Julianstown Blog

Meath County Council Guide to Julianstown Architectural Conservation Area

April 29th, 2008

A guide to Julianstown Architectural Conservation Area

Much of Julianstown’s charm derives from its largely unspoilt landscape setting, its collection of historic mill buildings and association with the river Nanny, its collection of former public service buildings that underline its importance to the area at large and its distinctive picturesque architecture and boundary detailing. All these elements contribute to an appreciation of the special character of Julianstown ACA from near and afar.

Because of Julianstown’s layout extending from a bridge over the river Nanny, significant views are afforded towards the village from the valley above and from the village streets outwards. The most noteworthy view toward Julianstown is from the approach road on the southern slope of the valley. This encapsulates the bridge, the mill complex and Main Street with houses to either side. All are set against the backdrop of an unspoiled valley slope with groups of trees and hedges and a largely unspoiled skyline.

However the village is cluttered with television aerials and communications masts that stand to the north of the mill complex. Important views not in the ACA but essential to its character are to the river either side of the bridge. These afford views of the water and landscape. The view west is particularly interesting with the large lime kiln and the spire of St.Marys in the distance. The lime luln has to compete with a visually intrusive sewage treatment works directly to the east. Although this is not in the ACA it is highly visible from the bridge and a minimum measure of screening it with suitable planting should be considered.

The most important view in the ACA is up and down the main street. This has suffered
mostly from denigration of the boundary conditions and loss of roadside definition with
the closure of the old Laytown turn-off.

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