GARRYKENNEDY

VILLAGE DESIGN STATEMENT DEC 2007

0 INTRODUCTION

CONTENTS

SECTIONS Page

1. INTRODUCTION 1

2. VILLAGE PROFILE 2

3. VILLAGE STRUCTURE 6

4. SETTING AND APPROACH 8

5. VILLAGE STREETSCAPE 14

6. BUILDINGS AND DETAILS 24

7. COMMUNITY ACTION LIST 30

8. YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE THEIR SAY 31

1 INTRODUCTION

1.0 INTRODUCTION as supplementary planning guidance for enhance quality of life within the village. use alongside the County Development The photographs and maps give a graphic 1.1 What is a VDS? Plan and Local Area Plans. The VDS representation of the character and The village of Garrykennedy has a may also be used by the community to guidance of the VDS. distinctive and diverse character, which is approach various funding organisations This guidance should be viewed as a highly valued by its local residents. As the to fulfill various community aspirations stimulus for encouraging any new village continues to evolve, this process of and desires. development or other proposals to respect change needs to be positively managed so and enhance, rather than compete with, the that the unique qualities that contribute to 1.2 Who is the VDS for? valued character features that define the the village’s identity can be protected and This VDS is a valuable resource of village. enhanced, whilst managing future growth information about Garrykennedy for and new development. reference by individual householders and 1.4 How has the VDS been businesses, builders, developers, produced? A ‘Village Design Statement’ (or VDS for architects and statutory bodies. This VDS has been produced through an short) provides an account of the extensive community consultation distinctive character of the village. The 1.3 How will the VDS work? programme, including an introductory VDS helps all those involved with the This guidance should be viewed as a meeting and community workshop. This future planning and enhancement of the stimulus for encouraging any new has been in partnership with the residents village to understand what is important to development or other proposals to of Garrykennedy, North Tipperary County local people and what aspirations the respect and enhance, rather than compete Council, and with the support of The community has for the village. with, the valued character features that Heritage Council. define the village. Through a series of Design Guidelines, the Garrykennedy community workshop VDS identifies what is worthy of The VDS consists of a written statement, protection and where improvements photographs and maps. The written should be made. The VDS reflects the statement contains sections which views and requirements of highlight the unique qualities of Garrykennedy’s residents who participated architectural, historical and natural in the VDS process. importance that contribute to the village’s character, and is followed by Although non-statutory, this VDS shall be broad design guidelines to both noted by North Tipperary County Council safeguard its distinctive character and

1 VILLAGE PROFILE

2.0 VILLAGE PROFILE public amenities such as picnic and The village is a popular centre for barbeque areas, public toilets, forest 2.1 Location and Profile fishing and water sports and attracts a walks, tourist information notice boards, Garrykennedy (Garraí Uí Chinnéide) is large number of visitors to the area. Over holiday cottages and marina. located north of less than two the years, the village has entered and miles off the -Ballina R494 lake- been commended in the Tidy Towns 2.2 Population drive road. The settlement is located at the competitions. The Way Although the core of the village is quite edge of Lough Derg. Fronted by two passes through the village. compact, Garrykennedy extends over a impressive harbours, Castle (in ruins) and much larger area. It has approximately 50 a slipway. Garrykennedy is a small rural The main street is small, consists of only residential buildings within the village lakeside village with a distinctive nine properties and offers two pubs and area accounting for a population of about character defined by traditional buildings, restaurants famous for their traditional c.100. Of the 50 residences in stone walls and lake harbours. The land music and good food, and recent Garrykennedy, 25 (50%) are holiday surrounding the village rises and is dwellings beside an 18th century homes with no one residing in them on a wooded with many farms. cottage. The settlement has a number of permanent basis. If the settlement continues to follow this pattern of development, it will result in all the negative aspects associated with rural development in Ireland without any of the benefits of community and cultural development.

Table 1 shows the percentage population increase for Castletown District Electoral Division (DED) between 1991 and 2006. This demonstrates that during this period the population of the Castletown DED grew by 24.4%. In fact there has been a higher increase in population in Castletown between the 1996/2002 Census (6.5%) and the 2002/2006 Census (10%).

