The Draft Heritage Plan has been developed to reflect the views of the public and stakeholders expressed during the ‘Pre-draft’ stage of the consultation process, which took place from May to July, earlier this year. During this phase, organisations, relevant state and semi-state agencies, local heritage and community groups, and members of the public were invited to share their views in relation to Wicklow’s heritage. Information clinics were held by the Heritage Officer in each of the five Municipal Districts and submissions were received through an online survey and written responses.
The Plan outlines a comprehensive vision for heritage in Wicklow, presenting a series of strategic actions under the following six key themes: Protecting Our Heritage; Connecting People and Place; Sharing and Celebrating Our Heritage; Collaboration and Partnership; Building and Sharing Knowledge and Responding to Climate Change.
The Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Paul O’Brien, welcomed the Plan, stating “The natural, built and cultural heritage of County Wicklow is a unique and precious resource, essential to the health and wellbeing of all in County Wicklow. This Plan will help to ensure that our heritage is celebrated, and managed with the care it deserves into the future”.
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, commented that “The Draft Plan sets out a framework for how Wicklow County Council will work with groups and agencies to manage and protect heritage in County Wicklow over the next five-year period. I would like to commend the work of the Wicklow Heritage Forum in overseeing the Plan preparation and I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to get involved in this current stage of the consultation process”
This is the fourth Heritage Plan for Wicklow. It aims to build on the achievements of the previous plans and is crafted in line with the national Heritage Plan, Heritage Ireland 2030, and the Heritage Council Strategic Plan 2023- 2028 ‘Our Place in Time’.
Submissions and observations are invited until 5.00 pm on Friday, 3rd January 2025.
You can submit your view via the consultation portal at https://www.wicklow.ie/Living/ConsultationHub; via email to wicklowheritage@wicklowcoco.ie; or in writing, addressed to ‘Wicklow Heritage Plan submission’ at The Heritage Office, Wicklow County Council, County Buildings, Whitegates, Wicklow Town A67 FW96.
The Draft Heritage Plan can be accessed in both English and Irish at https://www.wicklow.ie/Living/Services/Arts-Heritage-Archives/Heritage/Draft-County-Wicklow-Heritage-Plan-2025-2029.
All queries to Deirdre Burns, Heritage Officer T: 0404 20100 dburns@wicklowcoco.ie