Final Conservation Plan - Kildare.ie

Conservation Management Plan for the Leixlip Spa
November, 2009
Laura Bowen Architect
The Barn Studio, Knockaulin,
Kilcullen.
Co. Kildare

Contents
1.0 Background.............................................................................. 1
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Scope
1.3 Objective
1.4 Consultation
2.0 Understanding the Site..............................................................................2
2.1 Short Description of the Place.
2.2 Chronological developments and
events in reference to Spa site.
3.0 Assessment of the Significance of the site...............................11
3.1 Statement of Significance
3.2 Community Resource
3.3 Social
3.4 Education
3.5 Scientific
3.6 Aesthetic Values
4.0 Identified Vulnerabilities and management issues.............. 17
4.1 Condition of Fabric and setting
4.2 Access
4.3 Ownership and funding
4.4 Existing Legal Framework for protection
4.5 Proper Understanding and Knowledge of the place.
5.0 Conservation policies & their implementation .............................19
5.1 Guiding Principle
5.2 Summary of Relevant Legislation
5.3 Specific Legislative Framework
6.0 Implementation....................................................................... 33
6.1 Summary
6.2 Further Studies
6.3 Monitor the proposal for general access
6.4 Modification of the draft recommendation
on access, previously proposed.
6.4 review
Bibliography................................................................................. 35
Appendix
Map 1 Leixlip as Nodal point in Cultural Landscape
Map 2. Features
Map 3. Aspects
Map 4. Areas of Change
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1.0 Background
1.1 Introduction
'This project was funded by the Heritage Council under the Local Heritage
Grant Scheme 2009 under the auspices of KCC and LTC.' It is a continuation of the Conservation
Management Plan outline proposed as necessary by Nicki Matthews Conservation Architect. It
seeks to address the future management of both sides of the valley which stretches from Louisa
Bridge in the South, to the derelict canal house to the North. Map 1 in the Appendix shows the
location of the site, the extent and the prominent features pertaining to this plan in 2009.
1.2 Scope
Previously the scope of the plan referred mainly to the Spa well and bath sites south of the River Rye
and historically a number of specialist reports addressed this side of the site in more detail, for what
was seen as the more sensitive SAC habitats. LTC had previously produced a framework plan for
the both sides of the river in 2004 which proposed the idea of a park and the restoration of the Spa
and Bath. Following this a conservation report for refurbishment of the Bath was completed from
which it was proposed that a conservation management plan be produced to address all aspects of
the site. In formulating the Conservation Plan all the stakeholders were interviewed. This process
seeks to review all the specialist reports into the Ecology, Hydology and History and review the
management of the site to date.
1.3 Objectives
This cultural landscape needs to be viewed as a collection of features which are a combination of
natural semi-natural and man-made which collectively form the sense of place. Previous
management decisions may not have fully appreciated the overall significance of the site or focused
on some elements or aspects to the detriment of others. It is important to understand that this
management plan is a mechanism for re-accessing previous decisions as well as the basis for
future plans. This Conservation plan is not static and it and needs to be reviewed to manage any
change in circumstance. At best it seeks to sift through the resonances that this site has for various
groups and to ensure that these significances are understood, the main objective at the end of the
process is to agree the policies necessary to maintain the identified significance of the site & safe
guard its future by the following:
Identifying threats to the site and setting
Agreeing an approach to the ongoing conservation and fabric.
Identifying areas where coordination of policy and action are needed
1.4 Consultation
Preparation of the plan involved consultation with individuals and organisations and was further
commented when a draft plan was submitted by written submission by Denis McCarthy & John
Colgan.
June Eiffe, Spa committee member formerly on Taisce, Lisa Harlow Intel c/o, Sarah Sexton,
Chairman of Friends of the Rye valley committee River, Nicki Matthews Conservation Architect, Niall
Meagher former County Architect, John Colgan Tidy Towns Pro, Declan Doogue, Dublin Naturalists
field Club, Bridget Loughlin Heritage Officer, Ciara Flynn National Parks and Wildlife, Val Swan
District (Environment)Conservation officer, Denis McCarthy, Rye River Committee
By Phone
Peter Black Kildare County Council Conservation Officer, Bob Aldwell retired Principal Geologist,
Practitioners
Reports and surveys which were referred to and conclusions drawn from where prepared by the
following practitioners.
Dr. Pamela Bartley - Hydrologist
Dr. Evelyn Moorkens - Environmental Consultant
Melinda Lyons - Ecologist
Nicki Matthews - Conservation Architect
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2.0 Understanding the Site
2.1 Short description of Place
The Spa site is located in a valley cleft where the Royal Canal aqueduct crosses the Rye River valley
and is approximately two Km to the west of Leixlip. It is bounded to the south by the local R148
Leixlip-Maynooth road. The site itself covers an area of 4.9 Acres, with its eastern boundary
adjoining the Royal canal towpath and adjacent the Leixlip Train station (Louisa Bridge) which
provides local and national rail services. This serves the commuting population of Leixlip and there
is a large car parking area to the south of the R148.
The Rye water as seen in Map 1 of the appendix runs from Carton in Maynooth towards Dublin in a
linear North-west to East direction. The Royal canal with Linear Canal Park runs north-south to the
eastern side of the site. To the West, on the southern side of the river, Intel Ireland has its
manufacturing facility covering an area of 360 acres and over a mile long. The Intel sports grounds
are immediately adjacent to the western boundary.
The site south of the river contains the Spa well and Bath which are of historic importance linked
by a manmade aqueduct which carries the Royal Canal over the River Rye. The topography of the
site is a series of stepped terraces towards the river. The entrance is through a hard standing area
on the level of the towpath that in the past served as a car parking area. This was created in the
1980`s to facilitate access to the site. Misuse of this car park led to the introduction of vehicular
barriers in early 1990`s. Today there is also a second barrier on the towpath limiting its use to
pedestrians and banked earth and large stones defining the sites boundary to the towpath. Refer to
Map 2 in the appendix for the salient features of the site. This first terrace below the entrance
contains the two pond areas halfway between the well and the Bath which contain the Annex II plant
species which is part of the special area of conservation (cSAC). The Bath occurs on the second
terrace located centrally on axis with the waterfall on the northern side of the River. To the side of this
terrace there is located the rare priority habitat i.e. petrifying spring with tufa formation (which is
listed in Annex 1 of the EU habitats Directive). The Bath is accessed by the remains of a central
path; part of measures that were installed in the 1980 s after the Bath was first discovered. Recent
work to the site is the installation of a boardwalk to the northern side of the Rye Valley from the toll
collector‟s house to the base of the waterfall and a viewing point on the aqueduct over the Rye
Valley.
