North Mayo woods conservation projects approved

TWO conservation projects at Belleek Woods in Ballina have received the green light from council planners.

They relate to the Hermitage and boathouse structures in the woods.

Conservation repairs and refurbishment works to the Hermitage include structural repairs, repointing of the ruins, general conservation based repairs, removal of trees, as well as new signage and new fencing.

Boathouse works include repairs to the existing concrete columns, general landscaping of the site, as well as new signage.

The Hermitage is a ruined structure along the public walkway in Belleek Woods. It is signposted and mapped as an amenity but is fenced off from the public and partially overgrown, making it difficult to discern.

A report submitted to planners explained that is is proposed to carry out conservation repairs.

Similar preservation works were approved at the boathouse.