Planning Observation

Proposed 'King John's Castle and Castle Lane Visitor Experience Upgrade' Ref: File C11/3

To: Limerick City Planning Department

From: Simon Spratt, Farmhouse, Dromalta, Cappamore, Co. Limerick Previously of: 15 Castle Barracks, Limerick City.

I hereby submit my observations on the above planning proposal in good faith and to the best of my abilities.

Signed Tuesday 10th May 2011:

In particular reference to Shannon developments document contained in file C11/3 Background Section 1.4 (page 3 of 7) ...and should have a much higher visitor throughput. This in my belief shows an emphasis on throughput and makes no reference to where visitors are being sent to after being through the castle and associated buildings. I see great value in enabling the visitor to enjoy the castle, associated buildings, and local historic streets such as Nicholas Street and to visit the medieval quarter and indeed historic Limerick City. There seems to be an intention to parachute the visitor in and out and process them to get numbers up. Appears to lack a long socio-economic vision. I believe that this is backed up by further observations.

The partial extension and re-purposing of the present 'interpretive centre' - Cafe terrace in castle's courtyard Although it may not be the intention of the plan to extend the existing interpretive centre, I believe that the net effect will be to do so. The supplied 'Visitor Centre Sections' drawing number 208, shows a substantial suspended courtyard terrace with decking, glazed balustrade and stainless steel handrail. The visual impact of this in my belief is negative and intrudes on the visual authenticity and indeed fabric of the castle courtyard. The detailing of the Cafe terrace parasols that are shown in Shannon Development's 3D renderings is very much open to interpretation. - Increased glazing to existing interpretive centre on courtyard and Nicholas Street sides

The glass and steel 'black box' design was necessitated by the discovery of an undercroft and significant archaeological remains where originally the Nicholas Street facing castle curtain wall was to be rebuilt circa 1990. At the time of creation Punch Engineering described the interpretive centre as 'possibly temporary'. I believe that a reduction in scale of this modern structure, possibly on a phased basis would reduce its negative impact on this authentic Norman fortification/castle. Considering that twenty years will pass since the creation of the present structure, it is reasonable to seek new engineering insights to the creation of a lightweight curtain wall. Indeed this curtain wall was demolished circa 1791; a restoration visually would add immense authentic visual value. Insertion of a Cafe and food preparation on the ground floor

I am concerned that there may be a negative net effect to the existing grocery shops of Nicholas Street that sell take away items such as coffee and tea. Also it may add to the throughput of customers who must walk through Nicholas Street (not an appealing experience for them presently) to get to the closest restaurant that is in the Medieval quarter, being The Locke Bar.

The partial extension and re-purposing of the present 'interpretive centre' Continued. The Cafe's associated Cafe terrace has been mentioned in an earlier observation.

Castle Courtyard Provision of a number of demountable structures ref: drawing Number 203

The structures lack dimensions and specific detailing. My concern is that in practical terms demountable equates to semi-permanent and that the way that these are fixed to the castle courtyard will damage the fabric of the castle courtyard and the underlying structures. Also will lighting and or heating be provided in these structures and how are the cables being routed while respecting the fabric of the castle courtyard? Is there an intention to stage jousting in the area marked 'tilt yard'? What is the practical purpose of this area long term? Does it add authentic historical context? The indicated props such as 'Stocks' may have photo opportunity value; is there any authentic historical context to them? If so then I see great value in showcasing Limerick's local carpentry skills by sourcing the props such as wooden 'Stocks' locally. Possibly sourcing the wood locally would add another layer of value.

Castle Towers Removal of existing exhibits and insertion of new ones

With alterations to related existing electrical and mechanical installations have enough specifics been given to care for the historic fabric of the towers?

Castle Lane Buildings Change of use of 'Tavern at the Castle' aka 'Castle Lane Tavern' to new visitor exhibition. This Tavern when open had the following facilities: Pub, restaurant, banqueting, music venue I believe that these facilities added greatly to the amenities that slowed a visitor down and allowed them to renew themselves. Throughput was not the overriding factor and visitors were encouraged to visit all of the medieval quarter and Limerick City. A great deal of value is contained in this and both local and visitor can gain greatly from its re-opening. A clinical 'visitors only', 'no locals' message is a damaging one to Limerick. Limerick needs as much inclusivity and positivity as possible. Besides this, on a practical level many hundreds of thousands of Euro have been invested already. Looking at the Planning File's photos of the beautiful Tudor style interior of that Tavern I cannot see the value in ripping it out. The 'Streets of Limerick' exhibition is to my belief an isolated entity. Closing of The Limerick City Museum

The Jim Kemmy Museum / Limerick City Museum has great value. The problem is put forward that it is too small. Being respectful to both the grant made available for redevelopment and to the need for extension I believe that more space can be readily made available adjacent to the existing Museum. Castle Lane is a modern building, handsome indeed. What better place to maintain Limerick City Museum in the castle that symbolizes the Coat of Arms of Limerick City? When Limerick City Museum is allowed to extend in the existing location the National Museum could loan pieces that are relevant to the history of King Johns Castle.

The Entrance to King John's Castle The proposed re-development maintains the present interpretive centre as the entrance to the castle. The apparent health and safety problems with opening the original grand entrance to King John's Castle could be turned to an advantage adding greatly to the authentic value of this iconic Norman castle fortress. A ramp with railing could be constructed at a relatively low cost over the existing steps. The steps are a relatively recent addition. An example that I found may be found Direlton Castle, Scotland. It is possible.

The Untold Story of 18th Century Military Barracks and 1930's Council Housing - Fascinating, of tremendous value, untold. Many hundreds of lives, innumerable stories.

My Thanks to you, for my inclusion in this Part 8 Planning process. Best Regards, Simon Spratt