Chapter 8: Gaeltacht Areas, Culture & Heritage

Contents

8.0 Introduction

8.1 Gaeltacht Areas

8.2 Culture

8.3 Archaeological Heritage

8.4 Built Architectural Heritage

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8.0 Introduction

This chapter contains the general planning policies and principles which recognises the importance of identifying, valuing, and safeguarding our linguistic, archaeological, architectural, and cultural heritage for future generations through appropriate protection, management, and enhancement measures or via the sensitive development of this resource

The County’s wealth of built heritage makes it exceptional in Ireland. It includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Skellig Michael, the historic/heritage towns of Listowel and Kenmare, great country houses, demesne landscapes and a significant number of vernacular houses to industrial mills. The identity of the County is linked to its linguistic and cultural heritage and is central to how we see ourselves as individuals, communities and as a County. Our unique heritage is an intrinsic part of the character and attractiveness of the County and is a catalyst in attracting tourism and investment.

8.1 Gaeltacht Areas

The Gaeltacht areas of Chorca Dhuibhne and Uíbh Ráthaigh constitute an important part of the linguistic, social, and cultural tradition of the county. These areas are also rich in traditional ways, folklore, writing, music, and historic and archaeological sites. Every effort must be made to preserve and maintain Gaeltacht traditions.

In particular, these areas are identified by their linguistic heritage as being the remaining areas in the Country where the Irish language is spoken. The preservation of the Irish language is of paramount importance to the Gaeltacht areas and the Country as a whole. It is the policy of Kerry County Council to preserve and promote the use of Irish as a living daily-use language and Gaeltacht communities will be supported in order to strengthen and expand the social networks that nourish Irish as the community language.

The population of the Gaeltacht areas in the county increased marginally from 8,729 in 2011 to 8,756 in 2016.

 Map 8.1: Gaeltacht Areas & Service Towns _{(click to enlarge)}

8.1.1 Policy Context

8.1.1.1 National Policy

The NPF recognises that the existence of areas where Irish lives as a community language is an important cornerstone in the building of a bilingual society in Ireland and provides an environment where the language can evolve naturally in a modern setting.

It is vitally important for the maintenance of the Irish language as the vernacular of the Gaeltacht and for the promotion of the language outside the Gaeltacht that ongoing supports be provided for the language planning process and that support for the Gaeltacht development authority, Údarás na Gaeltachta, be strengthened.

NPO 29 aims to support the implementation of language plans in Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas, Gaeltacht Service Towns, and Irish Language Networks.

New initiatives to plan and develop the Gaeltacht areas and use of the Irish language were introduced by the Gaeltacht Act 2012. The key measures include the development of Language Planning Areas (LPAs) and the development of Gaeltacht Service Towns (GST). The designation of GSTs is a recognition of the provision of services required to support Gaeltacht areas including digital and educational resources.

8.1.1.2 Regional Policy

The RSES promotes and supports cultural diversity in our communities throughout the county, recognising the importance of our cultural heritage, the Irish language and Gaeltacht areas, our music, arts, folklore, and games.

The RSES also supports the statutory functions of Údarás na Gaeltachta under the Gaeltacht Act 2012. The RSES recognises the designation of GST and the location of LPAs in the Region as spatial designations which support the growth and sustainability of Gaeltacht areas. There are two LPAs in the county, Chorca Dhuibhne

(Ciarraí Thiar/West Kerry), and Uibh Rathaigh (Ciarraí Theas/South Kerry). The designated GSTs are Daingean Ui Chúis, Cahersiveen and Tralee. The Gaeltacht Act 2012 places a new emphasis on language planning and each of the LPAs and GSTs are required to prepare a language plan, to be prepared by a lead organisation.

8.1.2 Current use of the Irish Language

The issue of preserving the Irish language is difficult and complex and needs a much broader range of measures than can be included in the County Development Plan. It is important, however, that the County Development Plan supports the Irish language and that the policies contained within the plan are broad and wide-ranging enough to facilitate any future strategies and initiatives that seek to sustain and augment the daily use of Irish. Table 8.1 outlines the daily Irish speakers by Language Planning Area.

	2011			2016
	Population (3+ years)	Speaks Irish daily outside education system	%	Population (3+ years)	Speaks Irish daily outside education system	%
Chorca Dhuibhne (Ciarraí Thiar)	6,714	2,380	35.4	6,708	1,928	28.7
Uibh Rathaigh (Ciarraí Theas)	1,735	148	8.5	1,753	121	6.9

Table 8.1: % Daily Irish Speakers by language Planning Area (CSO)

8.1.3 Preservation of the Irish Language

The main factors that need to be considered in the preservation of the Irish language (within the context of this land use plan) are demographics, economic factors, facilities, and infrastructure. In recent years the Council has been particularly proactive in the promotion of the Gaeltacht areas in Kerry. The Kerry County Council Scéim Gaeilge IV, 2018-2021 aims to promote the provision of services through the Irish language for the people of the Gaeltacht. Such proactive measures are important in ensuring the survival of the Irish language and its associated Gaeltacht culture. It is considered important that facilities be provided which facilitate the teaching of the Irish language to those who desire it.

