North Tipperary Heritage Plan

North Tipperary
T
Herita
age Plan
2013 - 2018
North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018
CONTENTS
1.0
Introduction ......................................................................................
2.0
Archaeology...................................................................................
3.0
Built Heritage.................................................................................. 15
4.0
Natural Heritage ................................
5.0
Cultural Heritage ... 35
6.0
Action Plan 2013 2018................................................................. 45
7.0
Who is already taking action for our Heritage?............................ 49
8.0
Funding Opportunities.................................................................... 53
APPENDICES
25
57
INTRODUCTION
1.0
INTRODUCTION
1.1
What is Heritage?
The Heritage Act, 1995 defines Heritage as including monuments, archaeological objects, heritage objects
such as art and industrial works, documents and genealogical records, architectural heritage, flora and
fauna, wildlife habitats, landscapes and seascapes, wrecks, geology, heritage gardens, parks and inland
waterways. While this list is comprehensive and far reaching, the North Tipperary Heritage Forum
recognises the importance of our intangible heritage features and for the purposes of this plan also
includes cultural heritage comprising, traditions, music and dance, folklore, language, sport etc.
1.2
Heritage of North Tipperary
North Tipperary stretches over 2,000 square kilometres and has considerable variation in geology, soils,
topography, drainage and land use that has led to diverse range of landscapes and habitats which form the
fabric of the countryside. A largely rural county, North Tipperary is a landscape of contrasts with significant
uplands including the mountain ranges of the Arra Mountains, Slieve Felim and Silvermines Mountains.
Upland areas are synonymous with conifer plantations, along with bog, heath and grasslands. The County
also includes extensive lowland areas which comprise productive agricultural land as well as bogs.
The North West of the County is immediately bounded by the River Shannon, and more particularly by
Lough Derg. The County is landlocked and is bounded by the Counties of Clare, Galway, Offaly, Laois,
Kilkenny, South Tipperary and Limerick. The well known River Suir, Mulkear River and Nenagh Rivers,
among others also run through North Tipperary. There are also a number of important areas of Natural
Heritage protected by EU Directives and known as Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection
Areas.
The Census 2011 records that the population of North Tipperary stands at 70,322, many of which live in
the principal towns of Nenagh, Thurles, Roscrea and Templemore, while the County also has several
smaller towns including Borrisoleigh, Borrisokane, Newport, Ballina and Cloughjordan.
Much of the Heritage of North Tipperary has been shaped not only by our landscape and location, e.g.
proximity to the lake, mountains etc, but also by our traditions, pastimes, interests and religious histories.
The County historically included many landlord estates with notable Estate Houses on the rich
pasturelands to the north of the County, and also many small holdings in the upland areas. North
Tipperary is home to numerous significant Monastic and Ecclesiastical Sites, most notably at Lorrha and
Roscrea in the north of the County and also the majestic Holycross Abbey in the South. Finally, the
Cultural Heritage of the County including the traditions of music and dance, not to mention the influence of
our traditional sports, has shaped the image and character of North Tipperary.
1.3
Why have a Heritage Plan?
The National Heritage Plan aims to set out a clear and coherent strategy and framework for the protection
and enhancement of our Heritage (National Heritage Plan, 2002). The core objectives of the National
Heritage Plan are to ensure the protection of our heritage and to promote its enjoyment by all. The
National Heritage Plan requires that each locality would have an individual heritage plan for its
administrative area, which should identify the aspects of Heritage most important to the County and also
aims and actions to be achieved during the lifetime of that plan. The National Heritage Plan also includes
guidelines on the implementation and monitoring of such actions.
Other recommendations of the National Heritage Plan are to empower local communities to engage with
heritage issues, enhance the role of local authorities in the protection of heritage and set up of Local
Heritage Fora to assist with these recommendations.
The North Tipperary Heritage Plan is a non-statutory document. However, the implementation of the aims
and objectives contained herein are given a statutory basis by the County Development Plan, 2010-2016.
BNH18 It is an objective of the Council, as opportunities arise, to continue to implement the key
aims and actions as identified in the North Tipperary Heritage Plan Co. Development Plan, 20102016, (p170).
Furthermore, the plan will endeavour to encourage the achievement of obligations under existing National
and International legislation, as they relate to the protection, and conservation of our heritage.
1.4
What is a Heritage Forum?
The North Tipperary Heritage Forum is an advisory group comprising professionals, experts and interested
individuals who have been brought together by the County Council to advise and assist in the preparation
of the plan and the implementation of the recommendations therein. The North Tipperary Heritage Forum
comprises both individuals and those representing different agencies/organisations including national
government departments, local authorities, NGOs and local specialist interest groups.
NORTH TIPPERARY HERITAGE FORUM 2013
1.5
Biodiversity Steering Group
The North Tipperary Biodiversity Steering Group is a sub-committee of the Heritage Forum. The Steering
Group was set up to advise on the management and protection of our Natural Heritage, and particularly to
oversee and advise on the development and implementation of the North Tipperary Biodiversity Plan,
2013-2018. The North Tipperary Biodiversity Plan and the North Tipperary Heritage Plan will run
concurrently from 2013-2018.
The Steering Group includes both representatives from Statutory Bodies and from community and interest
groups.
1.6
The Heritage Council
The Heritage Council was established as a statutory body under the Heritage Act, 1995. The mission of the
Heritage Council is to engage, educate and advocate to develop a wider understanding of the vital
contribution that our heritage makes to our social, environmental and economic well-being. The Heritage
Council offers guidance and advice to statutory bodies, Local Authorities and Local Communities and also
offers financial assistance through its Heritage Grants Scheme.
1.7
Rationale of the North Tipperary Heritage Plan, 2013-2018
This plan includes the aims, objectives and priorities for Heritage in North Tipperary from 2013-2018. The
plan builds on the previous North Tipperary (Draft) Heritage Plan, 2007 and has regard to the Heritage
Council Strategic Plan, 2012-2016. The plan endeavours to raise an awareness and appreciation of
Heritage in North Tipperary while promoting the value of heritage and encouraging its conservation. The
plan recognises that we are merely the custodians of our Heritage and it is our responsibility that it is
managed and protected in such a way that it can be passed, unchanged or improved, to the next
generation for their enjoyment.
1.8
North Tipperary County Heritage Plan, 2013 2018: Process to Date
The Heritage Forum has acted as the Steering Committee for the preparation of the plan. However, the
County Council and Heritage Forum also encouraged input from community groups, interest groups and
the public in general. In this regard, a number of public meetings were held and submissions invited.
To raise awareness of the Draft Plan, the Council will again seek views and opinions from members of the
public. This will be done by placing the Draft Plan on public display and inviting written submissions from all
interested parties. Public awareness sessions and workshops will also take place during this period. The
submissions will be taken into consideration by the Heritage Forum and the Elected Members of North
Tipperary County Council in preparing the final Heritage Plan.
The final plan will be presented to the elected members of North Tipperary County Council and there will
be a commitment by the Council in partnership with local people, to endeavour to deliver the aims and
objectives over the lifetime of the plan.
ARCHAEOLOGY
2.0
ARCHAEOLOGY
2.1
What is Archaeology?
Archaeology is the study of the past through the examination of the material remains left
behind by our predecessors. Archaeologists look at the evidence of their environments, e.g.
settlements and landscapes as well as human remains, artefacts such as tools, pottery, etc.
Unlike history, which uses all forms of evidence to examine and interpret the past, including
written documents, oral histories, as well as objects, archaeology is purely evidence based.
The 1930 Act defined the word monument to include any artificial or partly artificial building,
structure, or erection whether above or below the surface of the ground and whether affixed
or not affixed to the ground and any cave, stone, or other natural product whether forming
part of or attached to or not attached to the ground which has been artificially carved,
sculptured or worked upon or which (where it does not form part of the ground) appears to
have been purposely put or arranged in position and any prehistoric or ancient tomb, grave
or burial deposit, but does not include any building which is for the time being habitually used
for ecclesiastical purposes.
The National Monuments Act, 1930 defined the term national monument as a monument
or the remains of a monument the preservation of which is a matter of national importance
by reason of the historical, architectural, traditional, artistic, or archaeological interest
attaching thereto and also includes (but not so as to limit, extend or otherwise influence the
construction of the foregoing general definition) every monument in Saorstt Eireann to
which the Ancient Monuments Protection Act, 1882, applied immediately before the passing
of this Act, and the said expression shall be construed as including, in addition to the
monument itself, the site of the monument and the means of access thereto and also such
portion of land adjoining such site as may be required to fence, cover in, or otherwise
preserve from injury the monument or to preserve the amenities thereof.
The ranges, complexity, age, scale and importance of Monuments is as diverse as they are
numerous. Examples of well known monuments include Skellig Michael, the Rock of Cashel,
the Passage Tomb at Newgrange, and the Hill of Tara among others. However, monuments
also include industrial monuments such as mines and mills, habitations such as raths or ring
forts as well as Castles, Tower Houses etc, and cooking sites such as fulacht fia, religious
monuments and places of worship.
Monuments may not always be visible, and those which survive underground are referred to
as sites. These sites are often revealed during construction, farming etc and hold valuable
clues to the lives of our ancestors. Many sites have also remained preserved submerged in
bogs or underwater. The Ceide Fields in North Mayo is one of the most extensive
monuments in the world and includes dwellings, tombs, field systems etc stretching back to
the Stone Age
2.2
Legislation
Archaeological Heritage is protected under Irish legislation by the National Monuments Acts
1930 as amended by the Acts of 1954, 1987, 1994 and 2004. The legislation deals with
preservation of monuments, requirements in relation to the reporting of discovery of
archaeological objects, use of detection devices and licences required for excavations,
export of archaeological objects etc.