2.2 Chronological developments and events in reference to Spa site.
The discovery of a thermal spring when workmen were constructing the aqueduct for the Royal
Canal and the sites linkage to Thomas Connolly and Louisa Lennox important local historical figures
are outlined below, as well the background, to events relating to the site to present day.
1758
Louisa Lennox marries Tom Conolly, who was living in England at the time. He is convinced by his
brother in law the Earl of Kildare (later to become the Duke of Leinster) to take over his inherited
estate Castletown which adjoined his own demesne, Carton. James Fitzgerald the Earl of Kildare
was married to Emily Lennox.
1786
The second Duke of Leinster and an adjoining landowner lobbied to have the planned route of the
Royal Canal diverted around the southern boundary of their estates causing the expensive crossing
of the River Rye by the aqueduct we see today. At the time the aqueduct was built it was claimed as
being 5m higher than the bridge on the Clyde navigation in Scotland which claimed the title of
greatest in the world. The Valley adjoining the aqueduct would have been modified by quarrying to
obtain the large amount of earth banking necessary. Thousands worked on the construction of an
aqueduct – then the largest such project in Europe - to carry the canal across the river Rye at
Collinstown, West Leixlip. The labour force camped locally while brought great economic benefits for
the area.
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Louisa and Tom Connolly make a visit to Matlock 1 , a Spa in England. Louisa without disclosing her
identity is greatly thrilled to meet other sections of society.
1791
Aqueduct was started with .a huge workforce who was camped with in the area.
1792
Flooding damage to Aqueduct foundation means it has to be restarted again.
1793
Workmen discovered a spring during the digging out the Royal Canal and diverted it to a hexagonal
basin alongside the canal, the same year the situation in France with the Napoleonic wars made it
very difficult to access the continent for the “ Grand Tour “or visiting Spas and this type of
recreational travel virtually ceased.
1778-79
Louisa Conolly built a Bathing house with portico at Castletown.
1794
This spring was diverted and a well installed so that passengers on the canal or in a carriage
alongside on the tow path could draw a bucket of water without alighting from their carriage. At this
time taking the “cure” from health-giving mineral waters was well established and it was believed
that the “Volatile” nature of the water would be lost if bottled so most people preferred to travel to
the waters to take them in situ or Bathe in them. It seems the Leixlip well attracted many people
particularly the poor, and invalided.
Public use of the Spa well begins in earnest. Thomas Connolly has the water tested from the well for
its curative properties.
1796
Aqueduct opened for canal traffic.
1803
The death of Thomas Connolly means the further development of the Spa Bath with Pump Room
and Hotel which was planned was never proceeded with. It seems that it reputation may have been
lost due to the exaggerated claims of its curative properties as it popularity had declined.
1815
With the ending of the Napoleonic Wars, people begin to travel again to the continent to visit Spas,
increasingly attracted on the basis of health. The benefit of the more elaborate Spa accommodation
at Lucan led to it being more popular than Leixlip. Smaller, rural Spas fell out of favour both in
Ireland and England during this time.
1845
155km of Royal Canal was sold to Midland and Great Western Railway Co. which in turn used the
aqueduct embankment as a quick and easy way of constructing the rail line to Mullingar. This greatly
improved the access to Leixlip.
1848
New railway station called Louisa Bridge and Leixlip opened on the East of the canal.
1851
Railway Station renamed Leixlip.
1852
Passenger Canal boats ceased despite attractive pricing, due to competition from the rail network.
1885
Construction of the Lucan, Leixlip and Celbridge steam Tramway
1892 -1893
Dublin Naturalists Field Club visited the Chalybeate springs, the first record is made in Ireland of a
particularly rare species of fungi (Uromyces Parnessiae) At this stage the Well and the Bath had
fallen out of favour with the public and had been forgotten.
1897
1 Tillyard S. Aristocrats, Caroline, Emily. Louisa and Sarah Lennox 1740-1832 .pg 352
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Lucan, Leixlip and Celbridge steam Tramway ceased due to the low demand.
1933
A rare Snail was discovered in the lower flood plain.
1946
Population of nearby Leixlip had fallen to 467 from 1,358 in 1821
1961
The Royal Canal shut down to navigation, though official closure stated as April 6th 1966.
1963
Louisa Bridge Station closed to passengers, though the export of livestock still kept cattle on the
trains and in the adjoining goods area.
1960s
Valley proposed as a possible dump location by a local businessman, saved by the addition of
public car park at Louisa Bridge entrance, for CIE.
1972
An Foras ForBatha complete the first report indicating that the area south of the River Rye (including
the Spa and fountain was an area of scientific interest. This was noted as an area of scientific
interest because of the unusual and rare plants found in this unique environment provided by the
springs and the temperature of the water.
1972
Use of the goods area alongside the railway station for livestock storage ceases, opening the way
for its future use as a car park instead of the area adjoining the Spa.
1974
Restoration begins on the Royal Canal by volunteers who formed the Royal Canal Amenity group
determine to ensure it would be navigable.
1975
European Architectural Heritage year the Kildare branch of An Taisce adopted the Spa Bath
restoration as its project, scouts and the local youth club were enlisted to help. They dug out the
Bath which had been buried and redirected the water from the ponds towards the Bath, having
unblocked the overflow. The Intention was that it be used as a paddling pool for local children.
1976
Report prepared by Niall Meagher, County Architect on “The History and Development of Leixlip
Spa.”
1978
Brendan Dalt KCC Refers to the Spa and Bath as being listed for preservation in the County
Development Plan
1979
Property leased by CIE to Kildare County Council for use with conditions that it is used as
an amenity area, with improvements to be carried out on the Spa well and Bath and
prevention of itinerant‟s encampments on the site. Spa and Bath restoration near complete.
