Sir, – We are a group of local historians and academics who have published work on various aspects of the heritage of west Wicklow. We were dismayed to learn recently that the NRA’s emerging preferred route for a new N81 would involve the construction of a major roundabout right at the edge of Hollywood village. If pursued, this development will have a ruinous impact on the character of this unique place.
Hollywood in west Wicklow is inextricably linked with its sister settlement Glendalough on the other side of the Wicklow Gap. Both places trace their origins back to St Kevin at the end of the sixth century. Hollywood was originally Holy Wood, while the Irish version Cillín Chaoimhín is even more explicit in recalling the saint’s association with the area.
The historic link between Glendalough and Hollywood provided by Kevin was recognised anew in recent years by the revival (with official support) of the ancient St Kevin’s Walk between the two centres.
In our view, just as it would be desecration to run a major new road through Glendalough, likewise it will be sacrilege if the proposed route of the N81 is allowed to ram its way through Hollywood. As local historians with a deep commitment to the area we are appealing to the NRA to reconsider this proposal, as it impacts on this ancient village which, as the oldest of all the Hollywoods, can even claim to be the patronym of its famous offspring in California. – Yours, etc,