The Council in the performance of its duties pursuant to the Official Languages Act 2003 has drafted its own plan towards providing:

• A clear policy towards bi-lingual signage,
• Attending the needs of the public and providing services in Irish,
• Attend the needs of the Gaeltacht completely in Irish, and,
• Assign persons with Irish to provide services through Irish, as required.

It is the policy of Kerry County Council to support and promote the Tobar Dhuibhne 2017 (Language Plan for West Kerry), the Plean Teanga Dhaingean Uí Chúis and the Uíbh Ráthach Gaeltacht Interagency taskforce (2019). Kerry County Council will promote the use of traditional Irish signage on all shopfronts, advertising, housing estate names/plaques etc. Kerry County Council also recognises the economic and social contribution that the Coláiste Samhraidh and Gael-Scoileanna make to the area and will facilitate the further development of these facilities.

The Gaeltacht has a significant cultural and economic impact on the towns which serve it. Similarly, those towns have a significant impact on the Gaeltacht itself. Under the Gaeltacht Act 2012, Gaeltacht Service Towns (Tralee, Dingle and Cahersiveen) are defined as those towns situated in or adjacent to Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas and which have a significant role in providing public services, recreational, social, and commercial facilities for those areas. 26 Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas have been recognised for the purposes of the Act. Kerry County Council supports policies to foster and reinforce the positive impact these towns can have on the Irish language as the community and family language of the Gaeltacht.

Kerry County Council actively facilitates those individuals with an intrinsic and economic need to live in the rural Gaeltacht area. Between March 2015 and June 2021, 71.4% of all rural one-off housing planning applications were granted in the Corca Dhuibhne and Uibh Rathaigh Gaeltacht. However, it must be noted that according to the 2016 Census (CSO) there are 2,068 holiday homes in Gaeltacht areas representing 32.5% of Gaeltacht housing stock. In some rural ED’s over 50% of the housing stock comprises of holiday homes. The pressures of such development and associated migration of non-Irish speakers have the potential to affect the viability of the Irish language.

8.1.3.1 Irish Language Policies

Policies and initiatives to preserve and promote the daily use of Irish need to consider the following:

Demographics

• A sufficiently large and young population is needed to maintain the vibrancy of the language.

Economic Factors

• A vibrant economy is necessary so that the indigenous population has adequate opportunity to remain within Gaeltacht areas. Economic activity of a scale and nature that would not require the in-migration of large quantities of workers that do not speak the language.

Facilities

• A range of facilities which would provide adequate opportunity for the teaching of Irish to a range of age groups and people of different backgrounds.  Facilities that would provide for the needs of the community to work, learn, and socialise in a linguistic/cultural appropriate environment

Infrastructure

• The reflection of the Irish language and culture in the material assets of the area, such as buildings, signage etc.

It is important to ensure that any developments within the recognised Gaeltacht areas are of benefit to the Irish language and the Gaeltacht communities of Corca Dhuibhne and Uíbh Ráthaigh.

Certain areas within the Gaeltacht reflect the unique traditions and culture of the area. In particular, the Blasket Islands, with their tradition of literature and island life, represent a cultural tradition of National importance.

Therefore, it is of critical importance to maintain the proportion of active integrated Irish speakers above 67% and ensuring that the proportion of young people speaking Irish is increased. It is the policy of the council to:

• Support and empower younger generations of young Gaeltacht parents to raise their children through Irish.
• Ensure that the education system supports parents in raising children through Irish and results in an Irish medium socialisation process.
• Engage with young people on the vulnerability of the language and the importance of their language behaviour on the future viability of the language.
• Focus on the linguistic rights and needs of native Irish speakers.
• Formulate an integrated strategic language planning process for the Gaeltacht and Gaeltacht proofing all activities undertaken by state organisations.
• Devise language centred economic development strategies for the Gaeltacht.
• Provide incentives and advice to local businesses with regard to good language processes.
• Preserve a percentage of multi-unit developments for Irish speakers. 

8.1.3.2 Linguistic Impact Statements & Occupancy Clause

Kerry County Council shall require the submission of a Linguistic Impact Statement for housing proposals for three or more houses in the Gaeltacht area in order to protect and strengthen the Irish language and cultural heritage of the Gaeltacht areas. All applications for three or more dwellings in the Gaeltacht area will be referred to An Coimisinéir Teanga for comment. A Language Enurement Clause of 15 years duration shall apply to approved developments, of three or more units. The standard of fluency in Irish required to demonstrate compliance with the Language Enurement Clause shall be the standard required to pass Level B2 Meánleibhéal 2 in the Teastas Eorpach na Gaeilge (TEG) exams and shall relate to a nominated adult member of the household.