KCC begin installation of a trunk sewer in connection with the Regional Sewage scheme
involving a sewer under the Royal Canal ( Note letter on file from June Eiffe noting that the
work which caused the diversion of the overflow from the Spa well was causing the area in
the immediate vicinity of the Bath to become flooded, she noted that this area was previously
dry enough for the boy scouts to camp on.)
An Foras Forbarha carried out a commissioned study on plants.
1980
Note on KCC`S File to the effect that the box drain ( which suggested an C18TH stone culvert) from
the Spa well had collapsed, and also a letter from the County Engineer to Eric Wallace KCC refers
to using a new pipe to direct water rather than the existing box drain. It was noted that this pipe will
discharge at a lower level then the former box drain, lowering the water level in the pond area. Levels
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were taken of site along the pipeline route, relative to Poolbeg Datum. An Foras ForBatha asked to
discuss change in pipe with contractor.
1980s
Dredging of the river Rye and straightening of its line carried out for fisheries purposes. This work
causes change to the plant environment and natural flood plains along its edge.
1981
Louisa Railway Station opened again for passengers, creating a demand for car parking.
1981
The Leixlip Spa Amenity Scheme was established as part of an environmental trail linking features
along the Royal Canal from Louisa Bridge. Recommendations made regarding parking facilities.
1981
Proposal made by a local pitch and put club to lease the northern side of River Rye (adjoining
waterfall) as a new pitch & putt course, turned down in favour of a conservation use such as nature
trail.
1983
Works carried out by KCC to landscape the site, to conserve the Bath and Spa well to stabilize the
banks adjoining the Spa and bring a district drain for housing estates to the west across the car
park. As part of these works a new boardwalk over the streams was established to the east of the
Bath. Trees were planted on both sides of path down the middle level to which a gravel surface was
installed and a viewing point above the Bath. The report refers to manhole between fountain and
pond being cleaned out, and also the repair of the inlet pipe into the Bath. Tom Kennedy of the Irish
Times wrote of “metal plates inserted as barriers underground to spread the flow of water” and he
also noted the importance of the existence of the Tufa petrifying spring. Mr. Kennedy (a noted
ecologist) spoke of the Spa as being comparable to the “Thijisse Hof” in Holland (an instructional
garden to show native plant species in a natural environment to schoolchildren). This was in contrast
to KCC documentation of the time referring to “The Leixlip Spa Park” and extensive detailed
drawings to install paths, steps and a pedestrian bridge across the river to the waterfall side.
1984
A Report by an Foras ForBatha describes the Bath as being in good condition, though
vandalism was taking place at the weekends. Roger Goodwille of an Foras ForBatha noted
“more recent work connecting the cleaning of the Bath and laying out part of the drain has
resulted in water flow becoming more directed than formerly on the slope down to the river.”
Letter from June Eiffe in an Taisce noted that area besides the Bath at eastern end upper
terrace was now flooded when it was previously dry, and noted that the water had been
diverted because of the main drain sewage works being carried out by KKC.
An Taisce suggest that they take up a lease on the Spa well site.
Allocation made for footbridge linking the two sides of the valley under the environmental
improvement scheme allocation
Niall Meagher, County Architect & Planner, suggested the setting up a scientific Advisory
service. Comprising of
An Foras ForBatha
An Taisce
Dublin Naturalists` Field Club
National Museum
Eastern Fisheries Board
1985
Maintenance works carried out to Bath and well.
Weed is cut to the east of the upper pond, the Bath is cleaned and the grass is cut around the park,
the Spa well was cleaned out. The wire fence around the upper ponds was repaired. New gates
were to be fixed in the open position. Picnic tables added to the car park area and nature trail
markers.
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1985- late 1990s-2000
Travellers‟ camp at the site and the KCC install an Armstong junction drain for the encampment on
the car park. Considerable damage was caused during this period, to the brickwork on the Bath and
granite surrounds were removed. Cider parties and rubbish caused blocking of the box drain by
plastic bags to the Spa well. Gates were torn down and the trees damaged or uprooted
1986
Population of Leixlip increased dramatically from 2,402 in 1971 to 11,938 in 1986.
Rye valley riding school asked not to ride through the area.
Suggestion made to add a style to close off accessibility of riders and motorcycles
Old Car wreck removed.
Noted that the wet steps needed attention.
It was noted that the flow of water to the East of the Bath needed to be directed.
A suggestion was made that the toll collectors house be refurbished and put to use as a
nature study centre
1987
Quote for works received for Leixlip Spa to avail of E.U funded amenity grant.
The Irish Geological Survey of Ireland through Bob Aldwell asks for permission to bore in the
Spa area to test geothermal potential.
1989
Intel establishes in Leixlip, the adjoining football pitch was bought by Intel from a local club as sports
grounds for their staff. For a while it was thought that the installation of a ditch along the boundary
caused the western side of the site to dry out. This was proved erroneous in recent Hydrological
report prepared by Dr. Pamela Bartlett.
Leixlip Town Council publishes Lēim Ar Aghaidh in a development programme for Leixlip which
includes aim of balanced conservation & development of the Spa architecture and flora & fauna.
1990
Consideration was given by KCC to closing the lowest terrace south of the River Rye off to the
public.
1991
It was decided by KCC to drop the pedestrian bridge over the river Rye as no contractors would
respond due to the difficulties and restrictions on access.
1991
Leixlip Town Council publish information brochure on Spa, Canal, Aqueduct & Railway.
1992
Sewage works carried out for health and safety reasons to Traveller‟s encampment.
1994
The Eastern Fisheries Board with funding from Intel start monitoring fish stocks in the River Rye in
conjunction with UCD to rejuvenate Spawning beds and the banks of the river as far as the
aqueduct. Beyond the aqueduct towards town centre the beds are enhanced to allow Spawning of
trout and salmon and the river banks are cut back. Holes are formed in the bed to encourage
whorls.
1996
Adoption of the Leixlip Spa site as an SAC area constituted part of the Rye valley/ Carton Estate
Special Area of Conservation SAC 0011398) the priority habitat, petrifying springs with tufa
Formation (7220) 9Annex 1, EU habitats Directive. This gives the backing of EU legislation to the
NHA (Natural Heritage Areas) and ensures that the government undertakes the protection and
monitoring of these fragile environments.