2 VILLAGE PROFILE

Presumably the Cromwellian grantee of roads from the village intersect the 2.3 Brief History Garrykennedy, Henry Feltham and his property, the Old road and the New. Also The history of Garrykennedy dates back to successors the Watson’s kept the mentioned is the ‘proposed railway from the Norman era, when the village was the harbour in working order as it was a Nenagh to Killaloe which envisaged a stronghold of the O’Kennedys. The ruins valuable asset as a port on the Shannon, station at Portroe. Excellent fishing on the of their castle, built in 1480 on the lake at that time the most important means of lake for salmon and the ‘Gillaroe’ trout shore remains the centerpiece of the transport in the country. and a regatta for yachts held each year’. village today. By 1850 the harbour had again fallen For many years after its rebuilding The old stone Quay in the village was built into dis-repair as a report of the Royal Garrykennedy Harbour was a very busy in the late 1700's (extended in 1829) using Irish Mining Company (who was place with slate from the quarries going stone from the old castle. The Quay was quarrying slates in the area) illustrates down river to and for export in used in the 1800’s to ship slate from the ‘The loading of slates was very very large quantities. Also farm product nearby slate quarries in Portroe hazardous as they had to be carried especially oats was loaded here for along a plank to a boat anchored out Limerick. A wide variety of goods For centuries Garrykennedy with its from the rocky shore’. including flour, porter, coal and boatloads sheltered harbour has been an important of turf came through making port on the River Shannon. The old Irish The road from the slate quarry at Garrykennedy a hive of activity and laying clans of O’Kennedy and O’Brien of Arra Corbally to Garrykennedy via Portroe the foundations for the Garrykennedy we were ‘kinsmen’ and with the building of Cross was finally built in 1834, but the know today. the castle towards the end of the 15th building of the new harbour was delayed Century they were able to control the due to ‘the interference of parties – Michael Joy 2005. harbour together with the surrounding aggrieved by the Presentments’, countryside. presumably landowners who were being Table 1: Population discommoded. Agreement was eventually With the passing of time their fortunes reached, the harbour was built and in 1991 1996 2002 2006 waned and the advent of Cromwell saw an 1857 it is described in the brochure Castletown 1086 1148 1223 1352 end to their power and influence. Post issued with the sale of Garrykennedy DED Cromwellian Garrykennedy and its castle Estate ‘commodious harbour on the lake Western 6,146 6,487 7,449 8772 being starkly described in the civil survey for boats of large size’. The brochure Area of 1654 as’ the demolished castle of Castle also highlighted the existence of ‘lead North 57,854 58,021 61,068 66,023 Gael and six thatch tenements’. and silver mines’ and the fact that two Tipperary

3 VILLAGE PROFILE

An interesting item is the village letterbox, of development to be undertaken in the Pubs and Restaurants which illustrates the transition from British future. Tidy Towns/Community Association jurisdiction to the of the Saorstát Post Box (Freestate) post in 1922. Garrykennedy has a thriving community Recycling Facilities spirit, and it is clear the residents take great pride in their village. Public/Tourist Facilities such as sanitary facilities, marina, designated walks, car Sports and recreation are well catered for park and picnic areas. in the neighbouring village. The surrounding landscape is also suited for A delightful and popular spot, extensive walks, cycling, horse riding, Garrykennedy has three harbours. The old, and fishing in the lake. high walled stone harbour is very pretty but also very small and can be difficult if 2000 Map of Garrykennedy you have dogs or small children - unless you can berth beside the steps, there are ladders to climb to get on and off the boat. But there are now new floating jetties which have eased the congestion Early map of Garrykennedy somewhat. There is also a council harbour, but this is generally full of local boats.

2.4 Village Life today Although village facilities are limited, all Given that the settlement is a popular the necessary facilities can be found in the tourist destination it is subject to the nearby village of Portroe and towns of seasonal fluctuations associated with Ballina and Nenagh and generally the tourism. Garrykennedy is a very residents do not mind traveling to use difference place in the winter than in the these with banks and post offices in nearby summer. While there may be a great many towns. Were the village to expand, visitors during the month May to 2.5 Facilities and Services additional facilities may need to be September, the village is extremely quite Currently existing in the village are: considered. during the other months of the year. This Residents should be respected in the scale and type B & B’s

4 VILLAGE PROFILE

2.6 Environmental Issues & crafts, bicycle shop, angling shop, KEY POINTS There are recycling facilities in open farm, workshops for fly fishing, • Thriving active community. Garrykennedy. Currently residents can painting, etc. • Current limited services and also use the facilities in the next village. facilities. Any new development will need to include additional services. Pollution on land and in the lake should be • Environmentally conscious prevented. Vehicle emissions and air community. quality should also be monitored.

Currently buildings in the settlement use septic tanks or other individual treatment systems such as aeration. The environmental issues which need to be addressed prior to future development include sewerage treatment and waste water run off.

2.7 Employment There are a number of small businesses in the area, but most residents commute elsewhere for work. Zoning of land within the settlement plan for Garrykennedy under the Western Area Local Area Plan to allow for employment uses, such as commercial facilities enhance amenities for locals and tourists. The need for facilities may be assessed in terms of the scale and character of the village and the amenities provided in the near by areas of Portroe, Ballina and Nenagh. These facilities may include health and beauty, heritage centre, gallery, café, antiques, arts

5 VILLAGE STRUCTURE

3.0 VILLAGE STRUCTURE the road, with some just set back from the road. The more modern houses are 3.1 Shape of the village detached, on individual sites and set back Garrykennedy is a small rural lakeside further to accommodate parking. village with a distinctive character defined by traditional buildings, Castle (in ruins), 3.4 New Development Areas stone walls and lake harbours. The Several fields are zoned for development settlement is located at the mouth of in the area, although this is dependent on Lough Derg and is fronted by three landowner’s intentions and the planning impressive harbours and a slipway. application process which is open to the Garrykennedy originally developed around local community participation. the quay in a small tight pattern. Over is integral to the character of the time, the village has expanded on the settlement and should be maintained. raised south-west side of the lake and on The land surrounding the village rises and is wooded with many farms.

3.2 Street pattern and built form Generally the original houses form a small terrace, and one and half and two storey dwellings front the road.

