COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Monday, November 08, 2021
QUESTION NO.20
QUESTION: Councillor F. Timmons
To ask the Chief executive for a detailed report into SDCC and the Community Monuments fund for the last three years ?
REPLY:
The Community Monuments Fund (CMF) was introduced under the Jobs Stimulus Package in 2020. The CMF was established to allow capital investment for essential conservation works to our valuable historic, architectural and archaeological sites and structures. Eligible projects are drawn from the following categories:
a) projects proposed by a Local Authority in relaiton to archaeological monuments in public ownership, where a clear heritage focus and community or public benefit has been demonstrated;
b) projects proposed by a Local Authority on foot of applications form private applicants who are the owners or custodians of relevant archaeological monuments where there is a tangible public benefit;
c) projects with a clearly defined heritage focus and community or public benefit proposed directly to the Department by a State-funded organisation working in the heritage area.
In 2020 the Councils Architectural Conservation Officer, LUPT applied for funding under the CMF 2020 under Stream 1 in order to obtain financial assistance to carry out large scale conservation repair and stabilisation works at St. Finian’s Church, Esker, a Protected Structure site. Works were successfully completed and were partially funded under the Community Monuments Fund and LUPT Architectural Conservation Capital fund to protect and conserve the Ruined Church.
The CMF is running again this year and South Dublin County Councils Architectural Conservation Section and Public Realm Section worked together to apply for funding for phase two works. Successful applications under the CMF were announced by Minister Noonan TD on the 16th June 2021, with St. Finian’s successfully awarded funding under Stream 3 – which provides grant offers of up to €30,000 for enhancement of access infrastructure and interpretation (including virtual/online) at archaeological monuments (including COVID 19 public health measures). A total of €16,421.59 was awarded which covers the total cost of the works under phase two.
Works under the second phase include; removal of 'ghost' graffiti from church walls to return site to original state. The reinstate and repair of the Father MacCarten Memorial, which is of great historical significance, the memorial will be given pride of place within the graveyard. The insertion of pea gravel within the Church will allow for a more suitable material to protect the area. New Interpretive signage will be provided at the site, this is due to Society of Old Lucan, Community Group involvement and the need for interpretive signs to raise understanding, further awareness and appreciation of the site. The Councils Architectural Conservation Officer and Public Realm are continuing to work together to complete the project by the end of November 2021.