Kerry County Council is cognisant of its obligations under Section 10(2)(m) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) to include objectives for the protection of the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Gaeltacht including the promotion of Irish as the community language. However, the Council also has obligations under the Housing Act to take into consideration the housing need of social housing applicants irrespective of linguistic ability. Where non-Irish speakers are allocated housing in the Gaeltacht areas, the Council will encourage and support new tenants to acquire Irish language skills through existing language education facilities.

Preservation of the Irish Language
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-1	Promote and develop the Gaeltacht as a centre of linguistic and cultural heritage in tandem with policies which will encourage sustainable economic development in order to ensure vibrant communities.
KCDP 8-2	Seek to enhance the unique cultural identity and secure and sustainability of the Gaeltacht communities into the future.
KCDP 8-3	Encourage the provision of facilities for the teaching / learning of the Irish language and for the production of traditional entertainment and the presentation of culture through the medium of Irish.
KCDP 8-4	Ensure that Council services are provided in the Gaeltacht through Irish in accordance with the Official Languages Act 2003.
KCDP 8-5	Encourage the development of Irish Language schools/Coláiste Samhraidh, at appropriate locations, in the area.
KCDP 8-6	Facilitate and support Tobar Dhuibhne (2017), Plean Teanga Dhaingean Uí Chúis and Plean Teanga Chiarraí Theas (2019) language plans.
KCDP 8-7	Ensure that developments of multiple residential units (3 or more) in An Ghaeltacht settlements shall be subject to linguistic and occupancy requirements in order to protect the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Gaeltacht areas including the promotion of Irish as the community language.
KCDP 8-8	Ensure that a minimum of 66% of Housing Developments on R1 and R4 zoned lands within the Gaeltacht areas shall be reserved for Irish Speakers. The standard of Irish required shall be determined and assessed by Kerry County Council.
KCDP 8-9	Facilitate and promote in cooperation with Údarás na Gaeltachta and all other statutory development agencies, sustainable tourism development in the Gaeltacht areas of the County.
KCDP 8-10	Sustainably support and promote our Gaeltacht areas as key Irish Language Tourism destinations.

8.1.4 Gaeltacht Stakeholders & Economic Development

Kerry County Council recognises the importance and work carried out by all bodies and will continue to support Údarás na Gaeltachta and other stakeholders in their aims to preserve and strengthen Irish as a living language and nurturing of enterprise/employment.

A fundamental role of An tÚdarás is consolidating the economic foundation in Gaeltacht areas. Mindful of the socio-linguistic distinction of the Gaeltacht, an tÚdarás provide measures to promote the Gaeltacht’s competitive advantages for enterprise.

The Council will support the Údarás na Gaeltachta Strategic Plan 2021-2025. This plan seeks to Enable and Strengthen the Sustainability of the Gaeltacht with an overarching aim of developing the Gaeltacht as a creative, innovative, and sustainable region. This strategy is launched at a critical juncture for the Gaeltacht with the goal of encouraging thriving, sustainable Gaeltacht communities. Údarás Na Gaeltachta has two main objectives and five strategic objectives to guide the development of new initiatives and investment in human, natural, and capital resources in the Gaeltacht for the benefit of the community and the environment. Their main language planning objective is to be implemented in 26 language planning areas and three Gaeltacht service towns by the end of 2025.

Údarás na Gaeltachta also works closely with community groups to administer community employment schemes, support youth clubs and community enterprise schemes. It offers incentives and supports to businesses to start, develop, or locate a business in the Gaeltacht area. It provides gteic digital hubs that include hot desk and shared space facilities for remote workers and eWorkers in addition to fully equipped office spaces and incubation units with high-speed internet access to facilitate innovation and concept development.

The council will also endeavour to work with Comhaontas Turasóireachta Chorca Dhuibhne/ Dingle Peninsula Tourism Alliance, Uíbh Ráthach Gaeltacht Interagency Taskforce and all other community groups to promote and develop the tourism and related sectors in the Gaeltactaí area.

8.1.4.1 Uíbh Ráthach Task Force

The Uíbh Ráthach Gaeltacht Interagency Taskforce published an integrated cross sectoral regeneration plan for the region in July 2019 with the focus on employment and quality of life. The plan seeks to create 145 full-time jobs and a 3% increase in population with a focus on developing innovations in alternative farm enterprises, the development of a digital hub and an increase in tourist visitors. The report also targets a 5% increase in daily Irish speakers and the re-establishment of an Irish language summer college, in order to combat falling levels of spoken Irish in the area. This Plan supports the ambitions of the Uíbh Ráthach Task Force and any reports/plans/actions that they promote.

