Lorrha Rathcabbin Community Action Plan 2016 – 2019

April 2016

Meeting Place of 3 Parishes, 3 Counties and 3 Provinces. Building a stronger and more integrated community into the future, together.

Table of Contents

1. Section One 1.1 Introduction and Methodology 1.2 Process and Framework 1.3 Lorrha Rathcabbin Community Profile 1.4 Current Initiatives 1.5 SCEAL Community Survey

2. Section Two 2.1 Strategic Analysis 2.2 Profile of Key Sites

3. Section Three 3.1 Actions

Acknowledgements

This Community Action Plan aims to be a guide for community initiative in Lorrha over the next 1 -5 years. The plan was written by Trisha Purcell, North LEADER Partnership with assistance from the members of the Lorrha SCÉAL group, and members of the wider community. A number of facilitated workshops were held at Moatfield GAA club house, facilitated by NTLP staff Trisha Purcell and Gearóid Fitzgibbon. The input received at these workshops, along with publically available information from Pobal Maps and the CSO were incorporated into the final draft which was presented to the community for comment.

1. Section One

1.1 Introduction and Methodology

The economic and social forecast for is positive and it is predicted nationally that we are on the road to recovery. Nationally unemployment rates have dropped, job opportunities are improving and quality of life is returning to what is once was. These improvements are slower to reach some areas and in particular rural locations. Whilst Lorrha Rathcabbin has a wealth of highly significant historical and natural heritage there is a sense that this is not being capitalised on to benefit the local community. This plan will record the natural resources for the community whilst looking towards the most sustainable way to develop them.

Section 1 of the plan provides an introduction to the plan and its objectives. It includes a discussion on Process and Framework and provides a brief socio economic/demographic profile of the parish. It also examines current initiatives underway locally.

Section 2 makes up the bulk of the document and seeks to record the key sites and interest points throughout the parish. A strategic analysis seeks to illustrate graphically how the parish could work together to counter the pull factors out of the area towards surrounding town centres. The maps and text analyse each site, explores opportunities and examines some of the limiting factors currently in place.

Section 3 gives details of the actions that have been developed as part of the plan.

There are a number of initiatives that are currently underway that have taken the first steps towards realising the potential of Lorrha Rathcabbin, our main objective will be to build on this work over the next 3-5 years. This Community Plan process seeks to highlight aspects of the parish that are unique and worthy of showcasing. The process will assist with the development of a series of achievable and realistic actions to enable local community groups within the parish to progress. The plan will belong to the community. If used correctly it will assist in leveraging funding from a variety of sources to achieve goals. The plan will also be a way to communicate to agencies that Lorrha Rathcabbin is serious about upping visitor numbers to the parish, showcasing their unique cultural and natural heritage and reaping the socio economic benefits that this will brings to a small rural community.

1.2 Process and Framework Steps followed in the development of the Action Plan are outlined below: 1. Introductory meeting with community representatives in Rathcabbin village to explore areas of focus for the project and existing initiatives currently underway. 2. Desktop study and familiarisation with geography, physical layout and general environment of the parish. Identification of some of the features and assets of the parish along with possible areas of weakness in the community. 3. One on one and small group meetings with community representatives. Site visits to Redwood Bog, Little Brosna Callows, Lakeen Castle, , Lorrha Ecclesiastical Village, The Stolen Railway, Lorrha Community Hall etc: 4. Preparation of DRAFT Community Action Plan for distribution and comment to all interested parties. 5. Facilitated workshop session with the community to critique the plan, identify gaps and enable feedback on future actions. Assign key actions to willing parties. 6. Launch of Lorrha Rathcabbin Community Action Plan 2016.

1.3 Lorrha Rathcabbin Community Profile

The parish of Lorrha Rathcabbin is located in a central position nationally and in the very northern section of close to the Offaly and Galway borders. A short section of bounds the parish to the west. The topography within the parish is gently undulating with large areas of lowland wetlands associated with the , River Little Brosna and Lough Derg. A national route passes through the south western part of the parish, the N65 that links with Galway. The parish is dissected by two regional roads running north south and east west, the R438 and R489 respectively. A large amount of vehicular traffic passes through the parish via the national and regional routes. According to the 2011 Census the population of the parish of Lorrha Rathcabbin is 1712.

Age Range 0-12 13-18 19-24 25-44 45-64 64+ Persons 301 132 100 412 474 293

The most interesting aspect of the age profile is that 293 people in the parish are over the age of 64. This represents over 17% of the population. When compared to the county rate (13%) this is high. The unemployment rate in the overall parish of Lorrha Rathcabbin in 2011 was 15.9%, this is lower than the national unemployment rate at the time of 19%.

The Pobal Deprivation Index is a method of measuring the relative affluence of disadvantage of a particular geographical area using data compiled from various censuses. A scoring is given to the area based on a national average of zero and ranging from approximately -35 (being the most disadvantaged) to +35 (being the most affluent). Review of the following aspects helps to inform the score:

- population change - age dependency - lone parents ratio - Primary education only - third level education - unemployment rates and - proportion of local authority rented housing

Lorrha Rathcabbin Deprivation Index Map

Looking at the parish as a whole there are no major causes for disadvantage or deprivation in the parish. Statistically Lorrha Rathcabbin is comparable to the County Tipperary and nationally during the time of the last census in 2011. The parish of Lorrha Rathcabbin is measured as being ‘marginally below average’ or ‘marginally above average’, this is in line with the rest of Tipperary and national expectations. There is one small area 217123002 Lorrha East that is classified as disadvantaged and it is worth looking at in more detail.