The National Monuments Act, 1930 defines an archaeological object as any chattel
whether in a manufactured or partly manufactured or an unmanufactured state which by
reason of the archaeological interest attaching thereto or of its association with any Irish
historical event or person has a value substantially greater than its intrinsic (including artistic)
value, and the said expression includes ancient human and animal remains and does not
include treasure trove in which the rights of the State have not been waived.
2.3
The Register of Historic Monuments was established under the National

Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1987. The Act defined a historic monument as a prehistoric
monument and any monument associated with the commercial, cultural, economic,
industrial, military, religious or social history of the place where it is situated or of the country
and also includes all monuments in existence before 1700 A.D. or such later date as the
Minister may appoint by regulations. This act defines an archaeological area as an area
which the Commissioners consider to be of archaeological importance but does not include
the area of a historic monument standing entered in the Register. Under this act the owner
or occupier (not being the Commissioners) of a historic monument or archaeological area
that is entered in the Register, or any other person proposing to carry out, or to cause or
permit the carrying out of, any work at or in relation to the monument or area, shall give
notice in writing of the proposal to the Commissioners and shall not, except in a case of
urgent necessity and with the consent of the Commissioners, commence the work for a
period of two months after having given the notice.
2.4
What is the Record of Monument and Places?
The National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1994 requires the establishment and
maintenance of a record of monuments, and places where they believe there are
monuments, and the record shall be comprised of a list of monuments and such places and
a map or maps showing each monument and such place in respect of each county in the
State.
The Record of Monument and Places (RMP) is a statutory list of all known archaeological
monuments provided for in the National Monuments Acts. There are over 120,000 Recorded
Monuments included in the RMP. The RMP, which is compiled by the National Monuments
Section of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, consists of a county-bycounty inventory of sites which identifies and describes the type of monument. For more
information on the RMP, refer to the National Monuments Website at www.archaeology.ie
Under The National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1994 the owner or occupier (not being
the Commissioners) of a monument or place which has been recorded under subsection (1)
of this section or any person proposing to carry out, or to cause or permit the carrying out of,
any work at or in relation to such monument or place, shall give notice in writing of the
proposal to carry out the work to the Commissioners and shall not, except in the case of
urgent necessity and with the consent of the Commissioners, commence the work for a
period of two months after having given the notice.
2.5
Different periods covered by archaeology
Archaeological interest ranges from Mesolithic era c.7000BC-4000BC to the Post Medieval
era c.1600 AD- c.1750AD. The earliest archaeological sites in Ireland date back to the
Mesolithic period when traces of the first settlers in Ireland have been discovered. These
first settlers, believed to have come from Britain, were fishermen, hunters and gatherers.
Artefacts including tools, stone implements can be traced back to this period, which followed
the end of the last Ice Age, 10,000 years ago. However, it should be borne in mind that
archaeology also includes objects, structures etc dating to relatively recent times.

9
2.6
Archaeological Periods
Period
Neolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Time
4000 - 2500BC
2500 500BC
500BC 400AD
Sites
The Neolithic Period saw the
arrival of the first farmers in
around 4000BC. These people
brought with them new ideas,
farming
methods,
traditions/beliefs.
Archaeological
monuments
from
this
period
include
megalithic tombs, such as the
Court
Tomb
at
Shanballyedmond.
The Bronze Age, is given its name as the knowledge of

working gold and copper was developed. During this age, a
new range of artefacts and monuments began to appear as the
use of metals for making weapons and tools became common.
The Iron Age is given its

name due to the predominance of use of iron
during this period.
Hillforts are typical of this
period, a fine example of
which is Garrangrena Hilfort
Early
Christian
Period
Medieval
400AD 800AD
The Early Christian Period

signified the introduction of
Christianity to North Tipperary.
Early Christian sites include St.
Ruadhans Church in Lorrha and
St. Odrans Church in Latteragh.
1169 1600AD
The Medieval Period is often

associated with the arrival of the
Anglo-Normans. There are many
significant sites in North Tipperary
dating from this period including
the impressive Ecclesiastical sites
in Lorrha, including the Augustinian
Priory and the Dominican Friary,
Roscrea Castle and also the
Cistercian Abbey at Holycross.
10
Post
Medieval
0RGHUQ
0RGHUQ
1600 1750AD
Present Day
The Post Medieval Period signifies

a move away from the defensive
structures of the Medieval period to
more comfortable houses. Bell Isle
Windmill is a fine example of a post
medieval structure.
Archaeological Heritage over most recent

centenaries, includes many features
which illustrate cultural development and
the
evolvement
of
skills
and
workmanship.
An example of Modern Day significant
sites includes the striking Harry Clarke
Stained glass window in Cloughjordan
R.C. Church
2.7
Windows to our Past
(Text taken from Earthen Banks and Broken Walls, Department of the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government)
The Irish countryside is unique in Europe in the number of upstanding ancient monuments
that survive from past ages. These range from 6,000-year-old megalithic tombs to earthen
ringforts, of early medieval date, to castles, churches and other buildings of more recent
date. They are a wonderful link to the past and are to be found in almost every townland in
the country. Often a monument has given its name to the townland and many are imbued
with local history and tradition. They are important features in the cultural landscape and
when a monument is destroyed part of our history and identity is destroyed with it. This
valuable legacy from the past is something we should all strive to understand, cherish and
protect.
1.
Fulacht Fia
Also known as burnt mounds or ancient cooking places, these small grassed-over mounds
of fire-cracked stones are very common in some counties. They are usually found in boggy
land or close to a water supply. When excavated, a pit lined with wattle, timber or stone is
usually found, in which water was heated by rolling in hot stones from a nearby fire. Meat
could have been cooked in the boiling water and the mound was formed of shattered stones
shovelled from the pit after each use. There is also some evidence that these sites were
used for bathing in ancient times.
11

2.
Stone Circles/Rows/Standing Stones
Single standing stones were erected for different

purposes at different times in the past. Some marked
burials; others marked boundaries or served some
commemorative or ritual function. Some standing stones
have Ogham inscriptions dating from the fourth to the
seventh centuries AD, which commemorate individuals of
that time. Ogham is an alphabet formed of strokes carved
on the edge of a stone and these inscriptions are the
oldest record of the Irish language. Stone circles of five or
more upright stones, found in certain parts of the country,
were used for ritual and/or burial purposes, were
sometimes aligned on important astronomical events and
date from the Bronze Age.
Baurnadomeeney Standing
Stone
Standing stones can also be found in pairs or in rows of three or more closely set stones.
These latter are often aligned on a point such as a gap in the hills where the sun or moon
rises or sets at important points in the year. Stone rows, like the stone circles, were used for
ceremonial purposes during the Bronze Age. Certain earth-fast boulders or outcrops of rock
in some parts of the country were carved with cup-and-circle motifs, concentric circles and
other designs. Not being part of a built structure, these are difficult to date and while they
were formerly believed to belong to the Bronze Age, arguments for a Neolithic date have
more recently been put forward.
3.
Linear Earthwords and Roadways
Linear earthworks are ancient earthen banks that can be traced sometimes for miles across
the countryside and have names, reminiscent of legends, such as the Black Pig's Race or
the Claidhe Dubh. They appear to have formed territorial boundaries and/or impediments to
cattle raiding. Some date from the Iron Age. Ancient roadways or track ways are most often
found where they crossed bogs and consisted of timbers or branches laid down to give a
firm footing. The bog in time enveloped and preserved the timber and the preserved remains
of these bog roads or toghers, dating from the Stone Age up to the seventeenth century, are
frequently found during turf cutting.
4.
Megalithic Tombs
The oldest archaeological monuments in Ireland

are megalithic (large-stone) tombs, in which the
remains of our remote ancestors were buried
together with pottery and items of flint, stone and
bone. There are four main classes of megalithic
tombs but the oldest two, dating mainly from c.
4000 to 3000 BC, are the portal tombs and the
court tombs. Portal tombs have been so named
because two tall portal stones flanked the
entrance to the chamber. Court tombs derive their
name from an open court in front of the tomb
entrance. These tombs were normally covered by
long cairns (mounds) of stone and are mostly
confined to the northern half of the country.
12
Baurnadomeeney Wedge Tomb:

Some of our best-known megalithic tombs are passage tombs such as Newgrange and
these often remain fully buried beneath circular cairns of stones, with a passage leading to
the burial chamber. They are found often on hilltops and generally occur in groups, known as
cemeteries. One of the oldest surviving forms of art or decoration in Ireland is found on
structural stones in some of these tombs, which date from around 3500-2500 BC. Wedge
tombs get their name from the fact that the chamber is frequently wedge-shaped in both plan
and profile. Excavation has shown that these tombs date from the transition period between
the Stone Age and the Bronze Age in Ireland (2500-2000 BC).
(Text taken from Earthen Banks and Broken Walls, Department of the Environment,
Heritage and Local Government)
5.
Ring forts/Raths
Archaeology includes sites, like raths or ring forts. These sites are the farmyards of our
predecessors. The enclosed earthen banks accommodated agricultural activities. These
compounds provided shelter and protection and often included underground chambers
called souterrains.
6.
Churches and Graveyards
Perhaps the most accessible and best known of all

archaeological sites are the Ecclesiastical sites, many of
which are still used as places of worship today. These sites
include Churches and Burial Grounds and also holy wells.
The Care and Conservation of Historic Burial Grounds is of
particular interest to community and voluntary groups,
however, it is advisable to contact the Heritage Officer of the
Local Authority or the Department of Arts, Heritage and the
Gaeltacht prior to undertaking any works within these
Monuments. Further information on the Care and
Conservation of Burial Grounds, is available on
www.heritagecouncil.ie and www.tipperarynorth.ie
7.
Early Christian Sites

Early Christianity in Ireland focused around the Monasteries. These
varied in size and importance, with many religious orders coming from
abroad, such as the Franciscans, Dominicans, and Cistercians. The
remains of many such Monasteries are still visible today. High Crosses
and Round Towers are also associated with the Early Christian Period
in Ireland.
Monaincha Church and High Cross, Roscrea.
Castles/Towers Houses
By the 15th Century much of the Country was under

the control of Lordships, both Gaelic and AngloNorman. Many of these families built Castles and
Tower Houses which provided security for the
occupants. Many of the Tower Houses included
features such as battlements, machicolations, etc.
Many of these buildings are still dotted throughout
the County today.
Lackeen Tower House
13
2.8
Resources
Who?
National
Monuments
Service
What?
The Heritage
Council
The National
Roads
Authority
Contact
Responsibility for the protection of our www.archaeology.ie

archaeological heritage in conjunction with
the Dept of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
Responsibility for (in conjunction with the
OPW) the protection of National Monuments
in State care.
Provide advice to planning authorities on
development proposals (development plans,
heritage plans and individual planning
applications) that may have implications for
archaeological heritage.
Advise individuals and local groups on
archaeological issues.
Provides information and guidance on all

aspects heritage.
Provides funding for various heritage projects
Archaeological Section is responsible for the
management
of
the
archaeological
implications of national road projects.
Archaeological Impact Assessments are
undertaken during the planning stage and
reports on finds are published to increase the
awareness of archaeological heritage.
14
www.heritagecouncil.ie
www.nra.ie
BUILT HERITAGE
15
North Tipperrary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 201