8.1.4.2 Údarás Na Gaeltachta

Údarás na Gaeltachta works as a statutory regional development authority whose responsibilities are outlined under The Gaeltacht Act, 2012. These include socio-economic and socio-linguistic Gaeltacht development and the sustainability of the Gaeltacht areas in matters of economics, linguistics, culture, and social interaction. 

Údarás na Gaeltachta has developed a national network of digital hubs in all Gaeltacht areas known as ‘Gteic’. As part of the network there is space for enterprise, offices, and ancillary activities. These facilities will improve infrastructure and facilities for those who run a business or practice remote working in the Gaeltacht. This will lead to extra facilities, services, and opportunities for people to work from these Gaeltacht locations. These hubs provide a wide range of facilities and services, for example, private office space, shared office space, meeting rooms, and online conference facilities. This network is important in the context of enterprise development in Gaeltacht areas, and also offers facilities/services for remote working. See chapter 9 for further information on co-working hubs.

8.1.4.3 Dingle Creativity & Innovation Hub

The Dingle Creativity and Innovation Hub (Dingle Hub) is located at the Udárás na Gaeltachta Business Park in Cúilín, Dingle. The Dingle Hub is a community enterprise initiative supported by Enterprise Ireland, Eir, Údarás na Gaeltachta, Kerry County Council, Net Feasa, and the Dingle Business Chamber. It aims to foster opportunities, through collaborative projects, to improve core skills, assist the development of new skills and help develop entrepreneurship on the Dingle Peninsula. It is an objective of this plan to facilitate and support the hub.

Údarás na Gaeltachta’s Regional offices are located at Páirc Ghnó Dhaingean Uí Chúis. Comharchumann Forbartha Chorca Dhuibhne Teo and Meitheal Forbartha na Gaeltachta Teoranta in Baile an Fheirtéaraigh offer further economic opportunities for the area.

8.1.4.4 Dingle Peninsula 2030

This is an initiative for a more environmentally and economically sustainable future on the Dingle Peninsula. The goal is the transition of the peninsula into a low-carbon society. The projects and initiatives include the Energy master plan, Precision Farming, Marine-water Quality monitoring and Sustainable tourism & transport. The council will support and facilitate projects and initiatives contained therein subject to compliance with planning and environmental standards.

Gaeltacht Stakeholders & Economic Development
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-11	Support Údarás na Gaeltachta and other stakeholders in their aims to preserve and strengthen Irish as a living language and nurturing of enterprise/employment.
KCDP 8-12	Support the designation of suitable locations as Irish language networks in recognition of community development work in the use of Irish in communities outside of the Gaeltacht.
KCDP 8-13	Support the provision of high-quality broadband and the development of the Údaras Gaeltacht network of digital hubs.
KCDP 8-14	Promote the Gaeltacht areas as economic loci and support the role of Údaras na Gaeltachta in developing economic strengths and opportunities in the Gaeltacht and mechanisms to support access to employment and social enterprise.
KCDP 8-15	Facilitate and support the actions arising from the Uíbh Ráthach Gaeltacht Interagency Taskforce Report and Action Plan 2019-2022 and its successor strategies.
KCDP 8-16	Facilitate and support the Dingle Creativity & Innovation Hub (Dingle Hub).

8.2 Culture   

The County possesses a distinctive and rich heritage and culture. In addition to its intrinsic value, culture provides important social and economic benefits. The County contains many national monuments, Killarney National Park, Kerry Biosphere Reserve, Na Blascaodaí, nature reserves, cultural institutions, historic towns, and villages.

In addition, the rich cultural tapestry can be seen in the people and communities, Siamsa Tíre, the art galleries, museums, theatres, our Gaeltacht areas as well as the festivals that bring great life and colour to many locations.  The management of our built and cultural heritage plays an important role in creating vibrant communities and sustaining local economies.

The Council will promote and support cultural diversity in our communities throughout the county, recognising the importance of our cultural heritage, the Irish language and Gaeltacht areas, our music, arts, folklore, and games, as well as fostering our cultural diversity to foster a more sustainable future; and harnessing our collective attributes to showcase the County to the world.

Kerry County Council is committed to protecting and promoting our culture, language, arts, libraries, and heritage, and to encouraging existing and new cultural forms to flourish. It is an aspiration of the Council that by 2028, Kerry’s reputation as a leader in culture will be strengthened by this commitment. The Council believes that to invest in arts, culture, heritage, and language is a commitment to a healthier, more fulfilled, prosperous, enriched, and successful county.

8.2.1 Arts & Culture

The County has a vibrant living culture that is engrained in the local community, this includes the Irish language, a wealth of heritage and traditional arts, design & crafts as well as contemporary arts practice, across disciplines. The county continues to attract creative people as a place to live and create work, who are inspired by the landscape, seascape and living culture of the area. Importantly, this creative culture enhances the visitor offerings for those visiting the area.

