Special amenity order on Howth Head confirmed by Dempsey

A special Area Amenity Order protecting more than half of Howth Head has been confirmed by the Minister for the Environment, Mr Dempsey.

This is only the third time that an SAAO has been imposed. The other two are on the Liffey Valley in 1990 and North Bull Island in 1995.

The Howth order covers approximately 1,500 acres, most of which is in private ownership. The order prevents development of this land, even prohibiting some agricultural and other types of development which are normally exempt from the need to secure planning permission. The SAAO notes that Howth Head has served as a recreational area for generations of Dubliners. While most of the land is in private ownership, the order takes into account of the fact that it is all accessible by rights of way.

The coastal landscape is described as one of great distinction, particularly the heathland above sea cliffs. Two defining landmarks are the Baily promontory and Ireland's Eye, which are covered. Also singled out are the heath-covered hills of Shielmartin, Carrickbrack and the "Ben of Howth", which give panoramic views over Dublin Bay to the Wicklow Mountains.

The SAAO process was initiated in 1996 by the minister for the environment at the time, Mr Brendan Howlin. Fourteen parties objected at last year's public inquiry, including Rathingle Developments, representing the Sutton Castle Hotel. Its lands lie within the special area.

Also objecting was Ms Florence Nealon, whose family has owned land in the area since 1834. Treasury Holdings, the Dublin property firm which owns substantial lands at East Mountain, objected strenuously to the SAAO.

The Save Red Rock and Sheilmartin Hill Campaign, which objected to the fencing off of land on Howth Head by the property developer Mr Gerry Gannon in 1998, was last night said to be "absolutely delighted" with the news.

The news will give impetus to campaigns in south Co Dublin and Co Wicklow, which are seeking SAAOs for Killiney Hill and Bray Head respectively.