Newer residential development takes the form of detached houses within cul-de- sacs. A line of one-off detached two New development should respect the storey houses has recently been built on traditional style and structure of the the western side of the main approach road the approach road to the village. village, and follow good practice. to the village. E 3.3 Scale and Dominance The issue of parking should be addressed There is still a strong perception that the Most of the buildings are located against with planning applications for residential/ village consist of the “main street”, due to a backdrop of wooded areas. The commercial/ leisure development. Parking the extensive mature landscaping and this traditional buildings of the village sit on

6 VILLAGE STRUCTURE may be accommodated off the road and New development should consider Therefore, all aspects of new behind the buildings. opportunities to improve pedestrian developments in the village should have access and links around the village. regard to this existing established and Land on the east side of the village has recognised character of the village. been zoned for an integrated tourism- leisure-recreational complex. Whether infill or new development, building orientation and plot layout should KEY POINTS reflect existing styles and patterns and an • Variety of building scales and appropriate balance should be maintained patterns, mostly two storey and between residential areas and green spaces detached or terraced. within individual developments. Similarly, • Individual buildings nestle the proportion, scale and design of inconspicuously in the surrounding buildings and materials used should Garrykennedy area. Scenic view to the lake compliment the existing village character. • Potential for new development to The monotony typical of many modern provide a range of tourism-leisure- residential developments can be avoided recreational facilities for the village. through the use of a variety of building types and the careful use of colour and 3.5 Design Guidelines other building features. The setting and views of the historically important quay and the lake itself should Recent walkway with scenic view be preserved and respected when considering the design and location of new development.

The existing structure and shape of Pedestrian/cycle path Garrykennedy should be respected as a product of the village’s evolution. New Garrykennedy has a strong rural development should be of a scale that does tradition and within a small village not overwhelm or engulf this settlement accommodates a surprising level of pattern. diversity with regard to house style and character.

7 SETTING & APPROACH

The local landscape is characterised by the rural agricultural open fields enclosed by To Portroe 4.0 SETTING & APPROACH mature hedgerows, and patches of broadleaf woodland and coniferous planting. Existing Walkways Potential walkways L2138 Recent Development comprising of detached properties set back Vistas from the road. Viewing Points

Key area to the village - any development here needs to be carefully designed to retain a wooded area to the lake. L6055

Forest Walks

8 SETTING & APPROACH

4.1 Broad Landscape Setting Tountinna at 457m a.o.d as the highest One of the most recognisable sites on the Garrykennedy lies on the shores of Lough point. lake is Garrykennedy castle and on Derg with surrounding rolling hills, which approach from the lake the village, nestled are likely to have been carved out during in the landscape, provides an important the last ice age by ice flows from the landmark for users of the lake and an nearby . The soil is likely equally important safe harbour for boat to be composed of till derived from Lower users. Palaeozoic rocks. The bedrock in the area is Devonian Old Red Sandstone, the The old stone Castle/tower (rath) is a aquifer is classified by the geological welcome sight on approach to the harbor Survey of Ireland as Locally Important from the lake offering a feeling of safety Aquifer - Bedrock which is Moderately and respite. The existing landscaping Productive only in Local Zones and the offers a sense of tranquility and charm. areas extreme vulnerability to pollution. 4.2 Important Views and Vistas The lakeshore edge is lush with The shoreside location of Garrykennedy vegetation, and there are large areas of with the surrounding gentle and steeper deciduous woodland surrounding the hillsides provides great vantage points village. throughout the area.

The landscape is designated as an area of high amenity, which runs along the shores of Lough Derg.

The junction of the main and back roads in the village is about 33 metres above Ordnance Datum, with the land rising to about 50m a.o.d within the immediate “This narrow, curving road offers a vicinity of the village. To the south of the series of enclosed vista, dominated by village the land inclines gradually to woodland, that provide a distinctive Portroe and beyond to become the and attractive gateway to the foothills of the Arra Mountains with village”. Quote from Submission on Issues Paper.

9 SETTING & APPROACH

well as acting as important wildlife habitats.

Local residents value these existing mature planting features as important character features, and wish them to be retained and enhanced.

Seasonal displays such as the many daffodils, which surround the area in spring, add colour and interest and should be encouraged.

4.4 Important Open Spaces Important open spaces need to be managed and maintained appropriately, and the The rural setting with rolling hillsides and Travelling down into the village on the parties with responsibility for this deciduous and coniferous woodland L2138, mature hedgerows obscure most maintenance need to be identified. Details obscures some parts of the village, and as views, but past the graveyard the road of the management and maintenance of you travel through the area the landscape bends gradually towards the lake and a open spaces, roadways, paths, etc. opens out to give some great vistas. picturesque view of Lough Derg opens associated with new developments should out. be submitted at planning application stage.

There are also good views travelling down on the back road from Portroe into the village.

4.3 Planting There are many mature trees and hedgerows within and around the village. The canopies and foliage provide important green backdrops, as

10 SETTING & APPROACH

• The lake as a village edge. The vision for the VDS is to facilitate and • Varied topography provides an provide for ease of movement through the opportunity to make a major area and to promote connectivity and contribution to the public realm permeability. This must be addressed by and reinforce the identity of the way of: area. • Improving, developing and prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist routes. • Managing parking provision. Each element of movement is layered to make a pattern of development in relation to desire lines between uses: • Road Hierarchy The forest and its associated walks and the • Pedestrian Permeability green areas around the castle and in front • Linkages to the countryside of the car park are the designed open • Open Space Network public spaces in the village. KEY POINTS The key to maintaining the visual • Lake shore setting and hillsides character of the village is to maintain the give opportunities for views over the important open spaces around it. It is whole village. important to protect the setting of the • Broadleaf woodlands, Castle, forest and its walks and open hedgerows, planting, and open fields are spaces. essential to the village’s character.

