Calls to improve the Hill of Tara visitor experience

A CALL for an enhanced effort to improve conservation and the visitor experience at the Hill of Tara, was made in the Dail last week.

The need for a concerted cross-agency effort to implement the Tara Conservation Management plan was made by Deputy Darren O'Rourke during a Dáil debate on the Historic and Archaeological Heritage Bill 2023.

"The Historic and Archaeological Heritage Bill 2023 provides a new framework to modernise and bolster the law that provides for the protection of our archeological and related heritage. There is much work to be done on the Bill but it is an important piece of work.

"In Meath we are blessed. The Hill of Tara is an absolutely precious piece of heritage. It is unique in that it is a living monument. It is not paused in time. It is openly accessible. People use it every day, morning, noon and night. It is a popular attraction. In 2021 during Covid-19 there were more than 182,782 visitors to the site. However, it needs massive attention.

"We now have the long-awaited Tara Conservation Management Plan which includes a number of important principles, policies and objectives. The objectives require significant cross-agency effort and energy in order to be delivered."

Deputy O'Rourke said it was particularly important to implement measures in the plan to facilitate sustainable access to the site respecting its setting and significance and having regard to traffic, parking, public transport, cycling and pedestrians.

"This is an essential element and requires immediate attention and prioritisation.

"The plan can't be allowed gather dust. It must be implemented to ensure the site is conserved and is improved for visitors."