Small Area 217123002 Lorrha East has a deprivation score of – 10.4 and is measured as ‘disadvantaged’. The population of this area is 166, 84 or just over 50% are considered dependent as they are under the age of 24 (42 people) or over the age of 64 (42 people). 33 people or nearly 20% have a disability and are also dependent. The unemployment rate in this area was 30% for males in 2011 and 22% for females in the same year which is very high compared to the national average of 19% in the same year. The population change in this area between 2006 and 2011 reduced by 7.8%. There are a number of social housing units located in this area of the parish.

The 2011 Census returned that nearly as many local households used peat and turf as used oil for their home heating (211 out of 495 households in the Electoral Divisions of Lorrha East,Lorrha West, Rathcabbin, Graigue and Redwood) . This is significant in light of the ban on turfcutting in the local bogs. It is important that efforts are made to assist these households to switch to other fuel sources, especially those experiencing fuel deprivation.

In summary, it is important that the Community Action Plan ensure supports exist for those who need it in the parish of Lorrha Rathcabbin. Understanding the socio economic profile of the area provides suggestions as to where projects would be best placed to full fill the needs of the community at large.

1.4 Current Initiatives

There are a number of current initiatives being undertaken in the parish that are a strong start to attracting visitors to the locality and providing opportunities to the local community. The following is a summary of the activities and what has been achieved to date and should be built on.

- Sceal Lorrha Rathcabbin – A parish group formed in June 2015 called S.C.É.A.L. (Social Community Enterprise for the Advancement of Lorrha/Rathcabbin). Sceal is the Irish for story and Lorrha Rathcabbin has a story to tell to visitors and locals alike. The formation of the group arose as a response to the everyday challenges of our rural community. How do we promote the parish as an interesting and inspiring place to visit and live? This group aims to promote the entire parish as a whole, working with a broad range of organizations and with neighbouring parishes. Social and economic benefits for the whole community is their main goal and to make this happen through various sectors such as sport, crafts, heritage, history, tourism, small businesses and agriculture. The group is focused on setting up a heritage centre/community shop as a hub to promote the parish as a whole. The dual purpose of this centre would be to attract tourists to the parish and act as a focal point for local people to meet. The group has an excellent Facebook page that is regularly updated and a very good way to keep communication open to the entire community. They are currently conducting a community survey that will feed into the development of this plan. - Tipperary County Economic Plan 2015 - 2020 – Tipperary County Council have highlighted Lorrha under Section 8.1 Framework Priorities and Strategic Actions: E 1.6bIdentification, promotion and support of specific themes of tourism development which build on Tipperary’s inherent strengths and which are linked to the identified needs of the domestic and international market. Themes to include : food tourism, equine, water- based tourism along the River Suir and Lough Derg; outdoor activities around the Munster Vales and the heritage experience (Cashel, ,

Roscrea, , Fethard, (sport), and Lorrha. This action relates to Tourism Marketing, Experience and Destination Development for Co. Tipperary development of new tourism products and supporting business expansion along with increasing domestic visitor numbers. Responsibility lies with the lead co-ordinator Tipperary Local Enterprise Office with supporting partners Fáilte Ireland, Tipperary Co Co and LEADER Partnership. - Rathcabbin Sensory Garden – This small garden in the centre of Rathcabbin village provides a picturesque and safe space for the local community to enjoy the sensory delights of a designed and planted garden. Motivated by children with special needs and environmental enhancements for the village, this garden was developed and constructed by the community under the last Rural Development Programme and is a precedent for community development in the parish.

- Lorrha Community Park – This picturesque community park and garden located in Friar’s Close Housing Estate. It was developed by Lorrha Development Association under the Rural Development Programme and completed in 2012. Features of the park include formal play equipment for children, a number of murals depicting native plants and animals, timber gazebo and bridge feature, seating and lighting. Maintenance

equipment was also purchased under this project to ensure the park stays looking neat and tidy. The park is an excellent addition to the amenities of the village and should be highlighted in any future signage plans as it is not visible from the Main Street of the village. - Michael O’Meara Memorial – The stone is located in Lorrha village on the Main Street and has recently received its own QR Code. It pays homage to an Irish soldier whom received a Victoria Cross for bravery in the 1st World war. The memorial was completed in 2013 by Lorrha Development Association and also funded under the Rural Development Programme. - The Lamp – The Lamp is and annual parish historical journal produced by the Lorrha and Dorrha Historical Society (formed in 2010). There have been 3 editions of this magazine to date and they are expert in capturing the factual and anecdotal histories of the area. This publication is a very important resource for the community and assists in focusing local interest on the past. Reflecting on the past is an effective way to focus on what is most important to the community in the future. The Historical Society are successfully running guided walking tours around the parish to visitors where and when required. - Lorrha Rathcabbin Better Energy Community - Lorrha Rathcabbin Energy Team (LRET) (www.facebook.com/LREnergyTeam )was established with support from North Tipperary LEADER Partnership and Drombane Energy Team. Together with a number of other community energy teams, LRET successfully obtained funding under the 2014 & 2015 Better Energy Communities Grant Scheme from Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland (SEAI). 57 local homes and 1 community buildings benefitted from the work, including 30 homes in receipt of Fuel Allowance. This represented an investment of over 500,000 in the local community. LRET is a founder member of Energy Communities Tipperary Cooperative – a community owned company seeking to save energy, save money, and create investment and jobs in Tipperary communities. www.energycommunities.wordpress.com - Ormond Way – The Ormond Way passes through the parish of Lorrha Rathcabbin and through the centre of Lorrha Village. The implementation of this Tipperary section of the national Beara Breifne Way route brings substantial opportunities to the parish of Lorrha Rathcabbin. The route follows in the footsteps of the famous March of O’Sullivan Beara, lead by Donal Cam O’Sullivan Beara, chieftain of the O’Sullivan Beara clan. This march left Beara in Cork in December 1902 where the entire clan left after the Spanish and Irish forces were defeated in battle by a crown army. On the journey the clan passed through many counties including Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Offaly, Galway, Roscommon, Sligo and Leitrim. Only 35 people of an original 1000 reached their final destination in January 1603 due to hunger, exposure or battle. The length of this walk along with the interesting and varied scenery and points of interest along this pilgrimage will attract a wide array of international and local visitors. - Ireland’s Ancient East – Lorrha village has been recently included in the Ireland’s Ancient East Fáilte Ireland tourism promotion. Fáilte have developed an umbrella destination called Ireland’s Ancient East. This branding will ensure that the area is presented in a cohesive and unified manner and extensive resources are provided to assist groups with marketing and promotion.

