Kildare County Council Rules Out Compulsory Purchase Order For Castletown Demesne Lands

Friday, 21 February 2025 16:13

By Martin Osborne

The council noted that while Castletown House and its demesne are of historical significance, the property is already managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW).

A Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the historic demesne lands at Castletown House, which are currently in private ownership, will not be initiated by Kildare County Council.

Under Irish law, local authorities can acquire land compulsorily for public purposes, provided there is a clear legal basis and justification in the interest of the common good.

In response to Social Democrats Cllr Claire O' Rourke, the council noted that while Castletown House and its demesne are of historical significance, the property is already managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW).

Furthermore, the land in question was recently available for sale on the open market, a factor that would weigh in any CPO assessment, according to the council.

The Kildare County Development Plan acknowledges the cultural and historical importance of Castletown House and its surroundings, but there was never an intention for the council to take ownership or management responsibility.

Given these considerations, the council concluded that there is no sufficient statutory basis to proceed with a CPO for the lands.

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