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.
This item from the RTE program Capital D from March 20th includes reference to the health effects of noise and also to a strategic noise mapping exercise that is being carried out there. Meath County Council has carried out a similar one in Julianstown. Health experts also talk about the effect of noise on human health.
Meath County Council released their noise map last week. The results are as expected, the noise levels in Julianstown are off the scale and equivalent to levels on the M1 motorway. The council was legally obliged to carry out this study under 2002 EU legislation adopted in 2006. The legislation is designed to prevent or reduce noise caused by large agglomerations, major roads, railways and airports. In Ireland Dublin has been the main focus of this regulation. Isn’t it ironic that the small village of Julianstown, population 600 should feature in this noise survey?
The fact is that more than 7 million vehicles per day use the village. The noise map is calculated from the traffic volumes and the topography, i.e. taking into account buildings and other physical features.
Meath County Council is legally responsible for preparing the noise map and is now legally obliged to engage in public consultation and prepare an action plan.
Given the seriousness of this finding in terms of the health and safety of people in Julianstown it is now imperative that the village be bypassed once and for all.
