Funding needed to restore castle

MAJOR State funding is required to restore one of Kerry’s best-known picture postcard castles.

The Government yesterday announced that some of the €148,000 ear-marked for heritage projects in Kerry will be used to stabilise what remains of Ballybunion Castle. But, Kerry County Council estimates restoration costs could amount to €500,000.

Overlooking the Shannon estuary, Ballybunion Castle, which was severely damaged by lightening during Christmas 1999, is the most recognisable landmark in the north Kerry seaside resort. The castle also forms the logo of the internationally-famous Ballybunion golf club.