Members of The Corrs and Mary Wallopers among objectors to new housing development in Dundalk

Members of The Corrs and The Mary Wallopers have joined a growing list of objectors against a proposed large-scale housing development near Dún Dealgan, a historic site in Dundalk, County Louth. The development, which could see up to 1,058 homes constructed on a 39-hectare site, has sparked controversy over its proximity to the national monument, which is tied to Irish mythology and history. The planning application, submitted by Grandspect Ltd in November, seeks a ten-year permit to build 765 houses, 150 duplexes, and 143 apartments. The site lies close to Dún Dealgan, an elevated hill known locally as Cú Chulainn’s Castle, a name rooted in ancient legend. The site features a motte and bailey dating back to the 12th century, with the current structure being referred to as Byrne’s Folly, a term stemming from the pirate who built it in 1780. The proposed development is situated along Castletown Road and Mount Avenue, including four apartment buildings ranging from four to six storeys tall. Plans also include the creation of a heritage park on surrounding lands to the east of the castle. According to the planning documents, the castle itself is a protected structure and is not located within the development site. It also contains a standing stone, another protected structure. Louth County Council received 240 submissions regarding the planning application, with a final decision expected by Monday, 22 July. Among the objectors are Charles and Andrew Hendy of The Mary Wallopers, Jim and Andrea Corr of The Corrs, and other musicians such as Zoe Conway, Gerry O’Connor, and Jinx Lennon. Cultural groups like An Taisce, Uisce Eireann, and the County Louth Archaeological and Historical Society have also raised concerns. Local residents, including members of the Mount Avenue Residents Association, and several councillors representing the Dundalk Municipal District have contributed their perspectives. A notable submission came from local photographer Nicola Bishop, whose petition gathered 6,383 signatures. Jim Corr expressed shock and disbelief in his submission, stating that the development should be abandoned due to its cultural and historical significance. His sister, Andrea Corr, emphasized the irreplaceable nature of Dún Dealgan, noting that once the landscape is altered, it cannot be restored. She described the site as a unique intersection of archaeology, history, and mythology. The county council acknowledged the importance of the castle and motte as key landmarks in the area and integral to Dundalk’s heritage. While they cannot comment on specific aspects of the application, they highlighted a buffer zone of 5.2 hectares around the castle designated as open space in the current land use zoning map. This area offers an opportunity to establish a heritage park, preserving the site's surroundings. The council also pointed out that the land in question has been zoned for residential development for more than two decades. They stated that any potential impact of the proposed development on the castle and motte’s setting will be thoroughly evaluated during the planning process. As the council prepares to make its decision, the debate continues over whether the development can coexist with the preservation of a historically and culturally significant site. The outcome will likely influence future discussions on balancing urban growth with heritage protection in the region.