Threat to Irish walled towns highlighted

A vital and fragile part of Ireland's heritage will be lost forever if walled towns are not protected, according to the author of a new book commissioned by the Heritage Council.

The book, Irish Walled Towns, launched yesterday by Minister for the Environment John Gormley, aims to promote and protect 20 of Ireland's key settlement areas which were fortified by walls.

These towns, developed by the Vikings in the 9th century, the Anglo-Normans in the 13th century and the English Planters in the 17th century, are at risk of losing their historical context because of overdevelopment and the insensitive siting of structures such as hotels in their vicinity, author John Givens said.

Mr Givens said he does not want these towns "preserved in aspic" but said they need better maintenance and more sensitive planning.