Armstrong demands action to protect Boyne site
Billy Armstrong, the Ulster Unionist MLA for Mid Ulster said that he was alarmed to learn that yet another planning application has been submitted for development in the area close to the Boyne Battlefield site.
“I understand that the latest land to be targeted for development is an area on the southern shore of the Battlefield site at Oldbridge Co. Meath.
I was astonished to learn that full planning permission has been granted for 745 housing units in Oldbridge, Donore.
The historical importance of the Boyne Battlefield site is well known, and while it has a particular resonance for those of us who come from the Orange or Unionist traditions, its has a far wider historical importance and value than the division between Orange and Green on the island of Ireland.
I shall be writing to Bertie Ahern on this matter, given his recent public interest in the Boyne Valley as evidenced by his meeting with Ian Paisley at Oldbridge House on the 10th May this year. I certainly don’t recall any mention of 745 housing units being made then.
There is much talk these days of a shared future, but the Battle of the Boyne is part of a shared past. This is a test for the Government of the Republic of Ireland. If all the fine words about new beginnings and new relationship are to be more than hot air, I urge the Dublin Government to take steps to preserve this historic site and its surrounding area.”