Vandals caused over €500,000 in damage to a temporary Office of Public Works (OPW) depot at Donaghcumper House in Celbridge, County Kildare, Ireland. The vandalism involved cutting CCTV wires, overturning vehicles, and dumping a cherry picker into the river. This incident occurred amidst an ongoing dispute over access to the nearby Castletown House.
The dispute centers on access to Castletown House, a historic estate. The main vehicular access point, previously located near the M4, was sold to private developers. This resulted in the closure of the main access road, leaving only a pedestrian entrance (Lime Avenue) open. The OPW’s use of Lime Avenue for vehicle access, despite an initial agreement to have someone walk ahead, has angered local campaigners who fear for pedestrian safety.
The vandalism has further escalated tensions. Local residents express outrage and a desire to protect Castletown House. Proposed solutions include a new car park at the Kildare Innovation Centre, but the OPW’s response is described as lethargic. The use of compulsory purchase powers or the Heritage Act is also considered, though the OPW’s stance is unclear.