- More than 100 people attended meeting on Carrigglas Manor
- Locals oppose afforestation licence for 40.75 hectares
- Restoration could cost up to €100m
- Main house designed by Daniel Robertson
- Thomas Lefroy linked to Jane Austen’s Mr. Darcy
More than 100 people have attended a public meeting in Cullyfad to discuss the future of Carrigglas Manor in County Longford. Locals have called for the historic site to be restored and developed as a tourist destination. The meeting opposed an afforestation licence application for 40.75 hectares.
The application was made by owners Glennon Brothers Investment Ltd. Campaigners want the site reopened to the public. A local Senator said restoration could cost up to €100m. The manor and grounds have fallen into severe neglect and decay over recent decades. Organisers point to Strokestown Park as a model for heritage tourism.
The early 19th-century Tudor Revival estate holds architectural heritage. The main house was designed by Daniel Robertson. The stables and gates were designed by James Gandon. The manor was originally built by Thomas Lefroy, former Lord Chief Justice of Ireland. Lefroy is widely believed to be the inspiration for Jane Austen’s Mr. Darcy.