The Plan supports the Creative Ireland Programme/Clár Éire Ildánach and in its enabling work focussed on the Five Pillars of Creative Ireland/Cúig Cholún a bhaineann le Éire Ildánach while supporting the development of a network of community arts and cultural hubs providing space for arts and culture in local communities.

Research for both the Kerry County Arts Strategy 2016-2021 and the Creative Ireland Kerry Creativity and Cultural Strategy 2018-2022 detailed the need for more physical space to support creative practitioners to create, showcase and share their work. This is very evident in settlements such as Daingean Uí Chúis, Listowel, Castleisland, Killarney, where demand for space to create and show work remains high. It is the policy of the plan to support and implement the aims of the Kerry County Arts Strategy.

The council recognises the value of supporting and enabling creative and vibrant communities and artistic engagement. The Council will work in partnership with all stakeholders and continue to advocate for citizen well-being through creative engagement and local interests to best meet the needs of the creative sector, support investment in infrastructure, by facilitating the use of workspaces for cultural activities, upgrading of existing cultural facilities and supporting the adaptation and bringing back into use of heritage buildings.

Arts & Culture
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-17	Support and implement the aims and actions of the Kerry County Arts Strategy 2016-2021 and successor strategies.
KCDP 8-18	Preserve the cultural and linguistic heritage of Gaeltacht areas through the settlement strategy and development objectives of this Plan.
KCDP 8-19	Promote the development of a vibrant cultural and creative sector in the County as a key enabler for enterprise growth, innovation, regeneration, place-making and community development, health and well-being and support measures under Culture 2025, Creative Ireland Strategy 2017-2022, and Action Plan for Rural Development.
KCDP 8-20	Support development of a vibrant network of community arts and cultural hubs as locations for collaboration and creativity.
KCDP 8-21	Support investment in infrastructure and initiatives that develop the role of arts, heritage and culture in the county.

8.3 Archaeological Heritage

The archaeological and architectural heritage of the County is a unique and special resource, which forms a distinctive element of the landscape and local historical identity. The County’s attractive streetscapes, built fabric, archaeological structures and monuments contribute to the historic character and appeal of our settlements and rural areas.

Recorded archaeological remains abound throughout the County ranging in date from the Mesolithic (c.6,000 BC) at Ferriter’s Cove on the Dingle Peninsula to the late medieval churches that occur in many of the County’s graveyards. Building activity and changing farming methods has placed the archaeological and architectural heritage of the County under increasing threat. The archaeology and built heritage of the County is not a renewable resource and it is the efforts of this generation that must ensure its protection and preservation for the future. The council will ensure that decision-making on heritage-related projects and developments are informed by an appropriate level of environmental assessment including assessment of impacts on other environmental receptors such as protected species.

8.3.1 Recorded Archaeological Monuments

There are 8,221 individual monuments listed in the Record of Monuments & Places for County Kerry. Since the Record of Monuments & Places was compiled 1997 on foot of the provisions of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1994 many further monuments and features have come to light and the Sites & Monuments Record (SMR) lists 11,388 individual monuments in the county.

In addition, there remains a wealth of undiscovered archaeological material in locations throughout the county.  The true number of archeological sites and monuments may number up to 12,500. 

These recorded monuments include a number of monuments that have been afforded special protection by being in the ownership or guardianship of the state. The details of these monuments are available at https://www.archaeology.ie/sites/default/files/media/pdf/monuments-in-state-care-kerry.pdf. The county also contains the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sceilg Mhichíl and three monuments that are included in the Western Stone Forts nomination on Ireland’s ‘Tentative Listing’ – Staigue, Caherconree & Benagh.

8.3.2 Archaeological Landscapes

Given the richness of the archaeological heritage of the County it is of little surprise that there are a number of very significant archaeological landscapes around the County. These landscapes are of regional, national and in some cases international significance and every effort should be made to ensure their protection and preservation. The nineteen landscapes identified are described in detail in Volume 3.  These important landscapes are listed for special protection with special emphasis on objectives that protect the monuments and their landscape settings but also their visual aspect and monument inter-visibility.

