Fears for Castletown House attraction with proposed new development

Campaigners have warned about the effect on Castletown House near Celbridge  if plans for a new town centre get the go-ahead.

More than 2,000 residents in Celbridge, Co Kildare have protested against plans to build a number of new shops, offices, and 150 houses at nearby Donaghcumper.

They say the development would negatively impact on Celbridge economically, as well as hampering its amenity space, tourism and wildlife.

Councillors have already voted against plans to extend the town centre across the river, but Junior Housing Minister Damien English says he may use his powers to push through with the development.

The Celbridge Action Alliance group said scenic views from the 18th Century Castletown House would be 'destroyed' forever.

The campaigners are are also concerned about noise and light pollution spoiling the amenity space and its tourism potential.

There are also fears that wildlife would be affected by the development such as squirrels, swans and rabbits.