1.5 SCEAL Community Survey

During the early part of 2016 a community survey was developed and distributed by SCEAL to establish the viability of a community hub for the parish. The survey was distributed by hand and also online to all the households across the parish of Lorrha Rathcabbin. Of 615 households 58 returned an answered survey representing 9% participation and an average response to this type of survey.

Generally the results showed a very positive reaction to the proposal for a community hub in Lorrha village with 45% of respondents indicating that they would use the facility weekly or more. When asked would they purchase shares in the facility if set up as a co-op, a huge majority of 98% agreed that they would.Respondents indicated that they would use the hub for a number of reasons, most popularly for meeting friends for tea and coffee and taking classes. There was a strong indication that the hub should be a showcase for local fresh produce, be a centre for advertising local events and act as a parcel acceptance service. For visitors local people would like to utilise the hub to provide guided tours, souvenirs and geneology information. There was strong interest reflected in the survey in terms of volunteering time and skills for the hub and associated events, a total of 42 individuals pledged their support. In regards to community events there is a strong interest in attending weekend family events focused on walking, food stalls/ markets and information talks.

Most respondents considered the parish’s greatest asset to be archaeology and history followed by heritage and natural environment in particular The Shannon River and Lough Derg. Many of the suggested activities for locals and visitors were geared towards spending more time in the great outdoors

- Fishing - Guided walks - Canoeing - Cycling - Camping/glamping - Anti litter campaign - Improving access to the lakes and rivers - Greatly improved signage for key sites in the parish - Bird watching Training and workshops were also mentioned throughout the survey as being of interest to the community. Interestingly the majority of responses were received by women and 81% of respondents feel safe or very safe in Lorrha Rathcabbin. The SCEAL community survey is very helpful to reflect the overall opinion of the parish community.

All of the above initiatives are already having an impact in the community of Lorrha Rathcabbin. The Community Action Plan seeks to build on this good work by prioritising projects and targeting effort during the next 3-5 years. It takes what has already been done and sets it in context assisting the community in moving forward in a more defined way.

2. Section Two

2.1 Strategic Analysis

Lorrha Rathcabbin, Co

Tipperary

Located in the most northern part of Tipperary, Lorrha Rathcabbin shares a boundary with and . The northern boundary follows the River Shannon and Little Brosna and small area boundaries define the southern edge of the parish. Two regional roads cross the area, the R438, north south, linking Nenagh, Co Tipperary and Athlone, Co Westmeath and the R489, east west, linking Birr, Co Offaly and , Co Galway. The national route connecting Nenagh and Galway , N65, passes through the south western area of the parish. There are two villages in the parish, Lorrha and Rathcabbin. Three regional centres, Portumna, Birr and lie only a short distance outside the parish bounds.

Strategic Analysis

Regional Pull: The three regional centres, Portumna, Birr and Borrisokane lie only a short distance outside the parish bounds and provide a wide variety of services to the community in Lorrha Ra thcabbin. There is a strong social pull towards these centres and the community is drawn to each in line wi th their geographical location in the parish. There are 3 national schools in the parish, in Rathcabbin, Lorrha and Redwood, however secondary education is provided for outside the parish in Birr, Portumna, Banagher and Borros iokane.

Natural Landscape Feature: The Ri ver Shannon and Little Brosna are the dominant natural landscape features in the area. The rivers and associated callows could be seen as a physical barrier to the northern boundary of the parish however, their existence also provides a highly unique opportunity in terms of rural recreation and activity tourism.

Community Focus: Activity pulls the community together in the form of Ga elic Athletics Association. This facility is located centrally in the parish and provides an excellent club house for community use.

Strategic Action

Inward Focus: Identify what works to bring the whole community together in Lorrha Ra thcabbin. Endeavour to hold more of these events and or activities as a relationship building and reinforcement tool.

Centre of Learning: Historically the parish has been an important centre of learning with Brehon law developed in Redwood Castle. Can the parish become a centre for place based learning on for example medieval Ireland, bog and or riparian biodiversity in the future?

What is currently on Offer: Conduct a community audit of what is on offer in the parish ie accommodation, food, activities passive and active and other general services. Discover where the ga ps are and how they may best be filled. Work together to do this.

A Unique Representation: Lorrha Ra thcabbin is a fascinating, unique and rich community culturally, historically and in terms of na tural heritage. Bring all the elements together, know what and where they are and work to promote it locally and outside the parish on national level.

2.2 Key Sites Site Name: Redwood Bog, Little Brosna Callows and Redwood Castle, Rathcabbin.

Archaeological Inventory Record:

Co GALWAY Record No Description

Co OFFALY TN004-001001 Castle Tower house - Heavily restored 4 story tower house adjacent to the ‘Tougher of Redwood’. Built in the 15th Century stronghold of Little Brosna Callows the McEgans and reputed to be a famous school of history and law.