18
3.0
BUILT HERITAGE
E
3.1
Architectural herita
age
The historic environment provvides a tangible link with our past and contriibutes to our sense
of national, local and commu
unity identity. It also provides the character and
a distinctiveness
that is so important to a possitive sense of place. It
can support the regenera
ation and sustainable
economic and social development
d
of our
communities. It enhances th
he quality of our daily
lives. Architectural Heritage includes all structures,
buildings and groups off buildings including
streetscapes and urban vista
as which are of special
architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic,
cultural, scientific, social or technical interest
together with their setting, grounds, fixtures, fittings
and contents.
The Planning and Development Act 2000 introduced a new mechanism
m for protecting our
Architectural Heritage through the inclusion of a Record of Proteccted Structures in
Development Plans. A protected structure is a structure that a local authority considers to be
of special interest from an arcchitectural, historical, archaeological, artistic,, cultural, scientific,
social or technical point of vie
ew. Details of protected structures are enterred by the authority
in its Record of Protected Strructures (R.P.S.), which is part of the Develo
opment Plan. Each
owner and occupier of a protected structure is legally obliged to ensure that
t
the structure is
preserved.
An architectural conservation area is a place, area, group of structures or
o townscape which
is of special architectural, historical,
h
archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific,
s
social or
technical interest or contribu
utes to the appreciation of protected structures. This could
include, for example, a terracce of houses, buildings surrounding a squarre, or any group of
buildings which together give
e a special character to an area. An architecctural conservation
area may or may not include
e protected structures. Planning permission must be obtained
before significant works can be carried out to the exterior of a structure in an architectural
conservation area. It is also noteworthy
n
that structures in the architectural conservation area
which may not be protected structures
s
may or may not avail of exempted development. An
owner or occupier of a structu
ure in an architectural conservation area shou
uld seek the advice
of the Local Authority prior to
o carrying out any works which would norm
mally be exempted
development.

North Tipperary has a rich arcchitectural heritage of civic buildings, churche
es, country houses,
demesnes, round towers and vernacular buildings. In addition there are bu
uildings which point
to our industrial heritage; fllax and corn mills and road and rail brid
dges. Sympathetic
maintenance, modification and
a
re-use of protected structures can re
esult in aesthetic,
economic and environmental benefits and allow the building to be re-used
d in a modern way.
eative and sensitive
The successful conservation and re-use of such structures requires a cre
al authorities, policy makers, stakeholderr agencies, owner
approach on behalf of loca
16

18
occupiers and developers. It also
a
requires a balance between conserving a buildings innate
character and finding an apprropriate use to ensure its continued survival.
3.2
Architectural Intere
est
A building may be protected due to its architectural merits or

the significance of elements of the building. The building or
ar of a particular building type or
structure may be an exempla
design. It may also demonsttrate good examples of differing
designs and how they work together.
t
A building noted for its
architectural merit may also have
h
been designed by a notable
architect, or may make a positive contribution to its setting.

ortant features of North Tipperarys built heritage are the estate
Estates and demesnes Impo
houses, gate lodges, farm bu
uildings and designed landscapes found thro
oughout the county.
The Big Houses of the Cou
unty were mainly built between the mid sevventeenth and mid
nineteenth centuries by Engllish Landlords. Many of these estates retain strong links with
their local community. Wherre the main house is no longer standing, remnants of these
estates remain such as wallled gardens, gate lodges, mausoleums, de
esigned views and
vistas. These are part of the character
c
and add to the amenity of these siites, many of which
are publicly accessible.

Vernacular
c
of architecture based
Vernacular architecture is a category
on localised needs and construction
c
materials, and
reflecting local traditions. Verrnacular architecture tends to
evolve over time to reflect the environmental, cultural,
technological, and historical context
c
in which it exists. It is
often dismissed or overloo
oked but these vernacular
buildings are important elements
e
of our heritage.
Vernacular buildings were
e generally single storey
structures, with a rectilinear plan, usually no more than
one room deep, with gable en
nd or hipped roof details most
frequently with slate roofs.
3.3
Historical Interest
Buildings and structures havve interest due to their association with a historical event or
personality which gave rise to their construction or evolution. Town walls,
w
courthouses,
gaols, railway stations and workhouses
w
all stand as testimony to past evvents and changing
times contributing to the chara
acter of our towns.
Courthouses
t classical design
Most of the courthouses in Ireland are nineteenth-century buildings to
incorporating columnar portico
oes. Later courthouses constructed in smalller towns tended to
be simpler in design. With the termination of court services in many sma
all provincial towns
ount importance to
finding a sustainable future use for these buildings will be of paramo
ese buildings for future generations.
ensure the conservation of the
17

18
Workhouses
w Act of 1838 to tackle the impoverished cirrcumstances of the
The passing of the Poor Law
tenant farmers of Ireland resu
ulted in the erection
of workhouses on the outskirts of larger towns.
163 workhouses were built in
n Ireland from 1840
to 1853 by which time popullations entering the
workhouses had started to fall
f from their peak
largely due to reduced popula
ation due to famine,
and the resulting emigratio
on. The Sisters of
Mercy started nursing in the workhouses and
were instrumental in improvin
ng conditions. As a
result, some of the workhousses surviving today
do so as part of hospitals and
d homes for elderly
people.
Garda College
In the early 1800s the British Government chose Thurles as the location for its new military
barracks. However, a 17-acre
e site was donated by Sir John Carden in Templemore together
with the adjoining 40 acres fo
or training and recreation. The barracks was designed and built
in 2 squares, surrounded by company
c
lines, stores, married quarters, miliitary prison, church
and hospital. The Richmond
d barracks as it was named, and the surrrounding area was
quickly developed, with name
es such as Talavera Place, Vinemara Mall, and
a Regent Bridge.
The building was refurbished in 1964, when it was made the national tra
aining centre for An
Garda Sochna.
3.4
Archaeological Inte
erest
Structures of archaeological interest may also be protected under the Na

ational Monuments
Acts. Often a building which has
h evolved over time may contain elementss of older buildings
giving it an archaeological context.
c
A structure of archaeological inte
erest can assist in
understanding our past, eith
her through the technologies used in the construction
c
of the
structure or through the use of
o the building itself.
3.5
Graveyards
Our historic graveyards are places

p
of intense human activity. Along with providing a resting
place for our departed and a place of remembrance, graveyards are off immense heritage
value as sites of archaeolo
ogical and architectural interest, as wildlife
e habitats and as
repositories of local genealo
ogy, sculpture and art. Across the Irish lan
ndscape countless
generations erected churche
es for worship, round towers, enclosure walls, crypts and
gravestones. In short, there iss a lot we can learn from our historic cemete
eries which will help
unlock much of our archaeolo
ogical heritage. (Reference: Heritage Counciil, Guidance for the
Care, Conservation and Reco
ording of Historic Graveyards)
3.6
Artistic Interest
Buildings or structures may be of interest due to a particular design

n, decoration. The
craftsmanship used in the stru
ucture may be of particularly good quality or be characteristic of
a specific area. Often artisticc merit can be afforded to an element of a structure or how a
particular material within a strructure has been designed or decorated.
18
Decorative Detailing
Well designed and executed, intricate artistic input, create particular interest. Examples
include hanging slate work, brickwork, carved masonry and
ironwork.
Stained Glass
Ireland has a rich legacy of stained glass. Fine examples of
the art can be found in public and private buildings across
the country, but mainly in our churches. The work of some of
the finest European, English and Irish artists graces great
cathedrals, historic buildings and humble churches.
(Heritage Council, The Care of Stained Glass)
3.7
Cultural Interest
Structures which are of cultural interest often include elements of artistic, architectural,
historical, scientific, economic or social interest. Public buildings such as museums, libraries
and colleges are the most obvious examples of culturally significant structures. Public parks,
market squares and other communal spaces are also significant heritage places.
3.8
Scientific Interest
The significance of a structure may relate to the methods employed in its construction and
execution. This may even be attributed to the material used in its construction such as the
types of reeds used in thatched roofs, or extinct plant species or pollen spores. Gardens
used for breeding rare species of plants have significant scientific interest attached to them.
Often elements of scientific data can also be found within or on structures, such as
Ordnance Survey benchmarks. More obviously, a building constructed in association with
scientific research would have scientific heritage interest.
3.9
Technical Interest
Construction methods employed in the building of a structure may in itself have a technical
significance relating to how engineering problems; can be overcome. The most notable
features of our Architectural Heritage which are of technical interest often relate to our
industrial heritage.
19

Mills
Since medieval times the power of water has been harnessed
and exploited as a power source in Ireland. The abundance of
the supply of water and the advent of the industrial revolution
led to the construction of mill buildings throughout the country
and county. Most mills were of random rubble stone
construction and often evolved over time from small scale to
large scale industrial type mills. Mills were constructed for a
multitude of processes including grain milling, brewing,
distilling, malting, wool milling, saw milling, to name but a few.
Bridges
Masonry bridges began to be built in Ireland in the Later
Medieval period. The design of bridges reflects their function,
technology of the day, and resources available to their
builders. In the 18th century as road networks expanded for
larger vehicles, more elaborate bridges with sophisticated
arches and larger spans began to be built. The requirements
of modern day transportation have resulted in a number of
these bridges being modified through road widening and
strengthening, often resulting in a loss to its heritage value.
Power Station
In 1923, just one year after Irelands declaration of independence, an Irish engineer, Dr
Thomas McLaughlin, on the instruction of the new freestates Minister for Industry and Commerce, Patrick
McGilligan, designed the Shannon Hydro-Electric Scheme.
At a cost of 5.2million the scheme would be one fifth of the
states entire budget. The scheme employed nearly 5000
workers and was completed and operational by 1929 with
the ESB established to oversee its operations. A series of
canals, weirs and winches were constructed as part of the
overall scheme to control water levels passing through the
power station. What is remarkable is that although Ireland
was one of the least industrialised countries in Europe it was
the first country in the world to have a national-electric grid. Parteen Weir and Winch, just
outside Birdhill, forms part of the network for Shannon Hydro-Electric Scheme.
Mining
Nineteenth century mining in Ireland was widespread in rural areas and economically
marginal, small-scale, sporadic [and] under capitalised Rynne (2006, 129). Mining was very
much a market driven industry and when interest in specific areas became apparent and
supplies subsequently manifested, investment was made. The mining industry was largely
under-capitalised, it proved itself to be a temporary industry and sustainable long term
investment rarely manifested itself. Significant mining site in North Tipperary include the now
abandoned mining site of the Silvermines (including Shallee) and the more modern and
active works at Lisheen (Moyne)
20