Metal barriers were erected at the entrance following vacation of site by travellers.
2000
New railway platforms and station built to connect to the existing Station now called Leixlip/Louisa
Bridge.
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2003
Due to lack of awareness of the Spa well and Bath the site was not recorded when the Record of
Protected structures was formulated under the National Inventory of Architecture of Ireland (NIAH) it
has since been added and is considered to be of national significance.
The Leixlip Local Area Plan in 2003 adopted the Spa well and Roman Bath as protected structures
along with the toll collectors house. This plan also added named protected views, from the
aqueduct towards the waterfall and from the bridge. Omitted from this was the protection of the
aspect from the Spa Bath towards the waterfall and the lock house.
2004 March
Report prepared by CAAS environmental services for Leixlip Town Council titled” Framework for the
Future Use, Options for Leixlip Spa” was prepared. It proposes an extensive upgrade of existing
paths network within the site and installation of a picnic area to the Louisa Bridge end with
refurbishment of the Spa well and Bath.
2005
The Eastern Fisheries Board with funding from Intel win an international environmental prize for best
documented river rejuvenation project in Europe.
2007 May
.Report by LTTA on new car park for 340 cars which had been opened to the South side of Louisa
Bridge indicating that cars were no longer parking along the verge of the road.
2007 July
Survey for Vertigo Angusitor at Louisa Bridge, Co. Kildare (SAC 001398 Rye Water Valley Carton) by
Dr. Evelyn Moorkens noted that it was not found in areas where it was previously located in this site.
2007 Sept
Vegetation map of the site commissioned by Kildare County Council carried out.
2007 Oct
Report prepared by Nicki Matthews, Conservation Architect, on the conservation works to the Spa
and Bath and the necessity of establishing a Conservation Management Plan for the overall site.
Stage One of the Plan was carried out which was to establish the historical & architectural
significance of the Spa and well including the recommendation for a management plan and
framework of policies to be put in place for the overall site. It is also recommended that this site be
put forward as a set piece/ historic landscape under the new NIAH designation of gardens and
planned landscapes. Comprising of all the built elements and terracing of the landscape to be
viewed as a set piece in tandem with its natural setting.
2007 Nov
John Colgan, Spa committee, Leixlip Tidy Town Association representative affirmed that the LTTA
would aim to do a litter pick every six months. Bollards were reinstalled at entrance to prevent illegal
parking.
2007 Nov
Proposal made by Earth route (environmental company) for the creation of paths through Intel to
the edge of the Rye river / Spa site for recreation of their staff and wider community, this was later
rejected as being too intrusive and a security risk to the Intel site.
2007 July
Water Ways Ireland agree with LTTA proposal to install viewing place overlooking Rye from
Aqueduct and installation of interpretive panel on the canal towpath.
2008 March
Application for Part 8 applied for works to the waterfall site to install a boardwalk or steps to the
base.
2008 April
Level survey taken of the waterfall and Spa site by KCC including water levels.
2008 Sept
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Report by Hydro- G on hydrogeology of the Spa site, and the tracing of the drains installed by KCC
across the previous car park site. It is advised that if the site is to be re-engineered in any way that
the sites hydrological characteristics when the groundwater levels recede i.e. (summer) require
characterisation.
2008 Nov
Installation of a boardwalk to waterfall side of the site, Information boards on history at Louisa
Bridge, at the toll collectors house and a new viewing platform is formed on the aqueduct looking
over the Rye River. This was funded by Bōrd Failte and KCC with text & illustrations supplied by
John Colgan, local historian, for the LTTA and managed by Parks superintendant Simon Wallace,
KCC.
2008 Nov.
Heritage Week; Visit to the site organized to raise public awareness.
2009 February
Report Leixlip Spa Management Plan produced as draft.
A second report is produced by Melinda Lyons on the Louisa Bridge Waterfall Site Management
Plan. First priority actions under this include scrub removal. Second and third priority actions are to
be carried out in 2009-2010 with the continued implementation of this plan over the next few years.
2009 February
Application was made by Siobhain Barry, Leixlip Town Clerk for a grant from the Heritage Council to
enable the creation of a conservation management plan. Funding will not be forthcoming for grants
from OPW, Follies Trust or Heritage Council until a management plan is in place.
2009 March
Appropriate Assessment Screening of Leixlip local area Plan 2008 in line with the requirements of
Article 6(3) of the EU Habitats Directive prepared by Golders Associates for KCC clarifying impact of
the development plan and policy formation in relation to SAC areas.
2009 May
Laura Bowen was appointed by KCC to implement the remaining stages of the conservation plan,
prepared by Nicki Matthews starting with consultations with all the stakeholders of the site.
2009 June July
Face to face meetings were held with most attendees of the Leixlip Spa Committee for Interim
Report to KCC in Mid July with a Draft Conservation Plan for consultation with members and KCC by
the end of August.
2009 July 27th
Interim meeting held with Simon Wallace of KCC to report on progress.
2009 August 6th
Site visit made with Des O Leary, Architectural Department KCC in attempt to locate manhole or
drain run.
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3.0 Assessment of the significance of the site.
3.1 Statement of significance
This site is a highly significant heritage site in many areas. In a European context the Spa well is a
rare example of a mineralised thermal spring which gives rise to unique habitats of flora and fauna. It
is among the top five petrifying Tufa springs in Ireland and aspects of its ecology and fauna put it
as a priority one under the European designation as an SAC, whose rarity and fragility need
protection.
In its wider cultural sense it forms part of the larger c18 th landscape which is still intact in this part of
Kildare particularly along the Rye and Liffey river valleys. Its strong association by location and
culture with the historical figures of Louisa and Thomas Connolly around which there is good
information provide the basis for relating this location with the nearby demesnes. At present the
idea that a landscape should be protected is a growing area of study and is recognized by the
setting up of the new survey recording designed landscapes and gardens by the National Inventory
for Architectural Heritage (NIAH). Architecturally there are no other examples of a thermal Bath of
this type in Ireland.
3.2 Community Resource:
The Leixlip Spa site lies on a number of terraces carved in limestone bedrock, this bedrock was
quarried to supply building material for adjoining houses, further excavation was necessary when
the construction of the canal aqueduct began which is effectively a large embankment over a single
bore tunnel, over 100ft above the river Rye beneath. This may have created the terraces visible
today.