Redwood Bog Little Brosna Callows TN004-001001 Sheela na gig – crudely carved pathetic figure.

General Description:

Redwood bog is located in the far north of the parish immediately south of the Shannon and Little Brosna Rivers. It is approximately 6 kilometres north west of Rathcabbin village. The bog covers an area of Little Brosna Callows Redwood Castle 6 square kilometres and incorporates a high level of biodiversity in its rich habitat. This site would currently be considered very remote. Co TIPPERARY Vehicular access consists of a number of cul-de-sac laneways that penetrate the landscape and enable land owners to harvest peat from the area. The access lanes do not reach the banks of the Shannon or Little Brosna but literally dissolve into the landscape. There is a large fl ood plain and areas of callows associated with the Rivers that drama tically transforms the landscape at times of high rainfall. The bog is under the ownership by a variety of parties including ESB National Parks and Wildlife Service and private individuals.

Site Name: Redwood Bog, Little Brosna Callows and Redwood Castle, Rathcabbin.

General Description:

Little Brosna Callows is designated a Special Protection Area (SPA). The ma in habitat is the extensive area of low-lying callow grassland in the fl oodplain of the river. These grasslands are subject to prolonged fl ooding in winter, early spring and occasionally in summer. The River Little Brosna Callows is an internationally important site for wintering wa terfowl, being notable both for numbers and diversity of species.

Redwood Castle is located west of Redwood Bog and was constructed by the De Cougan family in 1210. It has a long and varied history that bega n with its strategic location adjacent the River Shannon. Visually the castle is very impressive and sits on a high point overlooking the Shannon and wetland areas surrounding it. The castle is currently owned privately and will possibly be coming up for rent in the near future.

Opportunity: The entire northern region of Lorrha Rathcabbin parish is required to be looked at as a single large scale project and in detail. The ma in advantage that the bulk of the areas has in terms of development is that it is in community ownership. Redwood Castle is currently accepting visitors and is habitable during the summer months. There are a wide variety of options for a site like this including bird watching, walking and or bike trails and biodiversity tours. The fact that this site is remote and has limited access means that currently it will appeal to those who want to get away from it all and have a mini adventure. The riparian habitat plays a prominent role in this and any proposals should look at water activities such as kayaking, boating, fishing and swimming etc. There are several precedents of small water craft and canoe trail development along the Shannon and it is a key objective of Waterways Ireland to expand on this in the future. There is no signage from Lorrha or Rathcabbin to identify these sites. Key to this site is how activities are linked across the regi ons not just superficially but on a more meaningful level where effort is shared. This is the meeting point of 3 Provinces, 3counties and 3parishes and has the potential to be marketed as such.

Site Name: Lackeen Castle, Lorrha

Archaeological Inventory Record:

Record No Description

TN004-022001 Castle – tower house. 4 story tower situated on a natural stone outcrop in low undulating countryside

TN004-022002 Ba wn

th TN004-022006 Wa termill - An early 17 century mill standing on a little brooke running through sd lands of Lackeen.

th TN004-022005 17 Century House. Poorly preserved remains of a 2 story ga ble end house.

TN004-022004 Deserted medieval settlement. No visible rema ins.

General Description: located approximately 5 km east of Lorrha village this site is interesting as it has a number of features that are relatively intact and interesting for a casual visitor. It is possible to enter the castle and climb the stairs to windows from which one can get an expansive view of the surrounding countryside. The Stowe Missal (an Irish illuminated manuscript written in Latin) was discovered at Lakeen Castle and now resides in the Irish National Muesum. The history and heritage of the site is not communicated as there is no interpretive information at the site. Access is poor with vehicular parking being on the side of the booreen and farm gates to climb for pedestrians to reach the structure. There is a wealth of visual interest in the form of stone carvings, architectural details and settlement patterns.

Site Name: Lackeen Castle, Lorrha

Opportunity: There is great potential at this site as it is publically owned and managed by the OPW. Sensitively designed and informative signage along with improved access would enable this site to attract greater visitor numbers. The links between Lackeen Castle and the Stowe Missal should be highlighted in any future developments on the site.

Site Name: St Ruadhan’s Church of Ireland, Lorrha

Archaeological Inventory Record:

Record No Description

TN004-010008 Church – Rectangular structure dated from AD 1037.

TN004-010009 High Cross – remains dated 8/9th Century

TN004-010010 High Cross - remains dated 8/9th Century

TN004-010011 Ecclesiastical Enclosure - The large roughly circul ar enclosure consist of two earth and stone banks and intervening fosse with entrance gap at the south east. It encloses all the features recorded in this table.

TN004-010012 Mott and Bailey -

TN004-010013 Graveyard -

TN004-010027 Kiln – corn drying –three cereal drying kilns with a radiocarbon date of AD 545-660. Evidences of oat, barley and wheat. A well was also evidenced here.

General Description: This site has a long, rich and interesting history that is bought to life though story telling and anecdotes. There is a wealth of visual interest in the form of stone carvings, architectural details and settlement patterns. This site was where the first Irish Whiskey was distilled by the monks of St Ruadhan.

Site Name: St Ruadhan’s Church of Ireland, Lorrha

Opportunity: There is currently no interpretive information available on the site. This is a limiting factor for visitor appreciation in terms of its importance and interest beyond its visual appeal as a ruin. Features such as the Motte and Bailey are not obvious to the naked untrained eye and so come to life with artists reconstruction works. This site is naturally part of a walking tour for Lorrha Ecclesiastical village that should be formalised for inclusion in ’ Ancient East.

