Dear Sir/Madam

I strongly support retaining Finnstown Castle and its surrounding lands as High Amenity land.

• Finnstown Castle is a historic estate of around 200 years and is an important part of Lucan's heritage and identity. The Castle, its avenue, grounds and surrounding mature trees form a distinctive and much-loved part of the area.
• This is the last remaining natural green space between the Newcastle Road roundabout and Adamstown and provides an important green buffer in an area that has seen enormous development. This green space should be protected.
• The mature trees, natural habitat and open grounds are an important asset for both wildlife and the local community. At a time when so much of the surrounding area is being developed, it is increasingly important to protect the remaining green spaces.
• Finnstown Castle could provide a valuable focal point for this part of Lucan, giving the area a sense of place and preserving a connection with its history. The lands could be used to provide much-needed green space, walking areas and playing fields for the growing local community.
• I believe the long-term future of Finnstown Castle and its surrounding lands should be protected as an important part of Lucan's heritage, landscape and amenity. Once this green space is lost, it cannot be replaced.

Lucan needs places that give it a sense of identity and history, as well as places where people can enjoy nature, play and spend time outdoors. Finnstown Castle could be an important part of that future.

Yours faithfully

Sarah McDermott