When the thermal spring was discovered under the canal route by workmen in the 1790s they
diverted it to a constructed hexagonal basin adjoining the towpath to form the Spa well. The
hexagonal perimeter surrounding this has a grooved channel going in a north westerly direction
towards an oval brick lined Roman Bath with symmetrical steps at both ends. The Bath was formerly
fed by warm water. The Bath was set on a lower terrace formed by the construction of the aqueduct
and was has been located to take advantage of views over the River Rye, of the waterfall (canal
overflow) to the north, the aqueduct and the lock house or the other points of interest. The backdrop
to the whole set piece was the tree shrouded slopes of Mount Thunder to the north. There were
facilities provided at the Spa well adjoining the canal to allow water to be brought up to the higher
level by a bucket so that passengers in a coach on the towpath could take the waters without
alighting. Passengers on the canal were also facilitated by this feature of the well. It appears that the
Spa well and Bath had good use for at least 20 years though then gradually fell into decline and then
out of use. By the end of the 19 th century the use of Bath and Spa had been abandoned and
forgotten, and the site was given over to cattle grazing.
The Spa Bath and basin were rediscovered in the 1970s by scouts who at the time camped on the
site and community groups proposed the use of the Bath as a local paddling pool for the small
children in the area. In 1975 the European Heritage year the refurbishment of the Bath and well was
adopted by an Taisce and funding was obtained. In 1980s work was undertaken to the Bath, with
some labour such as the digging out carried out by the local youth group and the scouts. Technical
advice and contracting work such as consolidation and brickwork were funded by KCC and An
Taisce and the Bath were envisaged as an amenity for locals. This refurbishment work was originally
to the area south of the River Rye, the Spa site in general was developed as a park which was to be
linked as part of a nature route between Maynooth and Leixlip. During the late eighties very little use
was made of the park and it became a neglected area vandalised by a disaffected youths which
was further compounded by the establishment of a traveller‟s encampment in the previous CIE car
park located adjoining Louisa Bridge. However the amenity use of this site in the more recent times
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has become more significant in the minds of the local community with the growth in population in
Leixlip and increased urbanization.
The adjoining canal and railway connections and the sites close proximity to the town with
the established walking trail on the canal towpath means that the Spa and waterfall site are again
accessed by the community. The recent development of the boardwalk and viewing platform
adjoining the waterfall have giving new access to base of the waterfall on the northern side of the
River the access to this will need to be monitored to ensure this now doesn‟t attract groups. While
the heritage of the Spa well itself may not be apparent to the new residents/ locals the site has
become important to Leixlip as a rural retreat.
Shorthand
Always accessible by the public and the Spa was seen as a public resource to the
Community since its very beginning.
Inextricably linked to the development of the Royal Canal and its use.
Link to the ideas of c18 th cultural & planned landscape of Castletown & Carton House
3.3 Social:
There is great social significance in the fact that the major landowners and power brokers had
established their country estates along the banks of the Liffey and its tributary in close proximity to
Dublin, the seat of parliament. These powerful individuals left their impression on the surrounding
landscape by a cluster of large landholdings and demesnes and designed landscapes within the
area. There was a degree of rivalry for patronage of the landlords for their tenants to demonstrate
their status and impose or express their aesthetics on their environment.
Tom Conolly was a member of the Commons and the major landowner in Leixlip when the spring
was discovered upon his lands. Thomas Conolly`s wife, Louisa Augusta Lennox, was sister to Lady
Emily Mary Lennox, who married to the Earl of Kildare. He later became (in 1776) the 1 St Duke of
Leinster. In 1758 Louisa married Thomas Conolly, of Castletown, County Kildare, becoming Louisa
Conolly. Louisa and her sisters Emily and Caroline were highly educated, bilingual in English and
French and widely travelled both were totally au fait with the prevailing fashions of the continent as
well as having a well connected pedigree to the highest levels of English society.
The erection of the aqueduct and the route modifications to the Royal Canal in this location
were influenced by the second Duke of Leinster who was on the board of the New Royal Canal
Company. He was a brother-in- law to Thomas Conolly. The Duke wished to re route the Royal
Canal around his estate in Maynooth to allow a deep water harbour to the edge of his estate at
Maynooth and bring the canal adjoining his leased estates thus obtaining higher lease values from
his tenants who would have valuable transport links for disposing of their produce. This route
necessitated the use of an aqueduct over the River Rye. There was an enormous cost to
establishing this new canal route involving thousands of workers and at the time was one of the
biggest constructional projects in Europe. The proximity to the existing Grand Canal rather than the
more northerly alternative route meant that the two canal routes effectively starved each other of
business. Due to the more expensive constructional aspects, the Royal Canal Company became
economically unviable from the start and had to subsist with injections of government money. That a
vested interest by a few men could influence the route of a major piece of infrastructure is testament
to the social fabric of the society at the time. The coming of the Great Western railway made use of
the already built aqueduct as part of the new line which was bought out from the failing Canal
Company ensuring two major systems of infrastructure passed through Leixlip.
Historically the development of a Spa had significance for a cross section of classes. Most
Landlords looked to develop their estates and the establishment of a Spa well and Bath for public
use ensured a steady stream of overnight stays and trade in the locality. Although the Spa itself
didn‟t become a commercial venture due to the death of Thomas Conolly (who died without an heir),
he appears to have had plans for a pump room and hotel before his death. Many landlords of the
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period particularly in England derived additional income such as the bottling of Spa water. The fact
that the Spa Bath remained undeveloped and accessible to all sectors of society meant that the
lower social classes made good use of the Leixlip Bath. In contrast the sulphur springs in Lucan
were seen as more fashionable destination and had associated and purpose built entertainment and
accommodation provided.
The visiting of Spas allowed for mixing of social classes and became very popular in time as a new
forum for social interaction between an emerging middle class and labouring class. With the
development of the Lucan Spa with Hotel and Pump room the use of the external bath in its rural
location fell out of favour. Samuel Lewis publication of the Topographical Dictionary of Ireland gave
a description of Leixlip in 1837 he describes it popularity in the past tense noting “a chalybeate
spring of great strength and purity, which was in high repute towards the close of the last century”.
