The Fort Dunree Project

Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) – Section 177AE(4)(a)

Notice of Application by Donegal County Council to An Bord Pleanála for Approval

Of Proposed Development at Fort Dunree, Buncrana, Co. Donegal

TAKE NOTICE In accordance with Section 177AE(4)(a) of the Planning & Development Act 2000 (as amended) and associated  provisions of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), that Donegal County Council (“the Council”) proposes to carry out a development  known as ‘The Fort Dunree Project’ and in relation thereto:-

1. The location of the proposed development is on a site measuring 26 hectares, that includes two protected structures, these being Fort Dunree (RPS 40901813) and Dunree Lighthouse (RPS 40901830), located in the townland of Dunree, Buncrana in the County of Donegal, F93 C424.

2. The nature of the proposed development is a conservation led restoration and upgrade of the existing visitor experience at Fort Dunree, consisting of the following:

1. Redoubt Fort/High Fort: construction of a new exhibition space, viewing gallery, comprising an events space, exhibition area, new toilets, staff room, lift and external viewing area. Restoration of the existing buildings and stairs and removal of the non-original first floor structure; reinstatement and partial realignment and upgrading of pathways along the external and internal perimeter of the Redoubt Fort Walls; and works to repair and stabilise the Blockhouses.
2. High Guns: restoration of the High Guns and upgrade of pedestrian access.
3. Lighthouse: conservation and refurbishment of lighthouse including partial removal of an internal wall and roof repairs. External landscaping including new footpath links between existing paths.
4. Lighthouse/Northern Walkway: new projecting walkway, with associated metal guarding and flooring.
5. Lower Fort/Lough Swilly Walkway: construction of new walkway with glass and metal balustrades/guarding. Replacement of existing car park with hard and soft landscaping (native vegetation). Provision of two accessible parking spaces. Construction of new drawbridge to allow a new accessible route to the cafeteria and Lower Fort.
6. “The Village”: conservation and upgrade of four no. block houses with new connecting pathways and repair of existing pathways. Conservation and repair of the three existing metal clad billet buildings. Full restoration of four brick buildings. Two of these buildings to facilitate, souvenir shop, pay station, toilets, store and changing facilities (Welcome Buildings) including the upgrade and extension of existing cafeteria and extended hard standing.
7. Infrastructure and Associated Ancillary Works: upgrade of existing vehicular and pedestrian access points and the associated internal road layout. New internal access road to the Welcome Buildings and High Fort to permit access for a wheelchair accessible electric vehicle. Provision of new carpark with car parking spaces, accessible spaces, EV charging spaces, minibus/camper-van spaces and coach spaces including an accessible drop off point. Replacement and upgrade of wastewater treatment plants, new toilets, fencing, lighting, landscaping, security gate and barriers. Upgrade of electricity and water supply.

3. The Council proposes to seek the approval of An Bord Pleanála for the proposed development.
4. A Natura Impact Statement (“NIS”) has been prepared in respect of the proposed development.
5. An Bord Pleanála may give approval to the application for development with or without conditions or may refuse the application for development. 
6. During the period from 6^th August 2024 to 20^th September 2024 (inclusive), plans and particulars of the proposed development, including the NIS, will be available for inspection free of charge or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the following locations during the opening hours specified:

• An Bord Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, D01 V902, between the hours of 9.15am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).
• Donegal County Council, County House, Lifford, Co. Donegal, F93 Y622, between the hours of 9:00am – 12.30pm and 1.00pm – 4.30pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).
• Carndonagh Public Service Centre, Malin Road, Carndonagh, Co. Donegal, F93 YV1N, between the hours of 9:00am – 12.30pm and 1.00pm – 4.30pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).

7. Alternatively copies of the said documents are also available for inspection only by appointment, in the Saldanha Suite, Fort Dunree, Dunree, Buncrana, Inishowen, County Donegal, F93 C424, between the hours of 10:00am – 4.30pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).

OR

The documents are available for viewing or download at any time from 30^th July 2024 to 20^th September 2024 (inclusive) at  https://consult.donegal.ie/

8. Submissions or observations may be made in writing to An Bord Pleanála (64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, DO1 V902) with respect to the proposed development not later than the 20^th September 2024 in relation to:

(i) the implications of the proposed development for proper planning and sustainable development in the area concerned,

(ii) the likely effects on the environment of the proposed development, and

(iii) the likely significant effects of the proposed development on a European site, if carried out.