22354

develop the 0.75 ha site located at "Monk's Bridge" (also known as Knapton's Bridge) and associated lands at the northern portion of Abbeyleix estate, in the townland of Abbeyleix Demesne, Co.Laois. The bridge is a protected structure (RPS no. LA-090-H) and a National (Archaeological) Monument (SMR Ref No. LA029-073). The development will consist of works to repair and preserve Monk's Bridge, including the following: localised vegetation removal, including the carriageway and embankments; localised clearance of sediment deposit; localised re-pointing of masonry; reconstruction of collapsed parapet; stitching cracks in elevations and arch barrels; reinstatement of displaced masonry;localised grouting of abutments, piers, cutwaters and wing walls; new carriageway wearing course with surface water drainage (including tanked filter drain and soakaway infiltration trench); new limestone jostle stones either side of the carriageway; refurbishment of iron railing, gates and associated elements; new automatic retractable bollards to east approach lay-by and all associated site development works. A Natura Impact Statement has been prepared in respect of the proposed development