• Encourage the maintenance of 4.5 Permeability and Connectivity “The natural setting is beautiful and existing vegetation when undertaking A number of elements were identified the forestry areas nearby add to the new developments, particularly mature within the village that were of sufficient public enjoyment and wildlife trees etc. importance to feed into the overall environment.” • The lake shoreline vegetation character and setting as follows: Quote from Submission on Issues should be maintained so that new • Gently undulating landform is a Paper. distinctive feature within the area. developments are not visible.

11 SETTING & APPROACH

4.6 Design Guidelines ecological interest surrounding the that are commercially available and can be New development, infrastructure and land village, including the lake, hedgerows appropriately used in planting schemes. management should respect the attractive, and trees. The planting of native species is important scenic ‘rural’ character and distinctive particularly as they play an important role landscape setting of the village and avoid Developments should provide for a high in maintaining local wildlife and ecology. visual intrusion into key views to and from level of connectivity and permeability, to the village, especially looking towards the encourage walking and cycling and to Existing established planting, including lake, and the view of the lake as you promote linkages between areas. mature trees should be preserved and approach from Portroe. Of equal managed to maintain them in good health. importance is to ensure future Amenity areas should be retained and New and replacement planting in the development within the village has regard well maintained with the addition of village should be of species appropriate to to its visual impact as viewed from the lighting and seating to encourage their the location and scale of the space. Open lake. New developments should be use and ensuring the safety of users. The lawn areas around developments should be integrated into the landscape such as to current green areas at the Castle should planted with trees where possible. maintain all vistas. Development proposals be protected from any infringement and should be accompanied by visual impact maintained for the enjoyment of all. Close liaison between all groups in the assessments taken from approaches to the village including the Tidy Towns village from the lake and designs should Landscaping adds greatly to an area and Committee and the Garrykennedy ensure that any development shall have a should be encouraged. The use of Development Association should be minimal impact on all vistas defined in appropriate native trees, as a cost maintained to ensure all resources are used this document. Visual impact assessments effective and environmentally friendly to maximum effect. should include photo montages and photo method of ‘livening up’ and visually renderings to adequately convey any improving the character of areas is development in context. recommended. In particular, the screening of unattractive features such as New development should be of a low ESB boxes of telephone exchanges is density and a location that consolidates encouraged. Where undertaking such and strengthens the core of the village. works always liaise with the appropriate body. New development, infrastructure and land management should avoid direct or The Western Area Local Area Plan sets indirect damage to sites of known out briefly a number of native species

12 SETTING & APPROACH

13 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

5.0 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE and viable in a modern context but wall or pavement) of these buildings all unspoilt. The whole street should be tend to run parallel to the edge of the road. 5.1 What is a ‘Streetscape’? given the same attention. The term ‘streetscape’ refers to the look of Continued improvements to the visual a particular road, regarding the 5.2 Street Elements appearance of some buildings should be arrangement and design of Within the village core, the main road encouraged, perhaps with the provision of • plots, demonstrates a strong sense of enclosure floral displays (such as window boxes, and • buildings and materials, reflecting a distinctive ‘traditional’ wall-mounted baskets) to provide seasonal • roads and footpaths, character, created by a dense interest and enliven the village • street furniture, arrangement of plots and buildings that streetscapes. • open spaces and planting. have a close relationship with the design Attractive and coherent streetscapes and layout of the road. 5.3 Street Furniture happen when all of these features reinforce The style and location of street furniture in and work with one another. This creates a near-continuous building the village is generally regarded as line, with occasional gaps providing satisfactory. Seating on the green areas The aim should be to consider the whole glimpses out to the wider landscape and in the open space areas is well used streetscape in the same way as we consider setting. These gaps also provide access and appreciated by locals and tourists the conservation of an individual historic to the rear of the properties. The roof Street furniture refers to such items as building. Building conservation specialists ridge, front facade and any front litter bins, benches, picnic areas, bollards, ensure that historic buildings are useful boundary treatments (such as a garden railings, lighting, signposts, CCTV, electricity substations and wiring, cycle stands, post boxes and any other utility items found within the public realm of streets and roads. Such items are generally owned and managed by different bodies, which can give rise to a lack of co- ordination, and their placement can be over-influenced by meeting road standards rather than pedestrian requirements.

14 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

15 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

5.3.1 Design Guidelines Similarly, street furniture should be to the ease with which a mobility impaired Clutter is made up of lots of bits and provided with cognisance for the person or person with a pram or pieces. The only way to reduce clutter in existing street layout and style. wheelchair can realistically navigate. the streetscape is to look at each individual • Street furniture such as lamp item and consider whether it really is standards should compliment the area and necessary and whether it can be removed, in general overly ornate designs should be hidden, replaced in a less noticeable avoided. position or at least painted a less obtrusive colour.