Site Name: Dominican Friary, Lorrha

Archaeological Inventory Record:

Record No Description

TN004-010001 Religious House – Dominican friars – founded in 1269 by Walter de Burgo, Earl of Ulster. The building wa s dedicated to St Peter the Martyr.

TN004-010002 Graveslab -commemorates Patrick O’Hogan of Sherragh and his wife Johanna Dalachan who had this tomb make in 1626. TN004-010003 Bullaun Stone – there are 2 stones either side of the entrance to the new RC Church.

TN004-010004 Bullaun Stone – there are 2 stones either side of the entrance to the new RC Church.

TN004-010005 Wa termill – 3 story limestone rubble structure associated with the Dominican friary monastery.

TN004-010014 Graveyard

th TN004-010015 Wa ll Monument – 17 Century altar tomb dedicated to the O’Kennedy fa mily.

th TN004-010016 Memorial Stone - Early 17 Century memorial stone dedicated to the O’Kennedy family.

TN004-010017 Memorial Stone - dedicated to Constantine Egan and his son John who erected this monument in 1689.

TN004-010018 Graveslab -

Site Name: Dominican Friary, Lorrha

Archaeological Inventory Record:

Record No Description TN004-010019 Graveslab – unearthed at the friary in 1908. TN004-010022 Stone Head - One of three stone carvings, this one appears to be a male with long hair, a headband across his forehead and oval eyes. Taken from the adjoining Dominican Friary and incorporated into the frontage of the RC church. TN004-010030 Stone Head - One of three stone carvings, this one appears to be a male tightly cropped hair, exposed forehead and oval eyes. Taken from the adjoining Dominican Friary and incorporated into the frontage of the RC church. TN004-010031 Stone Head - One of three stone carvings, this one appears to be a winged angel. Taken from the adjoining Dominican Friary and incorporated into the frontage of the RC church.

General Description: This site has a long, rich and interesting history that is bought to life though story telling and anecdotes. There is a wealth of visual interest in the form of stone carvings, architectural details and settlement patterns. Not mentioned in the archaeological inventory record are stained glass windows in the new church by Michael Healy and date from 1909.

Opportunities: Currently no interpretive information is available on the site, a limiting factor for visitor appreciation in terms of its importance and interest. There is modern history also on this site with connections to Kitty Kiernan and Michael Collins. Needless to say story telling is essential on this site. This sight is naturally part of a walking tour for Lorrha Ecclesiastical village that should be formalised for inclusion in Irelands’ Ancient East.

Site Name: Augustinian Church, Lorrha

Archaeological Inventory Record:

Record No Description

TN004-010006 Religious House – Augustinian canons founded during the 12th century

TN004-0100023 Graveslab

TN004-0100024 Graveslab

TN004-0100025 Graveslab

General Description:

This site has a long, rich and interesting history that is bought to life though story telling and anecdotes. There is a wealth of visual interest in the form of stone carvings, architectural details and settlement patterns.

Opportunity: There is currently a small amount of interpretive information available on the site that is possibly incorrect. This is a limiting factor for visitor appreciation in terms of its importance and interest beyond its visual appeal as a ruin. This sight is naturally part of a wa lking tour for Lorrha Ecclesiastical village that should be formalised for inclusion in Irelands’ Ancient East.

Site Name: Holy Well, Lorrha

Archaeological Inventory Record:

Record No Description

TN004-010007 Ri tual Site – Holy Well - rough rectangular well accessed by 7 steps. Stone wall and cobblestones surround the site.

General Description:

The well site is picturesque and steeped in meaning and importance. There is currently no interpretive information available on the site. This is a limiting factor for visitor appreciation. There is speculation that this water is linked with the Friar’s Lough underground. This site is the location at which the St Ruadhan’s Bell was found. The bell dates from 8th Century and its handle depicts a serpent’s head with open mouth. It was kept in Lorrha Church till 19th century after which it was sold by a local historian to the British Museum where it still remains.

Opportunity: The visual appeal of the site is limited also by the crude metal grille that currently provides safety by preventing access. This feature would benefit from being reviewed and upgraded in a more sensitive way. This sight is naturally part of a walking tour for Lorrha Ecclesiastical village that should be formalised for inclusion in Irelands’ Ancient East.

Site Name: Beara Breifne Way/Ormond Way Route, Lorrha.

Archaeological Inventory Record: N/A

General Description: There Ormond Way is the Tipperary Lorrha Section of the Beara Breifne Way, a national pilgrim path that follows the footsteps of O’Sullivan Beare. The O’Sullivan Beare march started on the on new years eve 1602 and finally reached Black Lion in Co Leitrim 2 weeks later. The march began with 1000 people but due to harsh conditions and war reached Leitrim with only 35. This route is set to pass straight through the village of Lorrha and then proceed to link up with a section of the Stolen Railway as it approaches the Shannon River and Portumna.

Opportunity: The length and interest of the Beara Breifne Way Ormond Wa y once complete will attract a range of visitors locally, nationally Parish Boundary and internationally to the Lorrha Rathcabbin area. The parish would benefit from developing services and facilities that would encourage passing walkers to spend time in the village and local area. This is an opportunity to showcase the rich and diverse natural resources that the parish holds and provide an unforgettable welcome to those on route. Visitors will require

the following: Signage, Food, accommodation, toileting facilities as priorities and further to this local experiences that add value to their holiday such as music sessions, story telling guides, other outdoor activities (fishing, kayaking, local walks).