He also notes that the spring was a half a mile from the centre of the town which he describes as
one street with some of the houses in neglect. There was a great rivalry between the Spas of Lucan
and Leixlip at the turn of the 19 th century, with Lucan Sulphur Spa attracting crowds by holding
concerts and dances in the locality. The Lucan Spa too was located a half a mile from Lucan town
though nearer to the travelling public and eventually won out when accommodation such as “The
Crescent” was built as lodging houses, erected for the accommodation of those visiting the Spa.
Travel by passenger barges ceased in the mid c19 th when they were replaced by train access. In
time, the use of the Spa Bath in Leixlip became forgotten and hidden from memory. 2 The site was
used by local farmers for grazing until the early 1970s. The area of the site nearest Louisa Bridge
was in the ownership of CIE and used as a public car park until taken over by a traveller‟s
encampment this meant that the rediscovered Bath site in particular was subject to antisocial
behaviour such as on-going graffiti and fires.
3.4 Educational
The site is of great historical & social importance; its importance today as a heritage site is
more of a part of an amenity of the Royal Canal rather than as a development in its own
right. There seems to be a consensus that there is no push to redevelop its use for spring
water or Bathing, rather to maintain it as a symbol of that past enterprise.
The origins of this cultural landscape are set in the past and reflect both the structure and
the social pursuits of the societies and who worked and lived in c18 th . It demonstrates the
role of the c18 TH landowners as patron, improving the estates by the installation of the canal/
Spa Bath. This resource was discovered by the community through the scouts & youths and
recognized as being a finite resource.
As part of their social interaction with the community, Intel the biggest manufacturer in the Country is
disposed towards highlighting this neighbouring resource for educational purposes. They currently
bring school trips to the area adjoining their own site but wish to include the historic and ecological
importance of the Spa site. It was noted by an ecologist that this site had the potential to become an
important educational ecological site similar to the “Thissije Hof” in Holland. This is an area in
Holland that is used to educate school children in the form of a natural park, to demonstrate native
plants and habitats in a naturally occurring habitat.
2 Newspaper Article in Freemans Journal (1763-1924) published on Monday July 28, 1924
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3.5 Scientific
The site was well known as a place of scientific interest from the earliest times. Its earliest use as a
quarry and as material for the aqueduct meant that bedrock became exposed or brought nearer the
surface. The Spa well lays on a fault line the importance of this which was known to the Irish
geologists from a very early date. The fault line which aligns itself along the Lucan Celbridge towards
West Meath and as far as Enfield contains a number of hot springs. These springs are generally
associated with very deep faults and or synclines and the water associated with them is of an older
water age.
The term Spa originates from the Latin 'Salus per Aqua' which means 'health through water', Spas
and Bath were a legacy from the Romans had been very popular in mainland Europe for recreation,
Bathing and the waters curative properties. There was also a tradition in Ireland from druidic times in
which pagan scared wells and springs always associated with healing and deities, and were
rebranded as holy wells from which cures could be sought. The rituals associated with the Bathing
were accommodated by a patrons day such as that held at St. Bridget‟s. Well. These Patron days
were where festivals and socializing would occur, though these days gradually became more formal
and Christianised there was a strong tradition of both the spring/ wells curative properties and as a
recreational meeting place. By the early c18th the medical profession began to espouse the benefits
of drinking mineral water as well as the more inconvenient bathing and noted a long list of diseases
suitable for cure by these methods. There is very little information on Spas in Ireland at the time but
the situation in England informed the fashion of the development of Spas. By the early c18 th in her
book “Baths and Spas in England 1560-1815” the author Phyllis May Hembry noted there were very
few bathing spas in England as most dealt with drinking water. Some medical practitioners believed
that a cold spring bath generally up to the neck was much healthier than a warm spring. Towards
the end of the century the year round season of indoor Spas began to take hold; the benefits of
finding a spring particularly a highly mineralized „warm‟ spring could bring travellers‟ willing to spend
money to stay the night in the locality, thus bringing a stimulus to the local economy. To a landowner
of the time it was important to get the water tested by scientific method or endorsed by a medical
practitioner to ensure its popularity, and perhaps in Ireland`s case to distinguish the curative
properties of the water from what was thought to be pagan or popish superstition. This is probably
why Thomas/ Louisa Conolly wishing to develop the discovery of the thermal spring had it tested to
determine whether it had any health giving properties.
Extract taken from the Dublin Penny Journal in 1837 written by Terence O'Toole. 3
Just beneath the bridge that carries the road over the canal, is one of the most beautiful and abundant
spring wells in Ireland - if it was known in old times it would have been sanctified, as most such are in
Ireland - but it burst out for the first time from the depths of the earth on the excavation of the canal; and
as it was discovered in winter, and as its deep seated source caused it to appear warmer than other more
superficial springs, so, immediately there were attributed to it virtues of no ordinary degree, and the
crowds that in faith (for the Irish are rich in that cardinal virtue,) resorted to it were enormous. While the
credulity lasted, the harvest of coach and noddy owners (for jaunting-cars were not yet in fashion,) was
3 O'Toole was the nom-de-plume or alias of the Rev Caesar Otway, one time Church of Ireland curate of Leixlip, who
lived in Newtown House, Leixlip. Taken from research provided by John Colgan in preparation for his second volume on
the history of Leixlip town.
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immense strings of carriages, miles long, might be seen on Sundays issuing from Dublin, containing crowds
anxious to apply, internally ,or externally, its healing waters; and attestations of its curing the blind
- restoring the palsied - strengthening the lame, came before the public every day. But alas, the powers of
ridicule were brought to bear against it, and one wicked wight drew a caricature in which he represented a
broken down noddy as washed by the Leixlip Spa water, and all its spokes and shafts, under the mopping of
the jarvey, becoming strong and strait. This certainly was a pity; and no one in the world was served by
dissipating such an innocent and salutary delusion, and after all it is not only a beautiful but an
extraordinary spring; for if you believe all the neighbours, not a fish or frog will live in its waters; and
though there is a floculent, rusty-coloured, ochreous matter constantly rising to the surface of the well,
exactly similar to that which is found in spring's strongly impregnated with iron, yet no test, either gallic
acid or prussiate of potash, can detect any iron; but in the centre of this floculent matter is found a very red
little worm about half en inch long, which all those who have still faith in the salubrity of the well say is the
sovereignest remedy alive for a sore leg: nay more, let anyone who has drank over night from 15 to 20
tumblers of punch, and whose head is so hot that it makes the water fizz into which it is put, let him but take
a quart or two of the water of this spring on the following morning, and he will lose all his whiskey fever
and walk home as cool as a cucumber. I assure you, gentle reader, I have seen sundry making the
experiment, and I actually saw them afterwards sober.
