Ballinagh’s restoration project is far from folly
Sean McMahon
Captain James Fleming may have failed in his attempt to see ships on the Atlantic Ocean from when he commissioned a unique lookout perched on top of Belville Hill, but he did have a spectacular panoramic view of seven counties.
Thanks to the dilligence of the 13-strong Ballinagh Community Enterprise Association and a combination of public finance and community fundraising the folly, which dates from the 1700s, has been restored to its former glory, along with a new stairway up the hill and an impressive loopwalk.
With the passing of time and weathering the building had fallen into serious disrepair but now it is expected to become a popular draw for tourists and hillwalkers.
Major undertaking
The restoration project was a major undertaking. Four years in planning, it involved a feasibility study by Alan McAdam having a specification that follows best conservation practice drawn up by David Cullivan of Gaffney and Cullivan Architects, with input from archeologist, Rose Ann Sweetman and conservationist Bronagh Lanigan. The project also enjoyed the help of management personnel in Coillte.
Then it was time for the contractors Sean McKiernan, S&A Construction and John Nulty Ltd to move in with specialist stonemason Declan McCabe showcasing his superb workmanship. To ensure the job was in keeping with the original work, the stone used in the reconstruction was taken from a nearby pond, from which the original stone was taken.
Work commenced last June, and the project has just been completed, culminating in a spectacular looped walk with magnificent views of seven counties and three provinces from the Bellville Mountain vantage point.
Tourism
Ann McPhillips, Chairperson of the Ballinagh Community Enterprise Association hopes that the completed folly will bring an economic dividend to the town from a tourism perspective.
“People have been following it on the Internet already and have come to Ballinagh to see it. It goes to show the power of the Internet and the interest that is there – particularly by walking groups.”
Good job
Owen Roe Reilly, who farms near the site told The Anglo-Celt, he has been impressed by the project.
“It is a very good job,” said Owen Roe. “The looped walk goes through part of my land and it is 7.2 kilometers. I look forward to doing the walk and it will afford people an opportunity to improve their health.”
Of course it would not have been possible without finance. Cavan Monaghan Leader provided €48,385.76 in funding, and a further €15,000 camefrom Cavan County Council. Bridging finance for the project was also provided by the Ulster Community Investment Trust (UCIT).
Official opening
Fleming’s Folly will be officially opened by Handball World Champion, Paul Brady at 12.30pm on Monday, October 28, and Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Fergus O’Dowd, will unveil a plaque to mark the occasion. The new county champions Ballinagh are also expected to attend. There will also be a sponsored walk on the day.