The Mining Heritage at Silvermines
The name Silvermines is relatively recent in its
origins. By the nineteenth century the name had
come to mean both the village and the entire
mineralised fault-line stretching along the hill
slope from there to Shallee Cross. The name
Knockaunderrick had been applied to the hill
prior to that of Silvermines (Cowman, 1988).
The Silvermines District is one of the most important historic mining regions in Ireland, with
recorded mining dating back to 1289 when Italian miners from Genoa and Florence in Italy
began speculation in the area. While a wide range of minerals have been extracted from the
mines, including lead, zinc, copper, barites, sulphur and silver, documentation and
references to mining in the area are vague and as such it is difficult to say where exactly
mining was taking place until 1845. What is clear is that extensive mining took place in the
area throughout the centuries and became well documented around the sixteenth century.
Mining took place in the area off and on until 1874 when a fall in the price of mine materials
and an influx from overseas markets no longer made it viable for mining in the area to
progress. The industrial depression of the 1880s further negated any opportunity for the
mines to reopen at the time.
The area fell silent for a number of decades but with
the onset of World War I, investigations into the
potential of the mines took place in 1917 with further
sampling works in 1929/1930. This resulted in the
Silvermines Lead and Zinc Company setting up in
1948. This is the first time an Irish company was set up
to mine the area. A plant was set up in Silvermines
and in Shalee. The ore residue from the 1800s mining
efforts was reprocessed in Silvermines as a pilot
scheme with little success. The Lead mine at Shallee
progressed from 1950 to 1958 producing sizable
quantities of lead until its closure.
In the 1960s a Canadian company called Mogul began prospecting in the Silvermines. Soon
after a multi-million tonne ore body grading about 11% combined lead and zinc was also
discovered. Mogul and Silvermines Lead and Zinc developed Europes largest base metal
mine which was opened by Jack Lynch, Taoiseach in 1968. The mines employed around
500 people from the local area. The mine operated for 14 years with three fatalities during its
operations. Up to 3,000 tonnes of ore were processed daily with the concentrate ore being
transported by rail to Foynes and shipped to European smelters.
While extensive mining was taking place underground by Mogul, the Magobar Company
discovered a world-class deposit of baryte and began opencast mining in 1963. The
opencast mine was 200 feet deep and extended to circa 50 acres. The Magcobar mine
closed in September 1992.
21

With all mining activities in the Silvermines area effectively ceased, its legacy remained with
extensive soil heaps, flooded open cast pond,
shafts, and buildings prominent in the landscape.
The tailings pond, 50 acres at Gortmore, containing
mining residue and washings, was abandoned.
Without any intake the pond began to dry up and
the dust began to blow. This caused great concern
to the locals as the dust was toxic.
With the parent company gone the responsibility of
the care of the tailing pond was called into question
and was a source of concern for almost 25 years
when in 2006 the then Minister Dempsey agreed to
fund a 10million rehabilitation fund over a 4 year
programme which included the rehabilitation of the
Gortmore Tailings Pond.
To date the rehabilitation works to the Tailings facility have been successfully completed.
The Cornish engine houses have been conserved. Safety aspects on the sites have been
addressed with appropriate fencing andsignage erected and some demolition works having
taken place.
3.10
Social Interest
Special social interest in a structure may be attributed to the symbolism of that structure to
its community. Alternatively the structure may serve a community purpose or form part of the
identity of the community or group of people.
Churches: There are many churches in North
Tipperary
reflecting
many
different
religious
denominations but mainly Roman Catholic, Church of
Ireland and Presbyterian. Most of the churches are
included on the Record of Protected Structures and
are therefore protected. Many of the churches face
challenging economic futures as the number attending
them decrease; and the cost of the conservation of
their often ornate and high quality exteriors and
interiors falls onto smaller congregations.
22

Schools
Until 1831 education in Ireland was offered in private, fee
paying schools. The National Board of Education was set
up to establish a system of primary education which was
grant assisted covering building costs, and teachers
salaries. Many of the first national schools were built to look
like houses and were usually single storey, one-roomed or
two-roomed buildings. The schools then were usually quite
plain inside and often had Georgian-style windows. Most of
the buildings used local random rubble stone in their
construction which was plastered with a lime mortar. Often
schools had decorated roofs or ridge tiles.
3.11
Resources
Who
North Tipperary
County Council
Planning Department
The National
Inventory of
Architectural Heritage
Department of Arts,
Heritage and the
Gaeltacht
What
Responsible for preparing and
maintaining the record of Record
of Protected Structures.
Provide planning advice for works
to Protected Structures
Records and evaluates the post1700 architectural heritage of

Ireland.
Acts as an aid in the protection
and conservation of built heritage.
Oversees the conservation,

preservation, protection and
presentation of Irelands heritage
and cultural assets.
23
Contact
www.tipperarynorth.ie
www.buildingsofireland.ie
www.ahg.gov.ie
24
NATURAL HERITAGE
25
4.0
NATURAL HERITAGE
Another important aspect of our heritage, natural heritage refers to the nature and wildlife
and wild places all around us from the uplands to the lowlands, wet and watery places, to dry
land. Nature and wildlife are also found in our gardens, parks, hedgerows, ditches and
drains; on stone walls and under bridges.
Our natural heritage also includes biodiversity or the variety of life. Biodiversity is another
term for nature or wildlife but it also refers to places that plant and animals live (habitats),
and the interactions among living things, and their environment (ecosystem).Biodiversity
provides us with the essential elements for life- air, water, food, fuel, medicines and building
materials.
The North Tipperary Draft Biodiversity Plan, 2013-2018 provides an overview of the North
Tipperary wildlife habitats and species, many are which are protected under EU Directives
and designated Special Area of Conservation and Special Areas of Protection. The Draft
Biodiversity Plan also provides for a series of actions to promote, conserve and protect our
Natural Heritage, to be delivered in partnership with community groups and local people.
While the Biodiversity Plan provides a more detailed account of the ecological importance of
Natural Heritage sites, this section provide a focus on some of the key areas and
characteristics of our landscape which are important to North Tipperary from a broader
heritage perspective.
4.1
Rivers and Lakes of North Tipperary
The rivers streams and lakes of North Tipperary, as well as being a unique part of the
natural heritage and resources of County Tipperary, are a vital and valuable asset to the
people of the county. The importance of the waterways in terms of biodiversity is very
significant, however, their importance as a resource in terms of tourism, and angling etc
cannot be understated.
1. Lough Derg
The name Lough Derg is an anglicised version of the Irish name Loch Derigeirt meaning
lough of the red eye. Lough Derg measuring 118km2 is Irelands third largest lake after
26

Lough Neagh and Lough Corrib. The lake is characterised by broad bays, a complex
indented shoreline and numerous islands, all fringed by reed beds and deciduous woodland.
Lough Derg is an important site for both wintering and breeding birds and is designated for
nature conservation as a Special Protection Area (SPA) based on the bird populations it
supports.
In addition to the lakes rich biodiversity, the lake has long history of human activity and the
landscape is dotted with sites and monuments from every era of Irelands history. These
sites and monuments range from the dramatic monastic ruins of Holy Island, numerous
lakeside castles and tower houses to the functional nineteenth century steam boat quays.
The Slieve Aughty and Bearnagh Mountains to the west of Lough Derg and the Arra
Mountains to the east rise spectacularly around the lake lending it a particular scenic quality.
The lake carries significant stocks of 11 different species of coarse and game fish. Pike and
trout could be considered as the most important species. However, there are significant
stocks of other fish such as bream, eels and lamprey including a landlocked form of Sea
lamprey and a wide variety of small coarse fish species. The relatively rare Croneen trout
and the very rare Irish Pollan are also important species in the Lake
Under the Water Framework Directive (WFD) fish are the most important indicator not only
of water quality but for species biodiversity. In order to protect this biodiversity a range of
issues need to be continually monitored and highlighted primarily in the context of land-use
and drainage practices. Without care extra nutrients can discharge into the small rivers and
streams where the main spawning takes place. It is also these small streams that are most
affected by drainage whereby the habitat fundamental to all aquatic species can be
destroyed.
Alien Species
Another serious threat to the biodiversity of the Lake is the introduction of alien species in
terms of plants, aquatic insects and other fish. It is important that people realise the huge
impact on biodiversity and habitats from the release of non-native species of fish, plants, or
insects into the wild and especially our rivers, streams and lakes. The delicate balance of
nature can be completely destroyed. Some of the most invasive Alien Species in Lough Derg
include the zebra mussel and the Bloody Red Shrimp.
27
Zebra Mussel
Bloody Red Shrimp
River Habitats and Biodiversity