Map 8.2:  Identified Significant Archaeological Landscapes _{(click to enlarge)}

1. Tiduff/Glenderry (Kerry Head)
2. Brosna West/Carrigeenwood/Meenyvoughaun
3. Mount Brandon & Area
4. Lough Adoon/Kilmore/Ballyhoneen
5. Caherconree/Beheenagh/Curracullenagh
6. Ballycarty
7. Glanbane/Garraundarragh
8. Coumeenoole North & South/Fahan/Glanfahan
9. Bray, Valentia
10. Teeromoyle/Gortnagulla/Caherlehillian/Coulagh
11. Kealduff Upper & Lower, Letter West and Coomasaharn
12. Derrynafeana
13. The Paps
14. Ballaghbeama/Dereeny
15. Mangerton/Cumeenduvassig/Bausheen/Slaght/Knockeens
16. Staigue
17. Drombohilly Upper and Lower/Uragh
18. Dromagorteen/Crinagort/Curragraigue/Erneen
19. Killaclohane/Brackhill

8.3.3 Underwater Archaeology

Kerry has a rich underwater cultural heritage in its marine, coastal, and inland waterways. Marine sites include well-known shipwrecks such as the Armada vessels Santa Maria De La Rosa and Trinidad; and the French naval vessels La Bayonesse and La Vipere.

There are no verified crannóg sites in the county but that does not mean that the numerous lakes do not contain finds or features relating both to sites located onshore and activity within/on the lakes and rivers themselves – bridges, fish-traps, and platforms. Artefacts may also be deposited in lakes and rivers as part of a ritual deposition or as a result of accidental loss, particularly at crossings or fording points.

A number of artefacts have been revered from watercourses including a sunflower pin from a fording point on the River Laune, a hoard of copper axes from the Carhan river near Cahersiveen, bronze horns from Lough Leane, and a number of artefacts from the dunes at Ballyeagh near Ballybunion. Increasing levels of erosion due to climate change are likely to expose even more coastal and intertidal artefacts and features in the future.  

The Underwater Archaeology Unit (UAU), Department Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht is engaged in the compilation of an inventory of shipwrecks recorded in Irish waters, including the Kerry Coast. The Shipwreck Inventory of Ireland includes all known wrecks for the years up to and including 1945 and approximately 7,000 records have been compiled and integrated into the shipwreck database thus far.

The Council acknowledges the Climate Change sectoral Adaptation Plan for Built and Archaeological Heritage (2019) and will facilitate the rolling out of the actions and priorities contained therein.

Archaeological Heritage
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-22	(i) Secure the preservation in situ of all sites, features, and objects of archaeological interest within the county. In securing such preservation the Council will have regard to the advice and recommendations of the National Monuments Service, Department of Culture, Heritage & the Gaeltacht, the National Museum of Ireland, and the County Archaeologist. (ii) Ensure that proposed development (due to location, size, or nature) which may have implications for the archaeological heritage of the county will be subject to an Archaeological Assessment which may lead to further subsequent archaeological mitigation – buffer zones/exclusion zones, monitoring, pre-development archaeological testing, archaeological excavation and/or refusal of planning permission. This includes areas close to archaeological monuments, development sites which are extensive in area (half hectare or more) or length (1km or more) and development that requires an Environmental Impact Assessment.
KCDP 8-23	Ensure the protection and preservation of archaeological monuments and features, not yet listed in the Record of Monuments & Places (RMP), Sites & Monuments Record (SMR) and such unrecorded, through on-going review of the archaeological potential of the plan area. In securing such protection the council will have regard to the advice and recommendations of The National Monuments Service, Department of Culture, Heritage & the Gaeltacht, and the County Archaeologist.
KCDP 8-24	Protect and preserve the underwater archaeological heritage of the county. In assessing proposals for development, the Council will take account of the Archaeological Potential of rivers, lakes, intertidal and sub-tidal environments.
KCDP 8-25	Ensure that development (including forestry, renewable energy developments and extractive industries) within the vicinity of a recorded monument, zone of archaeological potential or archaeological landscape does not detract from the setting of the feature and is sited and designed appropriately and sympathetically with the character of the monument/feature/landscape and its setting.
KCDP 8-26	Ensure the active protection of the 19 identified, significant archaeological landscapes outlined in Volume 3 with particular emphasis on the landscape settings, views to and from the landscapes and monument/feature inter-visibility within these landscapes.
KCDP 8-27	Protect archaeological/historical graveyards within the county and to encourage and promote their maintenance in accordance with legislation, conservation principles and best practice.
KCDP 8-28	Protect and preserve the industrial, military, and post-medieval archaeological heritage of the county as reflected in such sites as mills, lighthouses, harbours, Valentia cable station, gun batteries, towers, and demesnes. Proposals for refurbishment, works to or redevelopment of these sites should be subject to a full architectural and archaeological assessment.
KCDP 8-29	Promote public awareness and facilitate appropriate access to archaeological monuments through public engagement and appropriate advisory guidance.
KCDP 8-30	Promote awareness of the impact of climate change on the archaeology of the county, and promote appropriate identification, assessment, and adaption measures to reduce climate risk and develop resilience strategies for the archaeology of the county.
KCDP 8-31	Continue to research and record the archaeological heritage of the county and to promote the timely public access to the results of archaeological research and excavation.