A number of thermal springs were known to geologists in this area however this spring at Leixlip
was known to contain the most mineralized water being described historically as chalybeate or iron
rich. The mixture of temperature and mineralization coupled with the excavated areas exposing the
bedrock close to the surface in turn facilitated the development of unique habitats. It was this which
attracted the Dublin Naturalist field club and was referred to in their newsletter in 1895 long after the
use of the Bath and the spring had been forgotten. The site constitutes part of the River Rye Valley
Special Area of Conservation (SAC) containing protected habitats including calcareous grasslands
and petrifying Tufa springs, including rare and protected species of fauna including molluscs‟
species; Vertigo Moulinsiana and Vertigo Angustior. Any works such as the installation of Paths ,
Walls within the SAC including maintenance requires it to be notified to the Minister through the
NWPS.
The earliest legal definition for protection of the Leixlip Spa as an area of scientific interest was by an
Foras Forbathas which noted its plant life and spring as being of scientific interest and included this
area as an extension of the River Rye from Carton. This area then became transposed into a Natural
Heritage Area, and subsequently a “proposed special area of conservation”. Under this designated
protection the species and habitats are listed and given a priority of protection, this European based
legislation requires the site to be monitored by the government to ensure that the health of the
habitats are being maintained with reports given on a six yearly basis 4 . The location of the adjoining
Intel factory which under its own licensing is required to monitor water levels and water quality
testing means that there is a lot of information available on the adjoining hydrology of the site. The
preparation and commissioning of reports on the hydrology, ecology and heritage by KCC means
that the site is recognized as a complex and significant site because of all these competing values.
3.6 Aesthetic Values
Located in a valley or cleft to the West of Leixlip this areas contains a confluence of a number of
significant landscape features, the number of architectural features such as the aqueduct, the toll
collectors house, the roman Bath and Spa and the canal overflow were planned to take full
4 http://www.npws.ie/en/PublicationsLiterature/ConservationStatusReport/
Link to recent report on the status of the site, next report in 2013
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advantage of the natural features of the site. The sense of progression through the site has to be
imagined from the perspective of the main approach by the visitor which arrived by canal or road.
The well was positioned tucked alongside the toll path but accessible from above. The positioning of
the Bath along a central pathway to view them on a lower terrace took full advantage of the terracing
and views of the aqueduct and waterfall/ canal overflow directly opposite. The site itself is
supplemented by the River Rye valley and the linear park of the Royal Canal and its towpath, all
located in what is a small area. The proximity of this site to edges of Leixlip housing estates to the
east and adjoining the Intel site, one of the largest Industrial sites in Ireland means that the sense of
rural in the place is more pronounced and a complete surprise in what appears to be on the modern
road approach in a very busy area, contrasted of course if you were to travel by canal. In particular
the topography of the site means that sounds are contained within the valley including the sound of
the waterfall from the canal overflow and visitors are struck by the quietness in which the sound of
insects and water predominant. Inland Waterways Ireland have established the Royal Canal as a
linear park. The tow path is elevated on the aqueduct above the site, and has picnic tables installed
along the bank. The recent installation of the new viewing platform to the centre of the Aqueduct
embankment means that there is now a new vista to the west over the River Rye valley which shows
the sheer scale of the rear of the Intel factory which is spread over 350 acres and is over one mile in
length and gives a powerful counterpoint of new technology / industry adjoining a natural setting.
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4.0 Identified Vulnerabilities- Management Issues
The order in which these items are addressed is not a reflection of their importance as each is
significant in its own way.
4.1 Condition of Fabric and setting
At present the site at the entrance in particular with the banked earth and measures to stop
vehicles entering including metal barriers and ESB poles is not visually inviting.
The deterioration of the fabric due to anti–social behaviour facilitated by the isolated nature
of the sites topography in particular this has been characterised by drinking parties
adjoining the Roman Bath.
The site enjoys considerable legal protection under the SAC, which essentially limits
interventions only to those necessary to maintain the site, it also contains plants and
animals that are also of scientific significance and enjoy further legal protection. Any works
that do take place should maintain or improve the ecological status of the site.
Any works including maintenance to structures will need a declaration because of protected
nature as well as an assessment on the effect on the ecology which the works are
undertaken.
4.2 Access
The site is at this point in time is accessed by people walking their dogs or groups of
youths. With the main through fare being on the canal towpath above and adjoining the site
which has become a popular walking route.
The pedestrian linkage across the site means that there is desire line route at present
directly alongside the Bath, which comes through a very steep and slippery path across an
old boardwalk, so that anyone coming along the central path can be suddenly faced with a
youth and a dog, in an area that is not overlooked.
Proximity to the adjoining urban area and increasing population growth means that there is
an appetite to experience the rural feel of this location.
The conflict arising between the need to protect the fabric of the architectural heritage and
the application of health and safety measures for a fully assessable site means that any
measures applied to the site are in keeping with its significance and historical milieu.
The Health and Safety aspects of standing water.
4.3 Ownership and funding
There is a complexity of the ownership and interests within the site and outside the site
along its boundary.
There is a strong involvement by the community over time. There is a desire for the public to
access this area as a park or have the ability to go down to the river. This situation has
diminished in part in response to the antisocial gathering which has deterred its use as a
park. While this remains; the site does not look like it is being maintained or within
ownership.
That the sources for funding may determine the order of work or the type of work.
Sources to date have been a combination of capital funding and grants through KCC
heritage grants LTC, Bord Failte as well as help with the maintenance through volunteer
groups, local residents committees or Leixlip Tidy town committee.
4.4 Existing Legal Framework for protection
Responsibilities under the protected structures legislation means there is a requirement to
conserve the significance and fabric of the built heritage. Any changes required to meet
legal obligations cannot detract from the character or its setting within the landscape.