Local residents put forward several suggestions, including ideas for overhead electricity wiring to be accommodated underground wherever and whenever possible, and for the provision of more co- ordinated cast iron or heritage-style street In general, the provision of street furniture to reflect the historical and rural furniture can raise the somewhat character of the village. difficult question of maintenance. The

variety of ‘shareholders’ in this aspect of the ‘streetscape’ including private residential owners, private commercial • A schedule of maintenance should ventures, the ESB and the County be drawn up with particular references to Council makes the organisation and co- painting and regular maintenance. ordination of design and maintenance • A co-ordinated approach to often difficult. providing these facilities throughout the village should be considered. In particular, However, there are a number of key a uniform approach should be taken to the principles to be observed: provision of lamp standards, seating, litter • Temporary and permanent street bins and any fencing or boundary furniture should be organised to treatment with the historic core of the minimise clutter. This is important in village. relation not only to appearances but also

16 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

5.4 Surfacing 5.4.1 Design Guidelines Roads and paved areas impact greatly on A good shared road surface for walking, the streetscape. Structured footpaths are cycling and driving contributes to both associated with more urban settings. The comfort and safety. The road should be provision of footpaths everywhere will adequately drained, and without hollows detract from the rural character of the where puddles may form. settlement. Streets in the village are generally tarmac with cul-de-sacs Material for Cul-de-sacs and Mews generally gravel. Road edges are generally • combined shared surface for without footpaths. roads and footpaths, using macadam or gravel • where appropriate low level natural boundaries to public areas • street tree planting where appropriate • tree and shrub planting to visible private areas (front gardens etc.)

Materials for Primary Neighbourhood Roads • macadam or gravel shared road surface • parking • grass margin for tree planting • street tree planting (min. size 12- 14cm girth) 5.5 Footpaths & Roads • high quality boundary treatment The lack of footpaths, at least the paved to private (walls) and public and kerbed kind, is part of the character areas of Garrykennedy. Footpaths are rare throughout the village and vary in appearance, width and materials.

17 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

used safely and easily by everyone who streetscape. Alternative designs that is likely to walk it'. provide for better stormwater management are encouraged Footpaths away from the kerb in major roads are preferred because of safety issues and visual amenity of the

Lack of Footpath

The new and old pathways do not always link up or extend any great distance throughout the village. This is an especially important issue in relation to Mixed paving safety. The speed of traffic is naturally Design considerations of all footpaths will: calmed where pedestrians and traffic share the same space safely. The provision of • design and maintain surfaces to be new footpaths should taken place in stable, firm, even, and slip consultation with the community. resistant to ensure safety for all users of footpaths 5.5.1 Design Guidelines • In an ideal world, all footpaths would be design footpaths with the principle clear and accessible throughout their of enhancing accessible journeys length, but unfortunately this is not always • ensure footpath designs consider the case. linkages to kerb and channel, stormwater, vehicle crossings, Walkers vary immensely in agility. Please Crazy pavement grass berms, street furniture, apply the test ‘Can this right of way be

18 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

carriageway light poles, trees and In both cases shadows and darkness are as road signs important as light. • ensure all renewal or upgraded footpaths will provide a minimum One approach is to light only the most width of useable footpath interesting features of a facade: after all, why draw attention to the boring bits? • use materials that can be sourced Cornices, windows, doorways, columns for the intended life of the footpath and so on can be picked out with small, asset narrow-beam, close-set luminaires, leaving • use the texture and colour of the rest in relative darkness. As well as materials to provide interest in new enhancing the architectural form, this or upgraded streets largely avoids glare to users and visitors.

• ensure that materials used in high 5.7 Signs volume pedestrian locations are of Signs should be clear the highest quality and amenity and accurate, and • ensure pedestrian priority is clearly appropriately placed. indicated at vehicle crossings. Presently some signs around the village are ambiguous, for 5.6 Lighting example the signs on With the need for extensions and 5.6.1 Design Guidelines For a lighting scheme to be successful, the back road. improvements to footpaths, street lighting we need to understand the way in which needs to be considered. This should be the architecture - including buildings and Signs – both limited to the key areas of the village, as townscape features - affect the character commercial and road light pollution to the surrounding rural of the external space which we occupy. signage, can have a area is a concern. A well designed scheme can offer particularly strong impact on the quality of

security, drawing attention to key a streetscape. However, low lighting along the minor elements and developing a new character roads near houses may need to be to the space, or it can be modest, in In general, advertising in the village does considered for safety reasons. sympathy with the existing architecture. not detract from the visual quality of the

area.

19 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

Signs at the approach into a village should be clearly visible and made from Also of concern for pedestrian safety is the an appropriate material. However, these blind bend in the approach road, as should not be excessively dominant or vehicles tend to speed around the corner bright. Within the village, the retention into the village. In addition, parking of bi-lingual street signs should be occurs here during the summer months. encouraged. 5.8.1 Design Guidelines New signage should mimic the small Traffic calming measures and enhanced proportions of older signs and metal and pavements to improve pedestrian safety wood should be used in preference to should be a high priority for plastic. implementation throughout the village, especially on the approach roads. The confusing cluster of road signs and independent signage in the village – Traffic Calming Measures particularly on the green by the Castle, • Raised Junction Platforms should be re-organised. • Small Radii Corners with Over- runable Strips 5.8 Traffic • Surface Treatments Too many signs on one post can be Traffic is a big • On Street Parking confusing and unclear. problem in Garrykennedy, 5.9 Parking especially in the 5.7.1 Design Guidelines holiday season. Place names and signage should reflect Apart from the local trends and traditions. narrowness of the

roads, the speed of Appropriate signage of amenity areas – traffic also makes such as indicating walks and trails, is walking around encouraged, as is the on-going use of the village walking path maps and information packs. dangerous. Speed restrictions and

calming methods are currently lacking.

