Stately home’s €10m revamp convinces minister

A stately home in North Cork can play an important part in the region’s socio-economic future.

The claim came from Brian Hayes, the minister with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, after he received a €10m blueprint on the future of Doneraile Court and Park.

According to the authors of the plan, Doneraile Development Association, the minister’s reaction has been very positive. He has given permission to open up part of the State-owned Georgian mansion as a tea room on a six-month trial basis.

Chairman Willie Hallihan said his organisation hopes to open the tea room in the summer, in co-operation with Ballyhoura Fáilte.

Mr Hallihan said following meetings with Mr Hayes and North Cork-based TD Sean Sherlock, the OPW carried out a number of works at the house and park which had noticeably increased visitor numbers.

The office reinstated three bridges within the park and is preparing to restore the main entrance arch.

Mr Hayes said the works would build upon restoration of the coach house, gardeners’ cottages, the creation of a car park, road improvements around the park and the erection of interpretative signs.

He said an architectural assessment is also being carried out with a view to further enhancing pedestrian access from the town, through O’Riordan’s Gate.

Mr Hallihan said they are also examining the feasibility of holding major events in the North Park section, which would include point to points, gymkhanas and athletic events.