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Any works including maintenance to structures will need a declaration because of protected
nature as well as an assessment on the effects to the ecology.
Any works to fabric of the built heritage will need a high standard of expertise, materials and
workmanship and the input of a conservation architect.
There is an obligation to prevent further decay of the fabric and in the case of the collectors
house this is an immediate necessity.
The setting has survived to a remarkable degree but it is vulnerable to visual disruption from
poorly sited development outside the boundaries of the site, such as masts, ESB lines, or
inappropriately placed houses. The vista within the site is also important such as the view
from the Bath to the Waterfall and the toll collector‟s cottage.
4.5 Proper Understanding and Knowledge of the place.
There is a general lack of knowledge on the part of the public of the designed landscape,
the significance of the Hydology of the area giving rise to unique habitats and the site
history. Coherent information on the site is lacking.
Rarity of the conditions for the Habitats.
The Hydrology of the site is key to several significant aspects.
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6.0 Implementation
6.1 Summary
This sites location and vistas allows the linking together of the two major demesnes, Castletown and
Carton to Leixlip which to have been cut off from their hinterland by the recent motorway. The site in
the future could be a valuable resource to develop a cultural tourism point around the historical
figures and landscape within the area. The site is ideally situated by the Canal Linear Park and
adjoining transport links to move the centre of interest in this landscape back towards it. The
adjoining uses of the lands whether or not within the ownership of KCC needs to be reviewed as
changes in ownership occur. The Spa is a complex site, and that complexity is due to significance in
a number of rare habitats and features. The hydrology of the site is integral to it, but the
management of the natural processes on the site is at present causing the change in the ecology
not the change in water flow as previously understood.
6.2 Further Studies
To form a complete understanding of the Hydrology a study needs to be completed over a
longer period and gaps within the plan in relation to Flora and Fauna information reviewed. The
hydrology report commissioned indicated a fundamental change in the environment occurred in the
past due the diversion of the c18th stone culvert, while recommending that the operation of this
drain remain the same, the culvert needs to be investigated to confirm this understanding of the
working of the Spa and to unblock the drain to lower the water to its original level.
6.3 Monitor the proposal for general access
The access to the site was proposed in a different way- as managed or directed access in
order to limit the introduction of works within the site including protection measures adjoining the
more sensitive areas of the site. It can be seen in the past that the site at one stage was thought of
as a general amenity. In the locality the site is viewed as a valuable resource in what now has
become a built up area, and the engagement within the community and among the members of the
Spa committee has shown the commitment to the area‟s protection over decades. This sense of
ownership needs to be continued.
The policies proposed for access to the site were developed to emphasize the shift
towards the Canal tow path as the amenity from which the site was viewed and which it is presently
set up to be, rather than have two competing amenities side by side. Information for the site is to be
tailored to be discreet within the landscape. Likewise the existing central path to be restored but in
as far as possible to avoid the introduction of further handrails steps or barriers required on the eastwest
cross route. It is very important that the Spa well and Bath within the site can be seen from the
towpath and their significance is interpreted by appropriate information.
6.4 Modification of the draft recommendation on access, previously proposed.
The Spa Committee rejected a proposal to have a managed access policy to the site with gated
stone boundary wall at the entrance. The general consensus was that despite the new viewing
platforms proposed from the canal towpath that the general public access would be curtailed from
viewing the Bath at close quarters. This was also on the premise that the previous removal of historic
fabric was facilitated by an unauthorized caravan encampment and vehicle access, which had now
been dealt with by the use of metal height barriers. It is recommended that the principle of defining
the boundary (which could be a hedge or fence) at the entrance be accepted, as a way of defining
the more sensitive nature of the site. This entrance Space can then be used to inform the public of
access protocols to the site, as the implications of Health and Safety proposals to ancient historic
structures need to be implemented appropriately.
It is also recommended that the order of the refurbishment works to the built heritage are modified
so that the more intact fabric of the Spa well is not exposed until the work to the Bath and
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overlooking viewing platform is completed and its fabric condition monitored over a period of one
year.
The ordering given in terms of priority of actions may need to be reviewed as some of the actions
are dependent on volunteer work or on a timescale related to weather, (i,e. use of lime) or growing
season.
6.5 Review
A periodic review needs to be carried out of the Conservation Plan.
The structural stability of the Toll collector‟s house is probably the first order of priority. The timing of
the rest of the works may be curtailed by the new economic climate and this will need to be
reviewed annually. The raising of the awareness of the significance of the site through a seminar or
launch day could be in tandem with the entrance area though should if possible incorporate the
refurbishment of the Bath and viewing platform.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Matthews, N. (2007) Conservation Plan and Schedule of Works for Roman Bath Unpublished report
for Kildare County Council
Meagher, N. (1976) Canaliana
Caas (2004): Framework for Future Use Options for Leixlip Spa, Co. Kildare. Unpublished report to
Leixlip Town Council
Hydro-G (2008): Hydrological report for Leixlip Spa, Co. Kildare. Unpublished report to Kildare Co.
Council.
Lyons (2009): Leixlip Spa Vegetation Map. Unpublished report to Kildare Co. Council.
Moorkens, E. (2007): Survey for Vertigo Angustior at Louisa Bridge, Co. Kildare. Unpublished report
to Kildare Co. Council.
Lyons, M.( 2009) Louisa Bridge Waterfall Site Management Plan.
Other Sources
Vegetation Survey Map and Level Survey prepared by Kildare County Council.
Tillyard S. Aristocrats, Caroline, Emily. Louisa and Sarah Lennox 1740-1832.
Phyllis May Hembry The English Spa- a social history 1560-1815.
Kildare County Council Files and correspondence 1974- 2009
Finola O'Kane Landscape Design in Eighteenth-Century Ireland: Mixing Foreign Trees with the
Natives Cork University Press, 2004
Taylor Map 1783
Towards a Liffey Valley Park: The Office of Public Works, in association with Dublin City Council
and Fingal, Kildare and South Dublin County Councils, commissioned ERM to draw up a strategy
for the Liffey Valley. The report, Towards a Liffey Valley Park was published in November 2006
and it is being considered by the implementing authorities concerned.
http://www.kildare.ie/CountyCouncil/LeisureServices/LiffeyPark/
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