'The imprint of my heart and soul remains in that house'

A MAN who grew up in the traditional house on the village green in Summerhill that is currently subject of a planning application seeking its demolition, has called for it to be preserved saying a historic village landmark will be lost forever if the plans are approved.

Michael Fields, a son of the late Tom and Delia Fields, was born in the house in 1952 and grew up there until he emigrated to the UK in the seventies. He recalled fond memories of his childhood home and said that “the imprint of my heart and soul remains in that house to this day”.

A planning application is currently being considered by Meath Co Council to demolish the house and build nine apartments on the site. Michael is among those opposed to the plans and wants to see the house preserved, suggesting that it would be an ideal location for a museum showcasing the rich history of the village and its surrounds.

“Whilst I am well aware of the continuing need for housing nationwide, thought must also be given to retaining our heritage. Not only will the aesthetics of a typical Irish village be greatly disturbed if this demolition goes ahead but a historic village landmark will be lost forever,” said Michael.

Meanwhile, local historian and councillor Noel French, who is among those who made a submission on the planning application, said that the house is dated on the records as 1931, but says it needs to be re-examined and he believes it dates back to the 1700's.

He said: “I think this building is misdated on records and should be dated to the early 1700s. The presence of a secret room (priest’s hiding place) and the discovery of the crucifixion plaque would tend to date it to the early Penal Days. I think the building needs to be re-examined and documented in advance of consideration of this planning application. This building is within the Summerhill area of architectural protection and this too has to be considered. This building is in a significant site in the village and this planning application and the façade facing the green need to be considered also.”

Michael told how the altar stone or crucifixion stone found in a secret room in the house by his parents was donated to the National Museum and a replica presented to his father in 1984. It featured in Fintan O'Toole's book 'A history of Ireland in 100 objects' and the original stone is now on display in the Collins Barracks Museum. The house was also the site of the original bakery in the village and Michael recalled how it was used a polling station on election days during his childhood.

Michael had believed that the old houses fronting onto the green were protected and if they aren't, he has questioned why not.

“I very much hope the current residents of Summerhill stand up and object to the demolition of this lovely old Irish family home. Once it's gone its gone forever. This house could be well over 200 years old . A full investigation must be undertaken by Meath County Council before it makes a massive mistake by allowing this demolition to proceed.”

The date for submissions on the plans closed on the 6th June.