Oldcourt Castle will be repaired
AN archaeologist from the National Monuments Service has inspected the damaged 600-year-old Oldcourt Castle in Bray with a representative of the owner.
The owner of the 15th century tower is the process of arranging an emergency repair in the breach to prevent access to the castle.
Speaking after receiving the confirmation from the National Monuments Service Deputy John Brady said: ‘Unfortunately, over the last few months serious damage has been caused to the castle which dates from the 1430s.
‘I welcome the confirmation that an archaeologist from the National Monuments Service has inspected the damaged Oldcourt Castle in Bray. He met on site with a representative of the owner,’ he said.
‘ There are a number of concerns, firstly for public safety. Children have been seen on top of the castle having accessed entry through the damaged walls. Secondly is the vandalising of a protected structure.
‘I have been in contact with the Monuments Service over the last number of months and they are very concerned about the acts of vandalism which have taken place to the protected structure,’ said Deputy Brady.
‘ Thankfully a site visit has now taken place and immediate action is needed to secure the castle.
‘ The damage to the walls needs to be restored and a plan put in place to ensure the castle is protected into the future.’
There had been concern locally as young people were entering the 15th century structure.
‘ This is highly dangerous and many parents may not realise that their sons and daughters are involved,’ said Cllr Joe Behan last month.
Damaging a recorded monument is a specific offence under the National Monuments Acts and is subject to severe penalties on conviction.
The Monuments Service have also said that they are available to assist An Garda Síochána in the event that sufficient evidence is secured to support a prosecution of the offenders who are causing the damage.