Record of Protected Structures
The Galway City Development Plan 2005-2011 sets out a strategy to protect and enhance the architectural and built heritage of the city. This includes the designation of structures as protected structures and their inclusion on the Record of Protected Structures (RPS).
The purpose of the RPS is to record and maintain details of all protected structures within the city. A protected structure is a structure, which the city council considers, is of special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest. Examples of protected structures within the city include: St. Nicholas’ Church, the lighthouse at Mutton Island, the timber sculpture at the Salmon Weir Bridge and the King George V post box at Courthouse Square.
The RPS forms part of the City Development Plan. To date there are 582 structures on the RPS. Structures may be added to, or deleted from, the RPS by the Elected Members of the Council at any time.
What does the Record of Protected Structures Contain?
Each protected structure is listed in the Record of Protected Structures.
The Record of Protected Structures is available for inspection at the City Hall or on the City Councils website. An inventory and external photographs of each protected structure is also now available on the City Councils Online Planning Enquiry System.
These details may be viewed by using the select arrow and then ‘double-clicking’ on a protected structure icon on the map.
Implications for Owners and Occupiers of Protected Structures
Where a structure is protected, the protection includes the interior and exterior of the structure, its curtilage and other structures within that curtilage. Protected structure status does not preclude development or alteration.
Certain works that are normally considered exempted development may require planning permission if those works affect the character of the structure.
Any person who, without lawful authority, causes damage to a protected structure is guilty of an offence.
Measures to Assist Owners and Occupiers to Preserve a Protected Structure
An owner or occupier of a protected structure can seek a Section 5 Declaration from the Planning Authority, which indicates the kind of works that could be carried out, without materially affecting the character of the structure and therefore, would not require planning permission.
A conservation grant scheme is available to assist owners and occupiers of protected structures to undertake necessary works to secure conservation.
Further Information
Further information may be obtained from the Heritage Officer or the Planning Department.