Kildare's Castletown House reopens despite protests

THE OFFICE of Public Works (OPW) has announced that Castletown House in Celbridge reopens today (Monday) to the public amid tension and local protest.

The parklands will return to dawn-to-dusk access, with guided tours of the historic house also resuming.

The reopening follows discussions between the OPW, local representatives, An Garda Síochána, and community groups, who reached agreement on limited essential vehicle access.

It comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding the estate, which has been at the centre of a prolonged dispute. Access issues flared after the sale of land including the main M4 entrance, sparking community protests and forcing the OPW to use a contested pedestrian route via Lime Avenue.

In May, OPW vehicles were vandalised at Donaghcumper House, a temporary staff base, with damages estimated at €500,000.

While access challenges remain, the OPW welcomed the progress, urging visitors to use public transport or walk or cycle to the site, as no general parking is available at this time – although there are limited accessible parking spaces for those who need them.

Dogs are also welcome in the parklands but must be kept on a lead and away from the lake area.

Tour and ticket information is at www.castletown.ie.