20 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

There are two public parking areas within In the main part of the village, where the 5.10 Boundary Treatment the village. One has designated and lined houses have little or no setback, parking Within the central village area few car parking spaces. is difficult. Back lanes may alleviate this residential properties have private front in some places, and should be gardens. Therefore direct frontage onto the considered in any new development. street is characteristic in these areas. with small walls containing small front gardens. Off road parking beside the pub would be of benefit if there is available land. The most important boundary walls in the village are those of the cottage, which are There is no designated parking areas for a dominant and attractive feature. These bicycles or motorbikes. walls consist of natural stone and are well maintained.

Other un-coursed stone walls are evidenced in the village and these tend to use locally sourced material. These are attractive and many remain. Where they do exist they should be carefully maintained and repaired as required.

5.10.1 Design Guidelines Attractive, safe and comfortable outdoor spaces should be created within the public realm. These should be permeable, easy to 5.9.1 Design Guidelines access, and include provision for Parking Areas should be identified, sign pushchair users and those with mobility posted and designated and lined for impairments. Such spaces should have bicycles, motorbikes and cars. The sign appropriate paving, lighting, seating and shall be the standard parking sign, signage features, which compliment the showing a white letter P on a blue character of Garrykennedy. background on reflectorised material.

21 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

Modern walls tend to be constructed from breezeblock. These can look bare and unsightly but can be greatly enhanced by careful planting of appropriate native trees. LLAGE STREETSCAPE KEY POINTS • Traffic calming measures such as speed restrictions signage, sensibly placed narrowing or rumble strips could be considered. • Provision of adequate footpaths throughout the village, with associated lighting. • Overhead wires are unsightly and should be placed underground where possible. • Parking is difficult in the older parts of the village and has to be on narrow roads which can cause obstructions. • Provision for parking off road, behind or alongside buildings should be made where possible.

22 VILLAGE STREETSCAPE

Table 1 Characteristic Features These should be maintained in existing

buildings and complimented by new development. Relationship with the lake Table 2 Uncharacteristic Features Where possible, these features should be Clusters of Single and Two-Storey avoided in both existing and new dwellings on short cul-de-sacs developments. Painted Plinths Roof Tiles Use of natural stone The Design Guidelines are based on a Flat roofs White or limited palette of bright colours thorough analysis of the qualities and Red brick finishes characteristics of Garrykennedy which painted on plaster finished building Painting or stone facing of original facades contribute to its distinctive identity, and facades which are appreciated and valued by Significant place names, e.g. Larkins, uPVC doors and windows local residents. Ryans, etc. Swing-out windows in all buildings Dark colours on door and window Removal of render The design guidelines aim to preserve surrounds Inappropriate place names and enhance the important character Traditional style windows and doors Plastic and corporate shopfronts features identified within the VDS, and with a vertical emphasis seek to encourage proposals for new Overhead wiring Sash windows development to be based upon a Large-scale and plastic signage considered understanding of the Uniform roof pitches (while possibly Removal of and re-organisation of village’s unique character. accommodating variations in height) building facades Chimney stacks Natural or natural look slate roofs Native species and planting

Subtle signage using wood, stone and

small metal signs as appropriate

Traditional pub/shopfronts

23 BUILDINGS AND DETAILS

6.0 BUILDINGS AND DETAILS The cut stone quay was built c. 1780 using stone from the Castle, on a 6.1 Buildings and Features of rectangular plan with roughly dressed Interest limestone rubble walls brought to Garrykennedy has a diverse and varied courses having stone steps and built environment, which has evolved over protruding rounded mooring platform to the years. Although few buildings and north-east and cast-iron mooring sites in the village are of regional bollards. There is also a surviving wall architectural and historical interest, they of medieval tower house. have played an important role in the evolution of the village. This quay is a well-known and important feature of Lough Derg. Its setting is The National Inventory of Architectural enhanced by the ruins of Garrykennedy Heritage (NIAH) has listed Garrykennedy Castle. It is clearly well designed and Quay as a site of architectural and executed and retains interesting features historical interest. It is highly valued by such as the mooring platform and cast- the local community and should be iron mooring bollards. sensitively preserved and maintained as part of the local distinctive character, Garrykennedy Cottage is listed in the sense of place, and cultural heritage of NIAH as of Local Importance. This is a Garrykennedy for future generations. terraced three-bay two-storey house, built c. 1800, with single-bay two-storey outbuilding with carriage arch to the north-west, and single-bay single-storey addition to south-east.

This house contributes positively to the streetscape of similarly-sized and styled buildings in the village of Garrykennedy.