To value biodiversity we must first be aware of the various habitats that are found along
rivers. Rainwater falling in a river catchment collects into small water courses and streams
which flow into larger streams and in turn form the main channel. These watercourses
provide habitat for plants and animals. As they increase in size they become home to fish
and waterfowl. As the tributaries become larger they become important habitat not only for
fish but also for mammals that feed on them e.g. Otter.
Rivers provide an array of habitats for salmon, trout and a variety of other species. This is
true not only for under the water but also along the river banks sometimes referred to as
riparian habitat. The riparian habitat is the place where water and dry land meet and includes
emergent water vegetation such as rushes and sedges but also trees and other plants which
grow along the river banks. A habitat that is not usually thought of is the space or air over the
river. Here aquatic invertebrate species (insects), after leaving the water often swarm to find
a mate. These in turn are important food items for birds such as swallows and even bat
species.
1. The River Suir and River Nore
The River Suir is over 184km in length and is one of Irelands most important salmon and
brown trout rivers. It is also an important haven for wildlife. Rising in the Devils Bit Mountain,
the river largely flows through County Tipperary but also takes in parts of Kilkenny and
Waterford. The River Suir has a history of Salmon and Trout angling, commercial Salmon
fishing and Eel fishing.
The River Nore, stretches over 140km in length and passes through the counties of
Tipperary, Laois, Kilkenny before reaching the Celtic Sea at Waterford Harbour. Along with
the River Suir it is one of the rivers knows as the Three Sisters (the other being the River
Barrow). The Nore like its sister River, the Suir, rises in the Devils Bit Mountain north of
Templemore. A commercial way of fishing called snap net fishing has been used for many
years on the lower reaches of the River Suir and River Nore. The snap net is a type of net
used to surround the Salmon. Normally, two boats known as cots work together with the
snap net.
Both rivers have a long history of Salmon and Trout angling. There are a large variety of fish
species in the freshwater portion of the Rivers Suir and Nore. Native fish species include
Atlantic salmon, brown trout, sea lamprey, river lamprey, brook lamprey, three-spined
stickleback, twaite shad, smelt, flounder, and eel. Non-native introduced fish species include
perch, pike, tench, gudgeon, minnow, stoneloach and dace.
28
The River Suir is a candidate Special Area of Conservation (cSAC) selected for the
presence of the priority habitats on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive - alluvial wet
woodlands and Yew Wood. The site is also selected as a cSAC for floating river vegetation,
Atlantic salt meadows, Mediterranean salt meadows, old oak woodlands and eutrophic tall
herbs, all habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected
for the following species listed on Annex II of the same directive - Atlantic Salmon, the three
lamprey species, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Crayfish, Twaite Shad, and Otter.
The Rivers Nore and Barrow form a single site as a cSAC selected for alluvial wet
woodlands and petrifying springs, priority habitats on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive.
The site is also selected as a cSAC for old oak woodlands, floating river vegetation, estuary,
tidal mudflats, Salicornia mudflats, Atlantic salt meadows, Mediterranean salt meadows, dry
heath and eutrophic tall herbs, all habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive.
The site is also selected for the following species listed on Annex II of the same directive
Atlantic Salmon, the three lamprey species, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Nore Freshwater
Pearl Mussel, Crayfish, Twaite Shad, Otter, Desmoulins Whorl Snail, Vertigo moulinsiana
and the Killarney Fern.
2. Nenagh River
The Nenagh River rises in the Silvermine Mountains, and flows east of Nenagh to Dromineer
where it flows into Lough Derg. The Ollatrim River is one of the most significant tributaries of
the Nenagh River and is popular for recreational activities such as angling. The Nenagh
River is primarily a brown trout river and gets a small run of spring salmon and grilse. The
lower reaches near the confluence with Lough Derg are rich in coarse fish, making the river
an important angling resource in terms of both coarse and game angling. Work is ongoing
by the local Ormond Anglers to improve the river for spawning etc, and projects to date
include the installation of a fish counter at Ballyartella.
3. Mulkear River
The Mulkear River rises in the Slievefelim and Silvermines mountains, flows through
Counties Tipperary and Limerick and joins the River Shannon near Annacotty, Co. Limerick.
The river is approximately 21.5 km long, and together with its tributaries, which include the
Bilboa River, the Newport River and the Dead River, it drains a catchment area of
approximately 650 km. This catchment area spans both Counties Limerick and Tipperary.
29

The Mulkear River, which is a cSAC, provides important habitat for numerous mammals,
most notably the Otter. The Mulkear is also an important habitat for fish species such as Sea
Lamprey and Atlantic Salmon, among others. One of the main threats to Biodiversity along
the Mulkear River is the presence of Invasive species such as Giant Hogweed, Japanese
Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam. Other threats include river drainage and farming
practices.
MulkearLIFE Project (from www.mulkearlife.com)

The Mulkear River is one of the top five salmon rivers in Ireland when its relative size is
considered, producing a significant annual salmon run. It also holds substantial populations
of Sea Lamprey and Otter which are known to be widespread, however, recent evidence
suggests numbers are in decline. The main project objective is to restore, through in-stream
rehabilitation works, degraded habitats along stretches of the Mulkear River and its principal
tributaries. This work, while beneficial to many species, is targeted at Sea Lamprey, Atlantic
Salmon and the European Otter.
4.2
Mountains and Uplands of North Tipperary.
North Tipperary is a County of diverse landscape with flat plains and bogs, but is also dotted
with several beautiful Upland and Mountainous areas. These Mountain ranges provide
spectacular views through areas of unspoilt, undisturbed landscape which have remained
unaffected and unchanged for hundreds of years.
The identities and traditions of many of the communities throughout the upland has been
influenced and shaped by their location. Many of the uplands are synonymous with conifer
plantations which are less common in the level plains in the County. Many of the Upland
areas are recorded in folklore and song, e.g. The Arra Mountains. Some of the most
significant upland areas in North Tipperary include the well-known Devils Bit Mountain, the
Silvermines Mountains, including Keeper Hill, The Arra Mountains etc.
Hill Walking is a very popular past-time in North

Tipperary, with numerous hill walking groups and
enthusiasts throughout the County. Walks include
loops, way marked walks and trails throughout the
county, many of which extend through the upland
areas. The Slieve Felim Way, a walking trail of
43km, passes through the Slieve Felim and
Silvermines Mountains. There are nine National
Looped Walks in North Tipperary, all of which are
located in the Uplands.
The Beara Breifne Way is a project to develop a walking and cycling route along the spine of
the country, from Beara in Co. Cork, to Breifne in Co Leitrim. The Beara Breifnbe Way
follows the line if the historic march of OSullivan Beara in 1602. In North Tipperary this
historical route passes through the Slieve Felim mountains, north to the Galway border at
Portumna. It is intended that all aspects if the routes heritage will be presented along the
walk and archaeological and ecological surveys are currently being undertaken, Plaques and
map-boards will be erected along the way, covering topics ranging from local mythology to
birdlife and hedgerows.
30

Biodiversity of our Upland Areas
These upland areas support a diverse array of habitats such as blanket bogs and heath,
rock, conifer plantations as well as grasslands. The upland areas are home to important and
rare habitats, many of which are protected by EU legislation, including the Kilduff-Devilsbit
Mountain, Special Area of Conservation, the Silvermines to Slievefelim SAC. The Upland
Areas are also home to many of our protected species, including birds such as the hen
harrier, marlin and peregrine falcon.
1. Slievefelim Mountains
In the foothills of the Slievefelim Mountains, is the Clare
Glens. This area is a designated Special Area of
Conservation. The area is bounded by the Clare River
and includes woodlands comprising
Oak, Rowan, and Willow etc. It is
also home to a rich flora including
rare mosses, liverworts, fungus
and even more significantly the rare
Killarney Fern for which it has
received EU Protection under the
Habitats Directive.
Killarney Fern
Clare Glens
2. Silvermines Mountains
The Silvermines Mountains range includes Keeper Hill, the highest mountain in the Shannon
area. The Silvermines Mountains are a designated SAC and the site includes EU Habitats
Directive Annex I Priority Habitats, Active blanket bog and Species-rich Nardus Grassland.
The site is also home to the very rare Small White Orchid. The Silvermines Mountains also
form part of the Slievefelim to Silvermines Mountains SPA. The Special Protection Area is
one of the most important sites for Hen Harriers in the Country and is also home to the
Peregrine Falcon and Merlin.
31

3. Arra Mountains
The Arra Mountain Range is located in the West of
County, north east of Ballina. Tountinna is the
highest point of the Mountain Range and reaches
457m. While the Mountains are not designated
protected sites under the EU Habitats Directives,
they are rich in biodiversity with furze, heather,
heath and mosses being common. The Arra
Mountains, are a predominantly limestone range
and it is here that the famous Portroe Slate is
quarried.
The site is also the home of The Graves of the Leinstermen. According to local folklore, the
High King Brian Borus daughter was engaged to the King of Leinster. As the Leinster King
was on his way to fetch his betrothed at Kincora, Borus wife, who did not like the match,
sent soldiers to hide on the hill and ambush the Leinster King. A fight ensued in which
several of the Leinster men were slain and the King was mortally wounded. He ordered his
men to carry him to the summit of the mountain so that he might die in sight of Leinster, and
so they did facing the burial in that direction. The slain soldiers were in turn buried down the
hillside under the stones called The Graves of the Leinster Men.
4. Slieve Bloom Mountains
The Slieve Bloom Mountains are located in the north-east of the County, on the
Tipperary/Laois and Tipperary/Offaly Borders. The highest point of the Slieve Bloom
Mountains is Arderin at 527m.
The Slieve Bloom Mountains include a vast area of upland blanket bog and forestry. The
Mountains include a number of trails, including the Slieve Bloom Way, an upland trail
measuring 77km. The Slieve Bloom Mountains are a designated SAC and also an SPA and
are so designated because of its remarkable mountain blanket bog habitat and the presence
of the Peregrine Falcon
5. The Devils Bit
The Devils Bit is one of the most iconic
mountains in North Tipperary.
It is
situated in Barnane, approximately 6km
north-west of Templemore Town. The
Devils bit Mountain rises approximately
478m above sea level. It is here that two
of the Three Sisters, i.e. the Nore River
and The River Suir rise. The Mountain top
accommodates a cross, which is
illuminated at night which was erected by
the local Community in 1954.
The Mountain supports many habitats
such as upland grassland, heath and
woodland and together with the neighbouring Kilduff Mountain form the the Kilduff-Devilsbit
Mountain SAC. The Mountain is also home to the rare, Small-White Orchid and is home to
the Peregrine Falcon, a protected species listed on Annex 1 of the EU Birds Directive.
32
4.3
Nature Reserves
Cabragh Wetlands
A natural flood-plain on a bend of the Suir
between Thurles and Holycross, Cabragh
Wetlands is a vital element in the rivers
ecology. This haven for wetland birds,
plants mammals and insects is a stepping
stone where species can over winter,
extend their range, breed and enhance
prospects
of
long-term
survival.
Designated
a
Special
Area
of
Conservation (SAC) under Irish/European
nature conservation law, the rich range of
habitats includes callows grassland, reed
swamp,
fen,
hedgerow,
riparian
woodland, ponds and stream. It is a core
site for the Munster Ringing Groups
(BWI) data- gathering on the status of bird
species.
The 250 acres is home to thousands of over-wintering birds, with

under pressure species like lark, barn owl, grasshopper warbler,
linnet, snipe, curlew and lapwing well-established. Cabraghs
value as a haven for migrating birds was shown by the ringing in
2012 of a spotted crake, an exceptionally rare Irish visitor. Fed by
pure natural springs and a lime-rich stream, habitats have survived
for centuries. Caddis flies long-considered extinct in Ireland
(limnephilus pati and limnephilus tauricus) were found flourishing
at Cabragh when surveys were carried out for the new Wetlands
Trust in the 1990s. The National Biodiversity Council reported a
very large range of water beetles on site. Cabragh is a great place
to see such rare flowers as summer snowflake (leucojum
aestivum) and meadow rue (thalictrum flavum). The wetland plants
are a botanists delight.
Stonechat
Cabragh Wetlands Trust has the threefold aim of Conservation, Education and Recreation,
working with the National Parks and Wildife Service, local authorities and neighbouring
landowners to maintain healthy habitats and ecosystems. The Trust runs Primary and
Secondary courses to support the curriculum and develop appreciation of nature and mans
relationship with his local heritage/environment. Lectures, music nights, guided walks,
training courses and summer camps offer community use for all from toddlers to senior
citizens, helping support natural and human heritage. Farmers, gardeners, third level
students, artists, craftsmen, writers, photographers, musicians, historians and many others,
make good use of the Centre.
33
4.4
Resources
Who
What
Contact
Provides information and advice

on heritage and biodiversity in the
county.
Promotes heritage and
biodiversity in the county through
a number of projects i.e. heritage
week
www.tipperarynorth.ie/heritage
The National Parks and Wildlife

