An Taisce urges observant development

ENVIRONMENTAL watchdog group, An Taisce, said yesterday it is going to keep a close eye on planning applications made by or on behalf of religious orders in an attempt to ensure that such development is consistent with the ethos of such groups.

Department of the Environment guidelines protect many such structures which are considered listed or protected buildings.

But more and more protected buildings are coming on the market as their owners or trustees struggle to maintain them.