Site Name: Friar’s Lough, Lorrha

Archaeological Inventory Record: N/A

General Description: Friar’s Lough is located approximately 800 metres west of the village of Lorrha. It is a picturesque, wildlife filled riparian habitat that also incorporates 3 hectares of deciduous forest, rich with biodiversity and steeped in cultural meaning locally. There are several local legends about the Lough that bring the imagination alive the most famous of which suggests the presence of a large lake monster at the site to keep Viking attacks at bay. He is said to have come via the Lorrha River hence its serpentine form and made his home in the lake terrorising local people and livestock. He is even blamed for eating a man, horse and plough in one attack! One brave local is said to have then shot the beast, the water remained disturbed for a full week following the incident, and the serpent hasn’t been seen since!

Opportunity: This natural heritage feature represents an opportunity for the community to create a heritage loop walk around the village that takes in all the key sites of the area and as such could form the basis/backbone of a signage strategy for the village. The map indicates the development of an off road trail that follows the course of the river whilst the other half of the trail would follow the existing roadway. The length of the loop walk would be a comfortable distance of approximately 4.5 km.

This loop trail would also link in with the national Beara Breifne Way that passes through the village of Lorrha and other areas of the parish.

Lorrha: Ormond Way provides a pedestrian link. Portumna Birr

The Stolen Railway Lakeen Castle: Ormond Way provides a pedestrian link.

Site Name: Stolen Railway

Archaeological Inventory Record: N/A

General Description: The Stolen Railway refers to the remains of a rail link that existed briefly between Birr, Co Offaly and Portumna, Co Galway. This railway travelled through the centre of the parish of Lorrha Rathcabbin dissecting it in two. It was opened on the 5th November 1868 and closed again just 10 years later in 1878 due to operating at a loss from its inception. It was given the name the ‘Stolen Railway’ due to much of the materials used to construct the track disappearing locally after it was closed. Anecdotally the materials were used to build sheds for farmers. The entire station house in Portumna disappeared overnight. It is possible to discern the remnants of the line on aerial photographs today.

Opportunity: Utilising the redundant transport infrastructure of the Stolen Railway as and off road pedestrian/cycle route would be an excellent example of the sustainable development of rural recreation and activity based tourism. This route could provide the basis of a day cycle tour that takes in the sites of Portumna, Lorrha, Lakeen Castle and Birr, for example. The proposed Ormond Way route already envisages Lackeen Castle being linked with the Stolen Railway route. Visitors could boast of visiting 3 counties in one day using only pedal power. Look closely at working with other regions to link up offerings and develop niche tourism packages based around activity tourism.

Site Name: Lorrha Community Hall, Lorrha Village

Archaeological Inventory Record: N/A

General Description: Lorrha Community Hall is located on the northern approach to the village. It was first opened in 1994 and has recently undergone a minor upgrade on the heating system under the community energy scheme.

The hall is used regularly for a range of community activities such as Active Retirement Groups, Drama performances, Lorrha National School, Christmas Markets, Dancing lessons and other miscellaneous activities. The hall, whilst in a good state of repair, would benefit from a thorough energy upgrade as cost of heating the building cripples the committee and funding required to run the facility. The layout of the hall is typical of rural community halls all over Ireland, inward looking and with little consideration for passive design or aesthetics. It is an excellent community facility that is of great benefit to the village.

Opportunity: Lorrha Sceal are currently investigating the development of a shared community space in Lorrha Rathcabbin as a social enterprise. This goal has been motivated by the closure of the local community store in Lorrha village in February 2015. The Lorrha Community Hall has the potential to full fill the requirement for a venue to host a community museum and café. As a long term goal the group could consider pursuing funding to improve the atmosphere and make the Failte visible. A well designed refurbishment would re-orientate the building making it more open to the public and aim to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of the building.

Heritage Museum and Café Concept Image. Replacing solid walls with windows to the front of the hall would make its appearance substantially more welcoming. Create a sheltered outdoor area for use on warm days. Highlight the front of the building with flags, planter boxes, seating and signage.

3. Section Three

3.1 Actions

In the development of actions for Lorrha Rathcabbin the list is concise and limited to 7 Projects with 34 supporting actions. These actions have been informed by the process of consultation and analysis with the community of Lorrha Rathcabbin and will be critiqued and developed during the community workshop to best reflect the local ideals and goals. Currently actions are focused on improving communication and integration in the parish, creating an atmosphere of introspection to establish stronger links and on a more practical level upgrading access and interpretation on key cultural and natural heritage sites. All these actions are achievable over a 3 year period driven by the community with support and facilitation from appropriate agencies.

3.1 Actions No Projects Status Action/Outcome Partners Term LR 1.1 Strategic Actions Lorrha Ra thcabbin Community Action Plan to be recognised as the Short

 combined agreed priorities for the parish 2016-2019

LR 1.2 Lorrha Ra thcabbin SCEAL to be recognised as the implementing Short  group for the Action Plan. The group are to monitor the ongoing progression of actions on a regular basis. Appropriate sub groups  should be set up to assist in progressing actions as appropriate.  LR 1.3 Complete a community audit of all the existing services and Short/medium  supports available in Lorrha Rathcabbin. Include offerings such as food, accommodation, entertainment and local business but also  services and supports such as schools, garda stations, public  service, community groups etc. Identify gaps and develop ways to fi ll them, if not in the immediate locality then know what is beyond  the boundary of the parish.

LR 1.4  Ensure that individuals and groups from the Lorrha East area of the Short  parish avail of supports under the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) including community development,  education and employment supports.

