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Calls to remove Protected Structure status at St Finan’s

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By Sean Moriarty

Local councillor Brendan Cronin is calling for the removal of the ‘Protected Structure’ designation at the former St Finan's Hospital.

Cllr Brendan Cronin

The historic building has been lying idle since it closed in September 2012.

The hospital and adjoining lands are up for sale by the Health Service Executive (HSE) since then.

So far no realistic offer has been made on the site despite suggestions that it could be used for social housing, a catering college and a hotel.

Each year the building, which was built in the 1850s, falls into further disrepair.

Cronin believes its protected status is deterring potential buyers.

At Monday’s full meeting of Kerry County Council Cronin asked the Council executive to reconsider the designation.

“This is a strategically important site and the protected structure designation is a major impediment to any development or use of the building and adjacent lands, the building has been left empty and idle since closing in 2012 and taking on the burden of well over €100 million renovations has proven to be financially toxic,” he told the meeting.

“Ultimately, as time moves on it will become a derelict eyesore like similar buildings in other counties and cities. A change needs to be made in the current designation to lift the obstacles blocking the potential of this important site."

Kerry County Council management did not support the idea.

“A declaration has been issued in relation to the St Finan’s building and it is considered that the elements specified to be retained are not overly restrictive and do not impinge on the ability of this structure to be retained and renovated for a variety of uses. Kerry County Council offers a comprehensive pre-planning service and looks forward to meeting and engaging with the owners or prospective owners of the building with regard to its renovation,” said a Council official.

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Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Aghadoe Heights

The Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa is offering special events and packages to celebrate Mother’s Day. The hotel aims to provide a range of options for families to treat their […]

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The Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa is offering special events and packages to celebrate Mother’s Day.

The hotel aims to provide a range of options for families to treat their mothers.

Over Mother’s Day weekend, the hotel will offer Afternoon Tea in The Heights Lounge. This includes savoury and sweet items, and a selection of teas, available Friday to Sunday for €39 per person.
On Sunday, March 30, a special Mother’s Day lunch will be served in the Lake Room Restaurant.

The meal will feature local ingredients and traditional Irish flavours. Mothers and grandmothers will receive a cupcake gift, and a professional photographer will be present to take family photos. The lunch is priced at €49.50 per person.
The hotel’s spa is also offering a Mother and Daughter package throughout March.

This includes one hour in the Thermal Spa, a 60-minute massage and facial treatment, a spa gift, and a two-course lunch in The Heights Lounge. The package is priced at €140 per person.

The hotel advises early booking due to limited availability. Reservations can be made by calling +353 64 6631766 or emailing reception@aghadoeheights.com.

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‘Spring into Your Best Life’ event

The Oaks Hotel in Killarney will host ‘Spring into Your Best Life’ on April 5, an event organised in association with Breast Cancer Ireland and Irish Country Magazine. The event, […]

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The Oaks Hotel in Killarney will host ‘Spring into Your Best Life’ on April 5, an event organised in association with Breast Cancer Ireland and Irish Country Magazine.

The event, running from 12:30pm to 5:30pm, aims to provide attendees with advice on beauty, wellness, fashion, health, and happiness.
Hosted by Maura Derrane and James Patrice, the event will feature speakers including fashion expert Celia Holman Lee, pharmacist Laura Dowling, wellness expert Oonagh O’Hagan, and fitness coach Orla Hopkins.
Dr. Brian Cotter from Sisu will discuss aesthetics, while Christina Foley will focus on holistic wellbeing. Life coach Ariana Dunne will also speak on personal and professional success.
The event will include a drinks reception, a gourmet lunch, beauty and fashion masterclasses, and shopping opportunities. Attendees can win prizes throughout the day. A special Mother’s Day draw will take place for those attending with their mothers or daughters.
Tickets are available for the event via: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/your-best-life-kerry-fun-style-wellness-giveaways-breast-cancer-ireland-tickets-1021537374787?aff=oddtdtcreator

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