Service (NPWS) is responsible
for the protection and
conservation of Irelands natural
heritage and biodiversity.
www.npws.ie
Department of
Arts, Heritage and
the Gaeltacht
Oversees the conservation,

preservation, protection and
presentation of Irelands heritage
and cultural assets.
www.ahg.gov.ie
Inland Fisheries
Ireland
Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) the

state agency responsible for the
protection, management and
conservation of Ireland's inland
fisheries and sea angling
resources
North Tipperary
County Council
Planning
Department
NPWS
Cabragh
Wetlands
Nature Reserve set up with the

aim of conservation, education
and research
34
www.fisheriesireland.ie
www.cabraghwetlands.ie
CULTURAL HERITAGE
35
5.0
CULTURAL HERITAGE
Every community has an individual cultural identity. The people of Tipperary have a sense
of pride of place, our distinctive identity coming from our cultural heritage through the ages.
Our culture links us to our native land and illustrates to visitors who we are and where we
have come from. Our cultural heritage is made up of many aspects, including our folklore,
music, dance, stories, crafts, traditions, sport etc.
Music and
Ecclesiast
ical and
Sport
Dance
Monastic
Languag
e
Folklore
Culture
Centres
Farming
and
Agricultur
al
Culture
in North
Tipperar
y
36
Heritage
Towns

5.1
Culture Centres
Lr na Pirce Museum, Thurles

Lr na Pirce is an interpretative centre of the Gaelic Games
which tells the story of the Games in an interactive way. There
are displays on Cuchulainn, landlords, hurley-making and
broadcasting, as well as a hall of fame and the Sam Melbourne
Collection of GAA memorabilia and artefacts.
Nenagh Arts Centre, Nenagh

Situated in the old Town Hall, this arts centre includes a 400
seat theatre and has an exciting programme of events all year
round. The centre focuses on community art and development.
Nenagh Heritage Centre, Nenagh

A museum housed in an interesting mid-19th Century building,
which was built as part of the County Gaol for North Tipperary in
1842. The Heritage Centre provides information about the varied
history of this building, the life of the condemned prisoners and
old Rural Ireland! The Art gallery houses visiting Art, Craft and
Photographic exhibitions. Admission is Free.
Roscrea Castle & Damer House, Roscrea

The stone castle consists of a gate tower, curtain walls and two
corner towers dating from the 1280s. The castle rooms are
furnished and some house exhibitions.
Built in the early 18th century in the Queen Anne style, Damer
House is an example of pre-Palladian architecture. One of the
rooms is furnished in period style. Within the complex, there is a
restored mill displaying original St. Cronan's high cross and pillar
stone.
Thurles Famine and War Museum,
This museum contains one of the largest collections of original
Great Famine and war memorabilia in Ireland.
The Source Arts Centre, Thurles

The centres programme includes film, dance, theatre, ballet,
opera, music, visual arts, exhibitions and family events with
exciting community outreach initiatives.
37
Nenagh Castle
Nenagh Castle is an impressive 13th century construction
which offers visitors a 360 degree view of the town and the
surrounding countryside. It has a spiral stone stairway with
101 stone steps to the top. The Castle is Nenagh's oldest
building, and its construction in the 13th century laid the
foundation for the development of the town.
North Tipperary Genealogy Centre

Trace youre North Tipperary Ancestors - The North
Tipperary Genealogy Centre holds all genealogical records
pertaining to North Tipperary. The North Tipperary
Genealogy Centre (under the auspices of North Tipperary
County Council) provides a family history research service for
people whose ancestors originated in North Tipperary. The
Genealogy Centre is located in Nenagh in The Governors
House, which was part of the former County Gaol. The North
Tipperary Genealogy Centre has been providing a full-time
genealogical research service for over 25 years.
The Centre has computerised all the genealogical sources
pertaining to North Tipperary. In addition to the
commissioned genealogical research service the North
Tipperary Genealogy Centre also provide an On-Line
Research Service www.rootsireland.ie. This facility allows
the Irish Diaspora from parts of the world the opportunity to
search for their Irish Roots from their own home.
The Ireland Reaching Out (IrelandXO) programme, which has been referred to as a national
reverse genealogy project was launched in 2012 and is an initiative to encourage
communities to trace their decedents worldwide offering an opportunity for local parish
communities to extend the numbers of people committed to their parish by inviting its own
Diaspora worldwide to become involved in their place of origin. Local training programmes
are being provided to local communities, funded by North Tipperary LEADER Partnership,
including developing skills in genealogy research and creating an appreciation of cultural
identity.
5.2
Folklore
Folklore in Oral Literature

Folklore can be described as the unrecorded traditions, beliefs and customs of people which
have been disseminated through oral communication and customary examples, passed on
from generation to generation. Folklore in its broadest description includes the social
traditions and material culture in addition to oral literature. The latter are the stories, legends
or tales that people pass down to each other.
There are many examples of local tale and legend associated with our natural landscapes
and landmarks in the County. Legends associated with the Devils Bit and Lough Derg are
mentioned below.
38
The Devils Bit, Templemore.
According to local legend, the mountain got its name because the devil took a bite out of it.
There is a small gap in the mountain between one outcrop of rock (known as the Rock) and
another small plateau. The bite the devil allegedly took made this gap. The legend suggests
that the devil broke his teeth taking this bite and a great chunk of earth and stone fell to
ground, created the area now known as the Rock of Cashel.
Lough Derg.
Lough Derg (Loch Deirgeirt - lake of the red eye) derives its name from the story of the
Eochaidh Mac Luachta, King of Mid-Ireland. Eochaidh removed and offered his one and only
eye as a peace offering to King Connor. His servant brought his blind master to the edge of
the Shannon to wash the wound where he informed the King "Alas! Dear master, the water
is all red with your blood". The King announced then: "Let that circumstance give it a name
for all future time...'Loch Derg Dheirc' shall it be called while the Sionan runs to the sea."
5.3
Ecclesiastical and Monastic
The County has an extraordinary rich religious heritage both in situ and artefacts housed in
institutions elsewhere. Most parishes have traditions and folklore associated with a local
saint. Among the most important sites are:
Lorrha
The ruins of the monastic city of St. Ruadhan bear testimony
to its former importance. Parts of the enclosure of the
original monastery survive, as do fragments of early high
crosses. The present Church of Ireland parish church is
housed in the chancel of a 13th century building. A nearby
motte indicates that the place was fortified by the AngloNormans. Nearer the village lies the ruin of the priory of the
Augustinian Friars. Beside the Catholic Church are the ruins
of the 13th century Dominican Priory with its OKennedy and
MacEgan tombs.
Terryglass
Little remains in this beautiful village of one of Irelands most famous early monasteries.
Renowned as a centre for learning and ascetism during the 9th/10th centuries, the Book of
Leinster was also largely compiled here in the 12th century. Old Court castle on high ground
overlooking the lake seems never to have risen beyond its first floor.
Neighbouring Sites
The Holy Island of Inis Cealtra on Lough Derg and Killaloe are important early Christian sites
bordering the county.
Liathmore
An early monastic site founded by St Mochoemog. Earthworks and two churches survive
with varying detail. The base of a Round Tower was found during excavations in 1969-70.
Nenagh
The ruined Franciscan Friary in Abbey Street and the ruins of Tyone Abbey on the outskirts
of the town, point to Nenaghs medieval importance.
39

Killodiernan Church
A ruined church with Romanesque features and 15th century alterations.
Holycross
The glory of Cistercian architecture is to be found in
Holycross Abbey. Along the banks of the river Suir
this 12th century Cistercian abbey is now restored as
a parish church and major centre for Solemn
Novenas. Its relic of the True Cross made it an
important place of pilgrimage during the middle
ages. The chancel area of the church contains many
exquisite details fashioned in the 15th century: east
window, sedilia, shrine and excellent rib vaulting.
Substantial remains of the domestic buildings of the
Abbey survive.
Miscellaneous Ecclesiastical Buildings

The Parish Churches of North Tipperary (Hayes and Kennedy, 2007) describes in detail and
illustrates some of the later ecclesiastical buildings of all denominations. Accounts of
associated religious features such as graveyards, killeens (burial places for unbaptised
children), holy wells, bushes, bullauns and other such features are to found in various local
publications, a full listing of such is available from Tipperary Studies, Tipperary Libraries,
The Source, Thurles.
5.4
Music and Dance
Irish traditional music and dance, has always been, and remains an integral part of life in
North Tipperary. Music and dance plays an important part in our celebrations, devotions
and, communications as well as our pastimes and religion. Music often reflects the mood at
a certain time and features as frequently at wakes as celebrations. Many localities have
their own song, such as Templederry My Home, My Lovely Fair Ileigh, Dear Old Newport
Town and My Home Town of Roscrea.
Scr
Irish music is today taught in many schools throughout the County and also there is a strong
tradition of music at Parish Level in Tipperary. The Scr competition was established by the
GAA in 1969 to promote Irish traditional music, dance and culture in general include 8
events such as Irish Figure Dancing, Set Dancing, Ballad Group, solo singing and Sean Ns
Dancing. This competition is run in parishes throughout the County and remains a highlight
on many Parish calendars.
Cili
The traditional Irish Ceili remains a feature in
many localities throughout the North
Tipperary.
This gathering which includes
traditional song, music, dance and storytelling
has remained a tradition in many areas,
particularly rural areas, for hundreds of years.
Ceili music is played on an assortment of
traditional instruments such as fiddle, flute, tin
whistle, accordion etc
40

Many pubs hold Ceili nights but these are also very often held in local community halls,
houses, etc. It is also common for some clubs, voluntary organisations and institutions such
as sports clubs, schools and universities to arrange cilidhs on a regular basis, very often as
fundraisers. Dancing at cilidhs is usually in the form of set dances,
Comhaltas Ceoltir ireann