 Short/medium 

LR 1.5 Arrange a series of small local community events and activities that Short/medium  are aimed at bringing the community together. Ensure that there  are regular opportunities wi thin the parish for meeting and building relationships. Be certain that all the community in Lorrha  Ra thcabbin are invited and aware of the calendar of events. Use  arange of venues within the parish, indoor and outdoor, to showcase the variety available. Remind the local community of  what the parish has to offer socially, culturally and in terms of hosting visitors. Local precedent: Medieval festival by heritage  group.  Short/medium LR 1.6 Establish an inclusive and reflective image for Lorrha Rathcabbin. A  new story that reflects the communities aspirations for the future whilst respecting the past. A ‘Vision Statement’ for the parish. Feed Short/medium  this into a promotional tourism image for the parish. Eg 3  provinces, 3 parishes and 3 counties.

LR 1.7  Seek support to gain professional branding and marketing advice Tipperary Tourism Company, NTLP Short/medium for the parish.  LR 1.8  Make links with the County Tipperary Tourism Company and ensure Tipperary Tourism Company that Lorrha Rathcabbin is recognised in the Strategic Plan for the David Broderick :  County. [email protected] Short/medium  LR 1.9 Continue to ma ke links with national tourism opportunities such as Fá ilte Ireland,  Ireland’s Ancient East. Study the marketing and promotion supports that are available from Fáilte Ireland under Ireland’s  Ancient East branding. Short/medium  LR 1.10 Seek agency support for the development of a parish signage Heritage Council, Tipperary Tourism  strategy for Lorrha Rathcabbin. Company David Broderick: Short/medium  [email protected]  LR 1.11 Complete a local signage audit for the parish. Explore most  effective locations for signage and what the signs should say. Map Short this exercise.  

LR 1.12 Continue to develop links with Birr, Portumna, : the Joe Hannigan – Enterprise Group in Short/medium  lakeside communities. Set up an umbrella group Arra River to the Terryglass. Ann Rabbite – TD  Brosna River. LR 1.13 Development of an advertisement video showcasing the parish to James Heenan: [email protected] Short use for promotion.

Make links with third level education centres in the region ie National University of Ireland Galway, Short LR 1.14 Ga lway University, Limerick University, Limerick Institute of Ga lway Mayo Institute of Technology, Technology etc Establish baseline requirements for place based University College Cork, Limerick learning and move towards providing the necessary facilities for University, Limerick Institute of same. Technology.

LR 1.15 Continue to build links with surrounding communities through James Heenan: [email protected] Short Drama and sharing local drama productions. Create a network to provide social events and entertainment for the local community and visitors.

LR 1.16 Ensure that all local community groups are registered with the [email protected] Short Public Participation Network. Ensure that they are linked with a PPN representative to bring the communities issue to the table and feed back information from committee meetings. LR 2.1 Lorrha Ra thcabbin Heritage Museum  Continue to investigate possible venues for the development of this Short and Café social enterprise for the parish.  LR 2.2 Investigate examples of similar projects nationally: Short  http://www.thirdspace.ie/videos/  LR 2.3 Seek training to inform the creation of a community heritage Short/medium  museum collection of artefacts.

LR 2.4  Investigate the creation of a Men’s shed centered round the Lorrha Short/medium Ra thcabbin Heritage Museum development.

LR 3.1 Redwood Bog and Little Brosna Complete detailed site analysis of Redwood Bog and Little Brosna Robert Dillon [email protected] Short Callows  Callows. Establish ownership, written history/interesting facts, historical movement patterns for crossing the area, protection status on the site, limitations of any protection status on the site, know who the neighbours are in Offaly and Galway etc. This information should be mapped where possible.

LR 3.2 Complete a biodiversity and habitat survey of Redwood bog. Utilise Robert Dillon [email protected] Short/medium  university student for this purpose work with third level institutions and agencies.  LR 3.3 Investigate the development of an outdoor classroom in on Inland Waterways Ireland, Limerick Short/medium  Redwood Bog and establish its appropriateness for the area Institute of Technology, Waterways http://www.ballyhouraoutdoorclassroom.com/griston- Ireland  bog/4588125336 James Heenan: [email protected] Short/medium LR 3.4  Investigate the potential of an adventure playground for adults and/or children incorporating the natural landscape of the bog and  its appropriateness for the area: http://www.loughboora.com/

 http://www.latzundpartner.de/en/projekte/postindustrielle- landschaften/duisburg-nord-spielpunkte/  http://www.naturebasedplay.com.au/nature-based-playgrounds-  western-australia/

LR 3.5  Investigate the potential of a small watercraft trail for the River and Wa terways Ireland Short callows in the parish. Create a Blueway that has strong links with  Lorrha Ra thcabbin. These trails are low impact and incur minimal investment to establish: http://www.bluewaysireland.org/  LR 3.6 Work with the owner of Redwood Castle to establish possible Redwood Castle Short/medium  indoor/outdoor guided tour opportunities that talk about the history of the castle along with its links to the surrounding  landscape and the River Shannon.

LR 3.7  Explore and link with existing local festivals and sites even if outside Short/medium the parish to add value to their offering by providing an alternative  experience. http://www.discoverireland.ie/Whats-On/irish-game-and-country- fa ir-and-fine-food-festival/509865 http://www.shorelinesartsfestival.com/

LR 3.8 Link in with Tipperary Sports Partnership to establish their possible Tipperary Sports Partnership: Short/medium involvement in development of alternative community fitness http://www.tipperarysports.ie/ project for bog lands in Lorrha Rathcabbin.

Investigate the potential of local young persons project for Michael and Fiona Molloy Short/medium LR 3.9 national Young Scientist Competition in regards to re-flooding bogs

Explore the development of the Angling and Fishing tourism market Wa terways Ireland, Inland Fisheries. Short/medium LR 3.10 for this are of the parish.

LR 4.1 Lackeen Castle, Lorrha Develop relationship with the OPW and know what their intentions OPW, North Tipperary LEADER Short/medium  are for the site. Seek support and funding to implement Partnership, Heritage Council interpretive signage and improved access to the site.