24 BUILDINGS AND DETAILS

Ciss Ryan’s Pub is again listed of Local dash most used. These often have The older buildings lines usually front the Importance; it is a detached seven-bay modern painted finishes applied today. road directly with little or no garden two-pile two-storey former house, built The external finish to several older frontage, the older buildings are generally c.1800, now in use as public house with buildings has been removed to expose located in centre of village. Unusually the projecting gabled porch. their original stone construction. village does not have a church or religious building here to act as a focus to the This building contributes positively to the village. streetscape of the village. It retains much of its original form which is enhanced by the retention of interesting features such as the timber sash windows.

6.2 Traditional Garrykennedy is a relatively small village with the buildings based around the lake shore. There are a few early houses from the 19th and 20th century surviving. These “The white stone-washed house on older houses and buildings tend to have the right beside the carpark is very been repaired, extended and reused over pretty. The windows and chimney are I the last century with minor changes and artificial and were placed there for 6.3 Newer Buildings extensions. Many of the original openings decorative purposes.” Later residential development in the remain in these buildings and many retain Quote taken from community village typically consists of detached their original sash windows. Doors have responses at the workshop and dwelling with simple footprint, rendered also largely been retained. submissions on proposed Village walls, and natural slate roof tiles. Set in Design Statement. larger plots, these buildings are set back There are very good examples of original from the road line and have access via a timberwork and ancillary features such as cul-de-sac to the local road. ridge tiles that show the richness, style and The roofs are generally pitched and skills of the original builders. several buildings retain their natural In terms of materials these are usually slates and ridge tiles with traditional simple rendered finish with modern Many of the walls and finishes of the older guttering. windows in both material and style. buildings remain with roughcast renders or

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• The design of new development 6.4 Variation and Innovation in should seek to enhance visually and New Development physically the character of Modern design can play an essential role Garrykennedy by using the prevailing within the traditional streetscape, by architectural detailing and appropriate contributing an element of variety, so local materials as a stimulus for creative long as it is based upon a careful interpretation. consideration of the main characteristics found locally. 6.5 Design Guidelines Building demolished Design proposals for new development Subtle variations in the design of should respect the local characteristics of buildings and their key elements is the site and its wider context, by working desirable in creating an interesting and with rather than against key features attractive streetscape and in perpetuating including the existing contours of the site, an identity for the village. lake, and established boundaries. Development should be adapted to the site It is essential that such variation is based and its natural features and characteristics, within limits, and on the careful and not the site adapted to the consideration of a common design style. development. New buildings should respect the strict relationship between types of New developments should be phased in construction (i.e. stone or blockwork) pace with improvements to local and the proportion of elements and infrastructure, village facilities and materials used. services, such as the sewage system, roads, pavements, lighting, open space and KEY POINTS community facilities. • Shape, size, proportion, materials and colours should all be The established patterns of development considered in the construction of new within the village, including levels and buildings, extensions, windows and road layout, should be used to guide the doors in the village. design of new development proposals. Replacement building Careful consideration should be given to

26 BUILDINGS AND DETAILS complementing the pattern and density of features is important in preserving the adjacent plot arrangements, building lines, Alterations to Existing Buildings village’s character. setback levels, plot enclosure, building All works undertaken on an existing scale and massing, proportion of building should reflect the character of All owners of Protected Structures should architectural features and the the building and its vicinity. In be aware of their legal obligation to height/pitch/ridge of roofs. particular, the building style should be maintain their property and prevent it from reflected through the façade elements – falling into disrepair. In such buildings Within the historic core of the village, such as windows, doors, etc. Roof styles particular care should be taken to seek development should aim to complement and pitches should similarly compliment expert advice to ensure the use of proper visually and physically the established the existing structure. materials and procedures. Due to recent traditional character of the buildings. changes in legislation for planning The use of appropriate materials is permission for works on Protected The Castle ruins, traditional buildings and critical and all aspects such as - texture, Structures, the advice of the County stone quay should be conserved and colour, proportion, etc. should reflect the Council should be sought before any maintained as key assets of the village. established character of the area and works are undertaken. The Council will compliment existing buildings and assist people where possible through the Property owners should be encouraged to styles. operation of Conservation Grants. retain, maintain, and restore original vernacular and architectural details (such Where possible, un-used materials from Materials as ornate window frames and stone work, older buildings should be recycled for The type of materials to be used in new roof slates, rendered wall finishes etc) as re-use. development or improvements to existing important character features of the village. properties should: Building Maintenance (i) fit in with the prevailing character of The total energy used in development Building maintenance plays an essential the village, and be designed to reflect and should be minimised as far as possible to role in ensuring the built tradition of the respect nearby colours, textures, materials, encourage sustainable development village is protected. This is important for shapes, styles and proportions; practices in line with government all village buildings. (ii) take account of other materials used in initiatives and current legislation. This the immediate vicinity; should encourage the use of locally All owners of buildings in the village (iii) utilise materials for extensions which sourced, ‘environmentally friendly’ and should appreciate the importance of match those of the existing property; energy efficient materials for construction maintenance through regular painting, (iv) ensure that replacement windows and as well as minimise running costs. retention of boundaries and original doors respect the age and character of the