Comhaltas Ceoltir ireann is a voluntary group which promotes and preserves Irish
Traditional Music with branches in many communities in North Tipperary.The group run local
competitions such as Fleadh Cheoil with the qualifiers competing in the annual All-Ireland
Fleadh Cheoil na hireann.
5.5
Sport
Tipperary has a long and proud sporting history. This

plan recognises and appreciates the important role
sport has played and continues to play in the county.
Efforts to research, document and commemorate all
aspects of this tradition should be supported. While
many sports are part of our heritage, it must be noted
that the county is the birthplace of the GAA and was
especially important in the early history of the GAA.
The plan recognises the many voluntary sporting
organisations that exist at local and county level and
aims to encourage these groups to always be aware
of the potential they have to preserve and document their own sporting traditions and history
and that of their own locality.
The positive role of sport in personal development, community life, business and tourism is
also recognised and appreciated. As sport is intertwined with many other aspects of life in
the county, it should not be seen as a stand-alone activity. The benefits to personal,
community, education, business, employment and tourism development should be taken into
account for all initiatives related to sporting activity.
The county has a good infrastructure for many sports and efforts to maintain and improve
facilities should be supported, as well as projects to develop and introduce new sports.
5.6
Farming and Agriculture
The landscape in North Tipperary is varied with an

extensive upland area rising dramatically above the
limestone plains. As mentioned above, the first
evidence of farming in Ireland dates back to the
Neolithic Period, from 4000BC. The first farmers
cleared forests of dense oak and elm to plant crops
and enable their animals to graze. Human
interaction with the natural environment has created
a wide range of distinctive, predominantly rural
landscapes and settlement patterns. The activities
of humans has had the most profound influence on
the contemporary North Tipperary landscape. The
county is dotted with many monuments which are testament to early and more recent
41

agricultural activities including raths, ringforts, lime kilns, mills etc. Other relics of our
agricultural traditions include the traditional farmsteads, including traditional farmhouses and
farmyards, outhouses, as well as forged gates, vintage agricultural machinery and
implements etc. Field patterns dating back to earlier times also provide insights to our early
farming heritage. To this day, farmers are the custodians of the majority of our
archaeological monuments and are responsible for the preservation of same.
Farming activities also impact on other aspects of our heritage, and in particular our natural
heritage. Landowners must take responsibility for the preservation of most of the Countys
Natura 2000 sites and their farming methods and practices impact greatly on the
conservation of these areas.
5.7
Language
While there are no official Gaeltacht areas in Tipperary, 47.11% of the population of North
Tipperary and 42.32% of the population of South Tipperary have Irish according to the
survey of 2011. The Education System develops the Irish language every day through the
schools and the Naonra (preschools) and Gaelscoileanna foster the Irish language, Irish
culture and Irish life in Carrick on Suir, Clonmel, Tipperary Town, Thurles, in Nenagh and
Ballaghmore outside Roscrea. There is also a very successful second level Irish college in
Clonmel. Bilingual signs can be seen throughout the county and Nenagh Town Council
erected beautiful bilingual signs on the streets of Nenagh. The Irish Officer of Comhaltas
Ceoltir ireann organises competitions in Irish at the Fleadhanna Ceoil and Scr. The
GAA also promotes Irish through an Irish Officer. Every month one can attend a
conversation group in Nenagh and Thurles Libraries. Conradh na Gaeilge organises
conversation groups in Carrick on Suir, Cashel, Clonmel, Nenagh and Thurles.
Classes
are also held during the winter months. Other events such as lectures, poetry readings,
drama and musical evenings are held regularly in Dn Mhuire, Nenagh. The building being
over a hundred years old is preserved and Dn Mhuire is regarded as the headquarters of
the Irish language in North Tipperary.
5.8
Heritage Towns
In 1991, under the direction of Bord Failte in conjunction with Local Authorities, Regional
Tourism Organisations and Community Groups, the Heritage Town Programme was
launched. Heritage Towns were selected from over 600 submissions, based on certain
criteria, including their unique heritage resources and potential to develop the tourism
product in their town. Each of the Heritage Towns had to have a critical mass of historic
features and a community totally committed to the highest environment standards. In North
Tipperary, two towns were selected as Heritage Towns, Roscrea and Ballina.
Roscrea
Roscrea has a proud and ancient history going
back many centuries, with many significant
historical sites situated in the town. The town is
situated between the Slieve Bloom Mountains
and the Devils Bit Mountain, on one of the
ancient four roads, the Sl Dla. Roscrea was
historically a very important trading town, with
the Aonach ile, the great fair of Ely which was
known across Ireland and abroad.
42

Roscrea was also a very important Ecclesiastical site, and the evolution of the town can be
traced back to the foundation of a 7th century Christian monastic site by St Cronan. The 8th
century Book of Dimma, which belonged to Roscrea monastery, is preserved in Trinity
College, Dublin. Today, there are several significant sites which remind us of the Monastic
tradition in Roscrea including, the surviving west gable of St. Cronans Church which was
constructed in the 12th Century. Also, to be appreciated in the town is the High Cross and
Round Tower which is among the most impressive Ecclesiastical remains in the County.
Finally, perhaps the most significant Holy site is situated in the townland of Monahincha,
approx 3 miles outside the town. The site, which is known as the Holy Island of Monahincha
(The 31st Wonder of the World), was first recorded as the retreat of the local saint, St.
Cronan, together with St. Molua and St. Canice.
The town is home to the magnificent Roscrea Castle, reportedly built by King John in the 13th
Century. Within the Castle Complex you also find the striking Damer House which was
refurbished in the 1970s.
There are many other important sites within and close to the town including Black Mills at
Church Street, the 15th century Franciscan Friary located at Abbey Street and Sean Ross
Abbey at the eastern side of the town. Close to the town, albeit outside the County
Boundary, 4km from the town you can visit the magnificent Mount St. Josephs Cistercian
Abbey - a haven of peace and tranquillity.
Ballina/Killaloe
Ballina/ Killaloe is a twin township spanning two counties, East Clare and North Tipperary.
The town is divided by the River Shannon and connected by the majestic Killaloe Bridge.
Ballina was an important market town,
taking full advantage of its strategic location
on the River. It was part of the trading route
from Kilrush in East Clare to Liverpool and
London, with trade increasing significantly
with the introduction of steam boats on the
route, the first steamer being introduced in
1827.
Historically, however the importance of the town was even
more significant. The town is believed to have been
occupied by the Dl Cais (Brian Bors family tribe), which
controlled access up the river from Killaloe. At the age of
35, Brian Bor became the leader of the Dalcassians and
two years later, King of Munster. He assumed the High
Kingship of Ireland in 1002 and built his palace at Kincora
in nearby Killaloe. Ballina on the Tipperary side offers a
newly rejuvenated tree lined Park along the riverbank.
This historical context has led to an annual festival
celebrating the life and legacy of Brian Bor. The event that
been running since 1993, but since 2012 has received a huge boost in size and scope, with
the 2013 Gathering and building towards the 2014 millennial celebrations of Brian Bors
final stand at Clontarf.
Brian Bor also lends its name to the Heritage Centre which is located at the Bridge
spanning the two settlements.
43

Ballina/Killaloe is also an important Ecclesiastical site and is home to St. Flannans Catholic
Church, which is noted for its beautiful stained glass windows which were reportedly
designed in the studio of the internationally renowned stained glass artist Harry Clarke. The
town is also home to St. Flannans Oratory and St. Flannans Cathedral and Templekelly
Church and Graveyard.
5.9
Resources
Who
North Tipperary
County Council
Heritage Office
About
Contact
Provides information and

advice on heritage and
biodiversity in the county.
Promotes heritage and
biodiversity in the county
through a number of
projects i.e. heritage
week
www.tipperarynorth.ie/heritage
Nenagh Heritage
Centre/Museum
A history of the old jail

(1842 1847); artefacts
& displays showing
aspects of the history of
the buildings and old
Rural Ireland.
www.tipperarynorth.ie/heritagemuseum
North Tipperary
Genealogy Centre
Provides a genealogical
service for people tracing
their Irish ancestors who
originated in North
Tipperary, Ireland.
www.rootsireland.ie
County Tipperary
Historical Society
and Tipperary
Libraries
The Tipperary Studies

Department of Tipperary
Libraries is a vital county
resource on all aspects of
the heritage and history
of the county and also
home to The County
Tipperary Historical
Society, founded in 1987,
and dedicated to
recording and
disseminating the history,
culture, heritage, folklore
and geography of County
Tipperary.
44
www.tipperarynorth.ie/genealogy
www.tipperarylibraries.ie/ths/
ACTION PLAN 2013 - 2018
45
6.0
ACTION PLAN 2013 - 2018
Objective 1: To promote conservation, management and protection of Heritage in

North Tipperary.
Actions
1.1
To assist and encourage owners of heritage sites/buildings in the

conservation and protection of same, and to facilitate and deliver
projects.
1.2
To promote best practice standards and methodology in the

conservation, management and protection of heritage sites.
1.3
To promote training and advice in the conservation and

management of heritage sites.
Proposed
Partners
NTCC, DAHG,
AT, HC & NTLP.
NTCC, NTHF,
DAHG & HC
NTCC, DAHG &

HC.
Objective 2: To promote awareness, knowledge and appreciation of Heritage in North

Tipperary and to encourage participation in heritage events and activities in the
county.
Actions
Proposed
Partners
Promote and encourage the provision and sharing of heritage

information using traditional, electronic, digital and social media
throughout the county.
NTCC, NTHF,
DAHG, TLib, AT
& HC.
Enhance and promote access to and experience of heritage sites

throughout the county including monuments, built and cultural
heritage and natural heritage sites.
DAHG, NTCC,
OPW, IFA, T, C,
NTLP
Encourage participation in heritage initiatives and projects at

community level including through schools, voluntary groups and
statutory bodies.
NTCC, NTHF,
HC, INTO, TLib,
IFI, BI.
Promote and support heritage events and festivals throughout the

year particularly during Heritage Week, Biodiversity Week and
National Tree Week, throughout the county.
HC, NTCC, BI,

AT, IWT
Promote awareness and appreciation of North Tipperary

Biodiversity Plan and facilitate, encourage and support delivery of
actions therein.
NTCC, DAHG,
BI, C, IWT
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6 Promote and encourage ongoing heritage training, education and

best practice with communities and statutory bodies.
46
NTCC, CAVA &

HC, OPW, T,
NBDC, NPWS.

