Over 100 People Gathered At The Gates Of Castletown House In Celbridge Last Night

Thursday, 5 October 2023 12:45

By Caoimhe Harney

Kildare North's four TDs met with the OPW Minister earlier this week to voice their concerns

Over 100 people gathered at the gates of Castletown House in Celbridge last night to stop a van from driving up its avenue.

Campaigners gathered alongside security, accompanied by Gardaí, attempted to drive up the avenue.

Gardaí say they're aware of a "demonstration involving a small group of individuals" in Celbridge last night.

At around eight o'clock, a woman stood her ground as security looked to make their way up the avenue which leads up to Castletown House.

Locals are opposing plans for a rear car park to be moved to the front of the popular landmark, which they say will affect access to the house and traffic in the town.

The Office of Public Works, which took over the estate in the 1990s, tried to buy the private lands but were outbid.

A new developer will not agree the same terms as previous developer with the OPW for access to the current car park and entrance.

Kildare North's four TDs met with the OPW Minister earlier this week to voice their concerns and the concerns residents, and they're to meet again today.

Sinn Fein TD, Reada Cronin says "Castletown has lit a fire in the community's heart" and that she'll "continue to join and support the vital, peaceful, dignified public protest."

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