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Calls to save historic watch towers from dereliction

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Calls to save historic watch towers from dereliction

Well-known local man Jerry O’Grady, the Chairman of the Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty Memorial Society, is growing increasing concerned about condition of two buildings of historical importance that are after falling into disrepair.

Two of Killarney's 19th Century stone-built watchtowers are in serious danger of being irretrievably damaged and lost due to official neglect according to Mr O’Grady who is calling for intervention by Kerry County Council or the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

The Tower and Lodge on the Kenmare Road and Round Tower at Lord Brandon's Cottage are in danger of becoming derelict.

“A short few years ago there was talk within the National Parks and Wildlife Service that the [Kenmare Road] building could and should be restored and possibly put to a tourism/heritage use,” Mr O’Grady said.

“At the time, the single-story Lodge was largely intact and the Tower was free of plant life. Unfortunately, nothing was done and today it is all but invisible from the road. There is little doubt but in a short time the structure of the Tower will be damaged beyond repair and will join some other parts of our built heritage such as Ross Cottage, Glena, and Queen’s Cottage as derelict shells or heaps of rubble.”

Mr O’Grady is calling for an official campaign, similar to the one that saved Killarney House to be established to safe and protect the Watch Towers.

“Our now beautiful Killarney House and Gardens was ignored for decades by these agencies and sustained lobbying by local heritage and tourism interests was all but ignored. Without the fortuitous timing of Failte Ireland Funding becoming available and a committed Minister for Heritage being in office at the right time [Jimmy Deenihan], it is safe to assume that it too would have had a similar fate,” he added.

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Aghadoe Heights introduces Engagement Concierge service

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Aghadoe Heights introduces Engagement Concierge service


Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa has launched a full-service Engagement Concierge, providing a bespoke proposal planning service.


Part of the TMR Hotel Collection, the five-star property aims to handle every detail of popping the question, offering discreet support from initial planning to execution.
The process begins with a private consultation to tailor the occasion to the couple. Services on offer include secure ring safekeeping, hidden photography or videography, custom floral arrangements, manicures at the hotel spa, and candlelit balcony or penthouse setups.
Post-proposal options include private dinners, couples’ spa treatments, framed photos delivered at evening turndown, custom embroidered robes, and helicopter flights.
Speaking on the launch, Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa General Manager Brian Bowler highlighted the focus on reducing stress for guests.
“Proposals are among the most meaningful moments in a person’s life, yet they often come with significant pressure,” Bowler said. “Our Engagement Concierge allows guests to focus entirely on the moment itself. We discreetly manage every detail behind the scenes.”
The hotel is also offering follow-up planning for engagement parties and weddings, ranging from intimate penthouse gatherings for up to 18 guests to full exclusive venue takeovers.
Consultations are designed around individual preferences and budgets. Further information is available at aghadoeheights.com/engagement-concierge or through the hotel’s wedding team.

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Paralympic legend to headline Chamber winter schedule

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Paralympic legend to headline Chamber winter schedule


Six-time Paralympic gold medallist Jason Smyth will head to Killarney next month as part of an ambitious winter events schedule announced by the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce.


The legendary sprinter will take centre stage for ‘An Evening with Paralympian Jason Smyth’ on Wednesday, October 7 at The Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa. The complimentary discussion event, sponsored by AIB, promises an inspiring insight into the career of one of Ireland’s greatest-ever sporting figures.
The high-profile appearance forms part of a busy lineup of upcoming gatherings designed to connect local businesses and residents across the town.
The schedule kicks off on Wednesday, September 30 with a Chamber Luncheon at the Killarney Heights Hotel, offering members a key networking opportunity ahead of the autumn season.
Chamber leadership highlighted that the autumn and winter series continues the organisation’s core mission of bringing the local community together and showcasing Killarney as an outstanding place to live, work, and belong.

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