Objective 3: To promote and progress the collection, preservation and dissemination
of information and research on heritage in North Tipperary.
Actions
3.1
3.2
Proposed
Partners
To collect and collate existing heritage data and information to best

practice standards and make it freely accessible to the public
To undertake inventories, studies, surveys and audits of the built,
natural and cultural heritage in accordance with best practice
standards. To make results freely available to the public in easily
accessible formats.
NTCC, HC,
DAHG, TLib.
NTCC, HC,
DAHG, IWT, BI,
TLib.
Partner Organisations

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47
48
WHO IS ALREADY TAKING ACTION

FOR OUR HERITAGE?
49
7.0
WHO IS ALREADY TAKING ACTION FOR OUR HERITAGE?

Who
An Taisce
What
A statutory body, which has prescribed role

in consulting in planning applications where
architectural and natural heritage are key
issues.
Involved in the conserving and protecting of
Irelands heritage through environmental
projects such as Green Schools, Spring
Clean.
Contact
www.antaisce.ie
BirdWatch
Ireland
Tipperary
Branch
Bord na Mna
A utility service provider, which also seeks

to implement rehabilitation plans to ensure
the conservation and protection of peat to
promote biodiversity and to promote the
recreational use of these areas.
www.bordnamona.com
Coillte
Manage, conserve and protect Irelands

forests. Coillte promotes the sustainable
management and use of forests, including
the
development
of
recreational
opportunities,
by
promotion
and
development of walking and cycling trails.
www.coillte.ie
Promotes the conservation and protection www.birdwatchireland.ie

of birds and the protection of biodiversity.
Undertakes survey and research and
promotes awareness of the importance of
protecting Irelands native bird population.
www.coillteoutdoors.ie
Community
Groups
Local development associations and tidy

town groups, provide grass-roots care for
the built and natural environment of their
communities.
www.tidytowns.ie
Filte Ireland
Promotes Irish heritage in Ireland and

abroad.
www.failteireland.ie
Promote and provide training to the farming

community for the protection of heritage in
the countryside.
Farming
Organisations
50
www.ifa.ie
www.icmsa.ie
www.iscaireland.ie
www.iofga.org
www.organic-trust.org

Who
Heritage
Council
What
Contact
Statutory body which seeks to

advocate a wider understanding of
the contribution that heritage makes
to our social, environmental and
economic well being.
Provides research papers and
guidance notes on the protection of
heritage and funds local authority led
local projects.
www.fisheriesireland.ie
Inland
Fisheries
Ireland
Provides
information
on
the
protection,
management
and
conservation of Irelands inland
fisheries and sea angling resources.
Invasive
Species
Ireland
A Joint venture between the Northern www.invasivespeciesireland.com

Ireland Environment Agency and the
National Parks and Wildlife Service
to address the issues of alien species
in Ireland.
Information is provides on the range
of invasive species, policy related to
individual species, and action plans
to deal with species that threaten
biodiversity.
Irish Seed
Savers
Involved in protecting, conserving,

and utilising Irish plant genetic
resources including rare heritage
seeds, grains, vegetables and fruit.
www.irishseedsavers.ie
www.tipperarylibraries.ie
Local
Historical
Societies
National
Biodiversity
Data Centre
National
Inventory of
Architectural
Heritage
Co. Tipperary Historical Society is

dedicated
to
recording
and
disseminating the history, culture,
heritage, folklore and geography of
County Tipperary.
Towns in the county also have
individual historical societies.
National centre dedicated to the

collation, management, analysis and
dissemination of data and information
on Irelands biological diversity.
National survey of buildings of
architectural and historical heritage in
the County.
51
www.biodiversityireland.ie
www.buildingsofireland.ie

Who
National
Monuments
Service
What
National
Parks and
Wildlife
Service
National regulatory body for the

protection of archaeological heritage
and maintenance the national
database
of
archaeological
monuments.
A statutory consultee on all planning
applications that may have an impact
on archaeological heritage.
www.archaeology.ie
www.npws.ie
Office of
Public
Works
Contact
Monitors the conservation and

protection of nature conservation
areas including Natura 2000 sites
protected under EU Directive
A statutory consultee on all planning
applications that may have an impact
on archaeological heritage.
www.opw.ie
Maintenance of National Monuments

and National Historic Properties.
Heritage Office promotes heritage,

through training, administering grant
schemes and providing an advisory
service to members of the public.
Provides a genealogical research

service for North Tipperary.
Holds archive of genealogical
records for North Tipperary.
North
Tipperary
Local
Authorities
North
Tipperary
Genealogy
Centre
52
www.tipperarynorth.ie/genealogy
www.rootsireland.ie
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
53
8.0
WHERE DO I APPLY FOR FUNDING?
There are a number of statutory bodies which provide funding mechanisms for community
led heritage projects. Funding mechanisms change from year to year depending on the
strategic objectives of such statutory bodies and the funding mechanism available. However,
below is a list of organisations, an outline of the type of scheme available and contact
details.
Who
Examples of Grants/Projects
Contact
The Heritage
Council
Heritage Research,
Management, Education,
Community and Outreach
North Tipperary
County Council
Tidy Towns Grants Scheme

Best Burial Ground Grant
Scheme
Local Agenda 21
Environmental Partnership
Fund
www.ntlp.ie
Rural Development
Programme
Festivals and Events
An Taisce
Green Communities
Green Schools
www.antaisce.org
Department of Arts,
Heritage and the
Gaeltacht
Structures at Risk Fund for

buildings of Architectural and
Archaeological importance.
North Tipperary
LEADER
Partnership
Filte Ireland
Festivals and Participative

Events Programme
54
www.ahg.gov.ie
www.failteireland.ie
Acknowledgements
The preparation of this Plan would not have been possible without the help and support of
the North Tipperary Heritage Forum, many of whom give their time voluntarily. The Heritage
Office of North Tipperary Council would like to sincerely thank the Forum and also the many
other individuals who made submissions and attended the public consultation workshops.
Photograph Credits
Eamon Brennan, Thurles Camera Club
Richard Gough, Nenagh
Aine McCarthy, North Tipperary County Council
Arlene White, Nenagh Heritage Centre
Nora OMeara, North Tipperary Genealogy Centre
Caimin OBrien, National Monuments
Joan Pollard Carew, Visual Journalist/ Set Dancing Instructor/Events Management
North Tipperary Tourism Company Ltd
Adam Tozer, Cabragh Wetlands
Liam ODonnochu, Lr Na Pairce
Frank ODonoghue, Inland Fisheries Ireland
Zena Hoctor Heritage Services
55
56
APPENDICES
57
NORTH TIPPERARY HERITAGE FORUM MEMBERS 2013

Sector
Local Government
Agency
Local Authority
North Tipperary County Council
Representative
Cllr. Billy Clancy, Cllr. John Hogan, Cllr.
John (Rocky) McGrath and Cllr. Virginia
ODowd
Marion Carey, Heritage Officer
Local Development
North Tipperary LEADER Partnership
Rnan Gleeson
Shannon Development
Ruar Deane
National Parks and Wildlife Service

(Department of Arts, Heritage and the
Gaeltacht)
Department of Arts, Heritage and
Gaeltacht
Aine Lynch
Department of Arts, Heritage and

Gaeltacht
(National Monuments Section)
Caimin OBrien
Inland Fisheries Ireland
Frank ODonoghue
Tipperary Libraries/
County Tipperary Historical Society
Mary Guinan Darmody
Nenagh Heritage Centre
Arlene White
North Tipperary Genealogy Centre
Nora OMeara
An Taisce
Charles Stanley Smith
IFA
Thomas Quigley
Coillte
John Moore
Cabragh Wetlands
Adam Tozer
CAVA
Todd McNamara
Irish Wildlife Trust
Sean OFarrell
Birdwatch Ireland
(Tipperary Branch)
Jane Coman
Nenagh Ormond Anglers/

Lough Derg Anglers
Joe ODonoghue
Artisan Food Producers/

Chamber of Commerce
Peter Ward
Elective Representatives
State Agencies
Community and
Voluntary
Sector/N.G.O
Heritage
Organisations
Total
Barry OReilly
23
58
BIODIVERSITY STEERING GROUP MEMBERS 2013

Sector/Agency
Representative
Irish Wildlife Trust/ An Taisce
Sean OFarrell
Irish Wildlife Trust / Birdwatch

Ireland
Inland Fisheries Ireland
Tom Gallagher
Lough Derg Science Group
Dr. Dan Minchin
Irish Wildlife Trust / Cloughjordan

Eco Village
Gearoid OFoighil
National Parks and Wildlife

Section
Aine Lynch
North Tipperary County Council

Heritage Officer
Marion Carey
Frank ODonoghue
59

18
I have a li
ittle hill alone which I love to
t climb:
I look all around on the distant land in
n delight
A brown bog,
, and wood, tilth, and pasture and town,
And, white like silver, a river wide but far
-Summer Days, Thomas MacDonagh
60

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North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

Natural Heritage ................................

Cultural Heritage ... 35

Action Plan 2013 2018................................................................. 45

Who is already taking action for our Heritage?............................ 49

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

Heritage of North Tipperary

Why have a Heritage Plan?

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

What is a Heritage Forum?

NORTH TIPPERARY HERITAGE FORUM 2013

Biodiversity Steering Group

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

The Heritage Council

Rationale of the North Tipperary Heritage Plan, 2013-2018

North Tipperary County Heritage Plan, 2013 2018: Process to Date

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

The Register of Historic Monuments was established under the National

What is the Record of Monument and Places?

Different periods covered by archaeology

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

The Bronze Age, is given its name as the knowledge of

The Iron Age is given its

The Early Christian Period

The Medieval Period is often

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

The Post Medieval Period signifies

Archaeological Heritage over most recent

Windows to our Past

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

Stone Circles/Rows/Standing Stones

Single standing stones were erected for different

Linear Earthwords and Roadways

The oldest archaeological monuments in Ireland

Baurnadomeeney Wedge Tomb:

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

Churches and Graveyards

Perhaps the most accessible and best known of all

Early Christian Sites

By the 15th Century much of the Country was under

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

Responsibility for the protection of our www.archaeology.ie

Provides information and guidance on all

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

North Tipperrary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 201

North Tipperrary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 201

A building may be protected due to its architectural merits or

North Tipperrary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 201

Structures of archaeological interest may also be protected under the Na

Our historic graveyards are places

Buildings or structures may be of interest due to a particular design

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

Records and evaluates the post1700 architectural heritage of

Oversees the conservation,

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018

North Tipperary County Council Heritage Plan 2013 - 2018