Short-term letting use sought for derelict house at Birr Castle Demesne

A planning application has been submitted to Offaly County Council requesting a change of use to the existing derelict Head Gardener’s House, on the grounds of Birr Castle Demesne, to short-term letting accommodation.

Oxmantown Settlement Trust, which has a responsibility of care for the Birr Castle Estate, said in its application that the proposed works would "preserve and enhance the building's architectural character through sensitive conservation works, including the reinstatement of its roof".

The Head Gardener’s House is a protected structure listed on the record of protected structures under Offaly County Council and forms an integral component of the Birr Castle estate, historically serving as accommodation for senior horticultural staff. Its architectural style is consistent with the vernacular estate buildings of the mid-19th century, featuring coursed limestone walls, timber sash windows, and a pitched roof.

The application states that "the works will include alterations, conservation and restoration of the existing structure and will be carried out in accordance with best conservation practice in consultation with Offaly County Council’s Conservation Officer. No material alterations will be made to the architectural character of the building, while all existing services are to be reused and not altered".

Noting the Head Gardener’s House "to be in a state of disrepair", the proposed "internal refurbishment works" will "provide habitable accommodation".

Oxmantown Settlement Trust also state in their application that the restoration of the Head Gardener’s House will have a positive impact on the wider demesne by "reinforcing the historic character and integrity of the estate, preventing the further deterioration of a contributing structure, enhancing the visual and functional coherence of the protected landscape and supporting sustainable tourism and heritage-led regeneration".

"This proposal represents a sensitive and appropriate intervention to a neglected protected structure within one of Ireland’s most significant heritage estates. It aligns with national and local conservation policy, contributes to the long-term sustainability of the demesne, and ensures the continued relevance of the Head Gardener’s House in the 21st century," the planning application added.

A decision by Offaly County Council on the planning permission application is expected on November 23.