27 BUILDINGS AND DETAILS existing building - in particular, the use of replaced with harder cement based The most common verge detail for roofs UPVC is considered to be inappropriate renders with modern synthetic paint within the village is a barge edge to the for use in a designated historically or systems. These are both physically slate and render or walling. architecturally important building; harder and can look sharper compared to (v) encourage the re-use of appropriate the softer and subtler colours available The majority of building materials from buildings which with lime washes. older buildings have been unavoidably demolished. within the village Lime based renders should be have chimneys, and Extreme caution should be exercised in encouraged and in any event the external are an important combining different external materials in renders should be in keeping the existing character feature the same building – in general there should character of the village. that significantly be one principal external material. contribute towards Wall Construction visually interesting New development designs should avoid Within the historical parts of the village streetscapes. Such chimneys and future monotonous repetition by inclusion of (such as the main road) the majority of chimneys should be located at the main subtle variation, and should use materials, the buildings have a render coat to the ridge of the roof and, as very frequently which compliment the established variants underlying construction. found, on gable ends, in which case they of design, silhouette, scale, density, are often flush with an internal breast. materials and colour within the village. The use of brick and concrete blocks is Designed as rectangular in plan, orientated mostly confined to the recently at right angle to the ridge, and usually External Renders constructed buildings. New buildings capped with clay chimney pots would be This is the main should have some sort of render (either in keeping with existing. feature of many of coloured, white or pebble-dashed) to the characteristic conceal the use of brick and blocks and Windows & Door buildings in the should compliment existing buildings. Openings village. In most buildings in Traditionally Roof Features & Construction the village, the door these would have Materials openings are been lime based Roof construction styles and materials vertically aligned, renders that would have a direct association to the which is particularly have been painted predominant building construction type. important on with lime washes. Today these are often buildings with small

28 BUILDINGS AND DETAILS facades. On smaller houses and cottages, glazing bars should be suited to the create an environment in which the first floor windows are often set just below opening size, the position of the window buildings and activities themselves are the the eaves line, with only the top-plate or in the building, and the overall form of principle attraction and visual interest, not several courses of stone or brick over the the house. the advertisements and signs. Shopfronts, openings. Most window openings are also signs and advertisements should therefore vertically orientated. Recent development The type of door proposed should suit work within the overall form and structure has been designed with this in mind and the building type and the position of the of a building and should be subservient to this trend should be encouraged. door within the building. Simple vertical it. plank doors are generally suited to Cills smaller vernacular type buildings and A shopfront should suit the type and style A range of window cills are found in the moulded panel doors to larger houses. of the building as a whole. If for example, village all of which relate to the walling Glazing on doors should follow the same the building is symmetrical, the design of material. The important characteristic is pattern as the windows. The use of the shopfront should maintain the overall the profile and thickness of the front edge uPVC is not considered appropriate. symmetry. or face. Illumination of Buildings Window Frames & Door Leafs External lighting of buildings and signs The window frame should be set back should normally be avoided, but the from the face of the building to give a sensitive and selective lighting of key shadow line. The presence and design of features such as the Castle ruins and quay, and key distinctive buildings should be encouraged. Light fittings should be as small and unobtrusive as possible.

Shopfronts Signage The over-riding principle for the design of shopfronts and the design and placement of advertisements and signs should be restraint. The aim should be to

29 COMMUNITY ACTION LIST

7.0 COMMUNITY ACTION LIST Providing for the Local Community Existing and new community facilities for Throughout public information sessions a There should be a coordinated all ages should be developed in line with number of issues arose about which the programme to increase pedestrian safety future growth and development of the local community felt extremely strongly. through adequate provision of street village, including provision of services for While some of these suggestions are lighting, pavements and cycle paths, the elderly, and space and facilities for beyond the remit of the VDS they are particularly in the vicinity of widely children and teenagers. nonetheless included as part of a used public areas such as the pubs, castle comprehensive community ‘Action List’. and facilities and open areas.

Community Action List 1. In the absence of a off-street parking, some measures should be employed to reduce the dom inance of traffic in the village. 2. Additional pedestrian crossings are required particularly across the car-park and to the C a s tle . 3. There is a need to provide defined short-term and long-term parking areas. This could effectively be achieved by making the access road to the quay oneway and delineating parking areas. These should be reserved for short-term parking only with a 'Pay and Display' system brought in. Similarly, commuter and long term parking needs should be m et by the provision of a suitable parking area. 4. Action should be taken immediately to reverse the decline of key areas and buildings within the village. In particular, the County Council should act for the preservation of the village’s built environm ent. 5. There is no dedicated children’s play facility in the village and this would be a welcome addition to the area. 6. New development is welcome but services and infrastructure should be provided to ensure these integrate with the physical and social environm ent. 7. The heritage and tourism potential of the area should be realised by the development of heritage trails and inform ation points. 8. An integrated plan should be drawn up for the development of footpaths and roads in light of the damage caused by passing traffic. This plan should consider the need to ‘standardise’ the appearance of paved areas with the used of appropriate m aterials. 9. Where buildings fall into disuse or are under-utilised their possible use as a community facility should be investigated.

30 8.0 YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE THEIR SAY

The younger people of the village had the opportunity to draw or write about their village.

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This Village Design Statement, undertaken in partnership with the community of Garrykennedy, was produced by North Tipperary County Council, with support from The Heritage Council.

For further information, please contact: North Tipperary County Council, Forward Planning Section, Civic Offices, Limerick Road, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.

Tel: 067-44652 Fax: 067-44654 www.northtipperary.ie

December 2007

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