusiasm about our heritage, and this was very much in evidence at our Community Heritage Grant Awards in May, when eighteen groups were honoured for their work in  preserving their local heritage.  In effect our communities are the custodians of our heritage, and Sligo County Council, through its Heritage Office, seeks to support and encourage them in this very worthy endeavour. The scope and diversity of our  Heritage Grants Programme ensures this Council plays a pivotal role in working alongside our local communities. The encouraging aspect for me is that very often the impetus and inspiration for these initiatives emanates from our communities, and this convinces me that Sligo County Council can plan in confidence in protecting and promoting our natural and built heritage.

 Minister Finneran formally presented a copy of the surveys to the Mayor and Cathaoirleach.