ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT
2.0 INTRODUCTION The proposed interventions within the Fort as outlined within the Design Statement are designed to have minimal impact on the existing protected structures and archaeology of Elizabeth Fort. All proposed works will be overseen by a suitably qualified Conservation Engineer and the City Architects Department in liaison with Cork City Council’s Conservation Officer and Archaeologist. Specific works which will require on ‐ site monitoring by a qualified licensed Archaeologist are also outlined in detail below in 2.2 ‐ Assessment of Impacts and Mitigations . Works to a monument in the ownership of a Local Authority require ministerial consent as well as planning permission in advance of works commencing on ‐ site. The City Archaeologist will apply for Ministerial Consent. The aim of the architectural project is to minimise necessary alterations and to compliment and expand existing uses of an iconic Cork structure. The design proposes, through careful siting, material choice and detailing, to enhance the Elizabeth Fort as a visitor attraction, cultural venue and as an integral part of the City’s public realm. As noted, Elizabeth Fort is listed in the Record of Monuments and Places (CO074 ‐ 03901). The entire complex is also listed in the Record of Protected Structures (RPS No. PS005) in both the current and draft City Development Plans and falls within the South Parish Architectural Conservation Area. The Site is also located along the designated ‘Historic Spine’ in the draft City Development Plan (See Appendix C – Draft City Development Plan 2022 ‐ 2028 ‐ Maps). A detailed ‘Historical Evolution & Appraisal – Conservation Assessment’ on Elizabeth Fort was carried out by David Kelly Engineers & Margaret Quinlan (Grade 1 Conservation Architects) in 2017 (See Appendix B). The Conservation Assessment acts as an important guidance document for the proposed project and contains detailed background information in terms of the Fort’s Historical Development, Descriptions, Condition Report, Significance, Guiding Principles & General Recommendations. Site Investigation information will be used to inform the detail design and works on ‐ site. Extensive Geophysical Surveys have been carried out on the Fort which indicate limited if any archaeology above circa 6 ‐ 700mm below existing ground level. Any excavations associated with the works will be limited to between 300 ‐ 600mm deep and will be monitored on ‐ site by a suitably qualified licensed Archaeologist. Existing topographical and underground utility surveys have also been carried out.
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