8.4 Built Architectural Heritage

8.4.1 Built Heritage

Kerry has a rich architectural heritage which not only comprises buildings of national importance, including country houses, churches, but also more modest structures including thatched dwellings, traditional shopfronts, and post boxes. It reflects the development of the County through the ages, linking the past to the present and maintaining an intrinsic aspect of the County’s cultural identity. The wide variety of building types contributes to the special character of the County and is a unique resource, which once lost or damaged, cannot be replaced. The County’s historic buildings and townscapes should be treated as an asset and positively conserved and enhanced for the benefit of residents and visitors alike. 

Part IV of the Planning and Development Act provides the legal basis for the conservation of Kerry’s built heritage.  The Record of Protected Structures lists those structures which are afforded statutory protection for their special categories of significant interest. The Act also allows for the protection of groups of structures and places which are of special character under Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) designation.  It is the policy of the council to seek the protection and conservation of protected structures and their settings and designated architectural conservation areas.

Kerry’s built environment is vulnerable to climate change, particularly in terms of increased rainfall, warmer conditions, storm surges, maladaptation, pests and moulds, soil movement and storm damage.  These potential impacts can cause loss of historic fabric (damage to roof, interiors, loss of detailing, increased dry and wet rot infestation, flooding damage, destabilisation of foundations, increased risk of vacancy due to damage etc). These structures can also support protected species such as bats and barn owls, species now synonymous with our built heritage.  The potential loss of historic structures from the landscape can also negatively affect biodiversity.  It is the policy of the Council to seek to address the impact of climate change on its built heritage assets. 

It is also the policy of the Council to support the retention of existing buildings in recognition that rebuilding creates significant quantities of carbon emissions, as well as the loss of the pre-existing embodied carbon.  In particular, the Council acknowledges the role of these historic structures to mitigate climate change, in recognition of their embodied energy, use of local natural materials and to deliver compact growth outcomes.

The council will continue to advise and work with the owners of historic properties, protected structures, and properties in Architectural Conservation Areas through the Kerry Building Conservation Project. As part of this the Council will continue to deliver conservation seminars, practical workshops and training, advice guidelines, grant workshops, toolkits, and traditional skills videos. 

Built Heritage
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-32	Prepare an Architectural Heritage Plan for the County including marine, industrial, and agricultural heritage.
KCDP 8-33	Support and facilitate the rejuvenation of Kerry’s historic built environment through the Kerry Building Conservation project.
KCDP 8-34	Address the impact of climate change in accordance with the Built and Archaeological Heritage Climate Change Sectoral Adaptation Plan and Kerry County Council’s Climate Change Adaptation Strategy 2019-2024.
KCDP 8-35	Facilitate and support the growth and development of Architecture Kerry (Creative Ireland Kerry Programme).
KCDP 8-36	Seek the retention and appropriate repair and upgrading of historic, buildings, structures, road bridges, railway bridges and tunnels throughout the county, subject to environmental assessment.
KCDP 8-37	Ensure that rejuvenation and placemaking projects in the county enhance the physical, social, architectural, and historic settlement pattern of the locality.

8.4.2 Record of Protected Structures (RPS)

The Council has prepared a Record of Protected Structures (RPS) and the full list of Protected Structures and Proposed Protected Structures can be found in Volume 3.  A structure may be added to the RPS if it is of special architectural, archaeological, historical, cultural, artistic, scientific, social, or technical interest.  Unless expressly outlined, the protection includes the interior and exterior of the structure, including fittings and fixtures, and all structures within its curtilage.  Curtilage typically refers to the land associated with the protected structure, but each case is assessed on its merit.  The owner/occupier of a protected structure is legally obliged to ensure that the structure is preserved and not endangered through harm, decay, or damage.

Planning permission is required where works and development would materially affect the structure or any element of the structure.  An owner or occupier may apply for a declaration under Section 57 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) from the Planning Authority as to the type of work that would not materially affect the character of the structure and which works would or would not require planning permission.

Record of Protected Structures
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-38	Ensure that any development, modification, alteration, or extension affecting a protected structure and/or its setting including designed landscape features and views, is compatible with the special character of that structure.
KCDP 8-39	Support owners of protected structures to carry out conservation-led repair and rejuvenation of their protected structures.
KCDP 8-40	Prohibit demolition or inappropriate alterations and replacement of elements of protected structures where they would adversely affect the essential character of a protected structure.
KCDP 8-41	Review the Record of Protected Structures as needed during the lifetime of the Plan.