LR 4.2 Consult with Tipperary Heritage officer and planners to receive Tipperary Co Co, Heritage Council Short/medium guidance on acceptable interventions and guidance on the appropriate process for these works. LR 5.1 St Ruadhan’s Church of Ireland, Investigate development of a signage strategy for the parish. Tipperary Co Co, Heritage Council Short Lorrha Dominican Friary, Lorrha Prioritise key historical and natural heritage sites such as this. Make Augustinian Church, Lorrha links with marketing and branding work. Holy Well, Lorrha LR 5.2 Seek support and funding to implement signage strategy Short

LR 5.3 Investigate how this site fit into the Ireland’s Ancient East brand. Short

LR 5.4  Develop a proposal to improve the setting of the Holy Well in Short/medium particular the metal grille. Seek funding support to implement this  enhancement in the village. LR 6.1 Friar’s Lough and The Sluggery, Investigate the development of a loop walk taking in Lorrha village Short Lorrha . (s ee page 20) and Friar’s Lough/The Sluggery. Establish ownership along the route.

LR 6.2 Consult with all the landowners along the route to establish their Short support for the development of the walk.

LR 6.3 Make contact with the National Trails Office to inform the Short development of the loop walk: http://www.irishtrails.ie/Contact%20us/

LR 6.4 Make contact with the Tipperary Rural Recreation Officer, John Tipperary RRO John Egan TEL: Short/medium Ega n. TEL: 0870556465 to seek his knowledge and support in the 0870556465 development of the local Loop walk

LR 6.5 Seek possible funding streams to implement the loop walk Short/medium proposals. Work on the development of an application for the Rural Development Programme funding to be launched summer 2016.

LR 6.6 Incorporate the trail into the parish signage strategy if appropriate. Short/medium

LR 7.1 Stolen Railway Complete detailed site analysis of Stolen Railway. Es tablish Short ownership, written history/interesting facts, historical movement patterns. Complete a site visit of the entire length of the track wi thin Lorrha Rathcabbin to establish a detailed photographic and ma pping record of the parish section of the route.

LR 7.2 Research national examples of greenways and make links with Short helpful individuals where possible: http://www.greenway.ie/Greenway-01.html

LR 7.3 Estabish links with interested development parties in Birr and Short Portumna through heritage and community groups.

LR 7.4 Look closely at possible phasing of the route development and Short implementation and how this may work.

LR 7.5 Link in with Tipperary Sports Partnership to establish their possible Tipperary Sports Partnership Short/medium involvement in development of alternative community fitness Elaine Cullinan: project for Lorrha Rathcabbin as a way of bringing the community [email protected] together. Can they support the community in the development of this off road track? LR 8.1 Enterprise for Lorrha Rathcabbin – Arrange an information night in Lorrha Rathcabbin with guest Tipperary Local Enterprise Office, Short/medium community and small business speakers to explore possible tourism small business ideas. Seek NTLP, support from local enterprise agencies to promote local enterprise generation in the far north of the county.

LR 8.2 Ra ise awareness of funding supports for small and community NTLP Short enterprise such as the Rural Development Programme by hosting information evenings and encouraging one to one discussions with project officers.

LR 8.3 The Monks of St Ruadhan were the first to distill whiskey in Ireland. Medium Investigate possible micro brewery business in Lorrha Rathcabbin wi th local suppliers providing organic produces for same.

LR 8.4 Investigate Lorrha Community Hall for establishment of camping Medium bays and provider of facilities to support same ie, shower, toilet and kitchen facilities.

LR 8.5 Exami ne a local scheme to incentivise households to switch from Short peat/turf to other local and/or renewable fuel sources

LR 8.6 Exami ne the feasibility of a community energy generation project. Robert Dillon [email protected] Medium Solar, anerobic digestion or wind. Examine suitable location for same. Have an information night on same including key agencies and existing community energy teams.

LR 8.7 Develop links with NUI Galway and their focus of study in anerobic Robert Dillon [email protected] Medium digestion. Feasibility study and scoping exercise in Lorrha Ra thcabbin. 

Bibliography/References

Publications: David Broderick (2013) The O’Kennedy’s of Lackeen Lorrha Dorrha Historical Society The Lamp 2013 Edition David Broderick (2013) The Legend of The Friar’s Lough Lorrha Dorrha Historical Society The Lamp 2013 Edition David Broderick (2014) A Peaceful Place Known as ‘The Daggers’ Lorrha Dorrha Historical Society The Lamp 2014 Edition David Broderick and Nelius O’Meara (2014) A Recently Discovered History of the Dominican Abbey Lorrha Dorrha Historical Society The Lamp 2014 Edition Daniel Flynn (2013) Redwood Castle and Brehon Law Lorrha Dorrha Historical Society The Lamp 2013 Edition James Heenan (2013) Ringforts at Lisballyard and Lelagh Lorrha Dorrha Historical Society The Lamp 2013 Edition Seamus J King (2012) A Lorrha Miscellany, Thurles, Co Tipperary, Ireland.

Websites: http://www.seamusjking.com Seamus J King The P. & P. B. R. or The Stolen Railway http://www.npws.ie Site Synopsis-River Little Brosna Callows SPA-Site 04086 http://www.gov.scot/Resource/Doc/47210/0028730.pdf Working and Learning Together to Build Stronger Communities http://www.roscreathroughtheages.org Joe Coughlan The Birr Line http://www.thirdspace.ie www.discoverloughderg.ie www.archaeology.ie www.cso.ie www.maps.pobal.ie

The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2015-2017 is funded by the Irish Government and co-funded by the European Social Fund and includes a special allocation under the Youth Employment