 8.4.3 Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA)

 Architectural Conservation Areas (ACAs) are specially chosen for their contribution to the character and heritage of County Kerry.  An ACA is a place, an area or a group of structures or streetscapes of special interest and can be urban or rural. An ACA may or may not include Protected Structures. The Council recognises the significant role the county’s ACAs play in terms of unique and attractive places, visual amenity, sense of place and tourism and seeks to ensure their special character is protected and enhanced in all development proposals.  In an ACA the carrying out of works to the exterior of a structure will be exempted development only if those works would not materially affect the character of the area. Planning permission must be obtained before significant works can be carried out to the exterior of a structure in an ACA, which might materially alter its character. This designation allows the evolution and development of an area while maintaining its essential character and distinctiveness.   

Architectural Conservation Area (ACA)
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-42	Ensure developments in an ACA have a positive impact on the intrinsic character of the area, respect the existing streetscape and layout, and are compatible in terms of design, materials, traffic, views, and intensity of site use.
KCDP 8-43	Resist demolition in an ACA and avoid the removal of structures and distinctive elements including boundary detailing, historic street furniture, cobblestones, flagstones, post boxes, water pumps and ensure new elements are respectful of the character of the historic ACA environment.

8.4.4 Vernacular Architecture

Vernacular Architecture is generally classified as the homes and workplaces of the general population built by local people using local materials. This architecture was once commonplace but is becoming increasingly rare. The loss of traditional thatched buildings in the county is increasing and every effort will be made by the Council to encourage and facilitate the survival of the remaining examples. Notably, vernacular architecture can teach us many lessons, including appropriate siting of a dwelling to maximise “free” energy and the ability to work with the landscape. 

By its very nature, vernacular buildings are typically the most sustainable form of construction, built with local materials in a style responding to local conditions, with a low energy use.  It is the policy of the Council to promote the retention of vernacular buildings, both urban and rural, throughout the county and to seek their incorporation into development proposals in light of their positive contribution to the landscape quality of the County, their embodied energy, and to help deliver compact growth.

Vernacular Architecture
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-44	Encourage the retention, appreciation and appropriate revitalisation of the vernacular-built heritage of Kerry by deterring the replacement of good quality older buildings with modern structures and by protecting these buildings where they contribute to the character of an area and/or where they are rare examples of a structure type.
KCDP 8-45	Promote the sympathetic maintenance, adaptation, and re-use of the county’s vernacular-built heritage, including thatched structures, in recognition of their role in tourism, economic revitalisation, climate change, placemaking and quality of life.
KCDP 8-46	Complete the vernacular survey of the Dingle Peninsula and carry out a vernacular survey of the Iveragh Peninsula during the lifetime of the Plan.

8.4.5 Historic Landscapes

Historic gardens, demesnes, parks, woodlands and estates were deliberately planned and laid out, for artistic affect.  At times, natural features such as woodlands, water bodies, landscape contours, were used to create a specific view or setting, at other times, these changes were artificially made.  Buildings, walled gardens, gate lodges, boundary walls, decorative gates and statues were used to create a particular view or vista, and at times, to present a public image of the estate to the surrounding population.  Historic landscapes and demesnes reflect a tangible link with our past, the traditions, skills of design and execution, of a society and economy. 

A survey completed by the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage of the historic gardens of Kerry revealed almost 150 historic demesnes or gardens, within the country, many of which have disappeared.  Further study and analysis are required to properly assess the integrity of the remaining features of this important resource.

Key elements of a designed landscape can include:

• Setting associated with a protected structure, buildings within the curtilage of a protected structure, presence of architectural conservation area
• Follies, gate lodges, statues
• Views and terminal vistas
• Groves, groups of trees, planted avenues leading to a historic building or place
• Deer parks or walled gardens and orchards
• Parkland – often large in scale and provided setting for the principal house, now defined by wide expansive space without internal boundaries, with groups of trees, woodlands, specimen trees and avenues
• Water features – large scale such as canals or rivers, or ponds, lakes or indeed, the coastline

Historic Landscapes
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-47	Carry out further research and analysis to identify, survey and promote the conservation of historic landscapes in Kerry.
KCDP 8-48	Require that proposals for development within historic designed landscapes be sensitive to and respect the built heritage elements and green space values of the site.

8.4.6 Valentia Transatlantic Cable UNESCO Project

Valentia Transatlantic Cable Foundation has sought UNESCO World Heritage site status for the cable station and associated buildings. This application is fully supported by Kerry County Council, and the local authority will work closely with the Valentia Island Development Company, Valentia Island Trans-Atlantic Cable Foundation, and Department of Culture, Heritage and Gaeltacht and other state agencies and institutions in Ireland and abroad to achieve this goal.

Valentia Transatlantic Cable UNESCO Project
It is an objective of the Council to:
KCDP 8-49	Facilitate and support measures to secure the designation of Valentia Trans-Atlantic Cable Station, Cable Terrace, “First Message” Building, Structure in the Telegraph Field, and ensemble of associated sites as a trans-national serial UNESCO World Heritage Site with its partner site in Hearts Content, Newfoundland, Canada.