Historic view now hidden

Editorial Department • Published 29 Jul 2010 16:00 0 Comments

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Dear Sir, - I am taking this opportunity to write in your newspaper about the two new apartments as one approaches Henry Street, Enniskillen from the Sligo Road.

These apartments don't seem to fit in with the architectural code, and have stolen the view of our magnificent townscape, also our ancient castle (Maguire's Castle), the oldest existing building with its picturesque facade, probably built in 1400c on this prestigious or strategic site, built before the actual town.

Visitors and everybody approaching Enniskillen from the Sligo Road used to see this memorable sight of the town that would greet their eyes. Now this view has been masked by these apartments and there is only a side view of this magnificent castle, which is one of the most famous in Ireland. The only people who get a front view now are sailing in boats or from the back of these new apartments.

I don't think visitors coming in from the Sligo Road would be impressed, as apartments are as common as mud throughout the world and not in keeping with the lovely old houses in Henry Street. There is now only a fleeting glance of the castle sideways and Irvine's Island. The townscape can be seen no more, as is photographed on the enclosed picture. This picture is used as a logo on documentary's and films. The scene that can't be seen, by road. So in the words of Phil Coulter's song: "Oh Lord, what have they done, In the town I love so well."

Yours faithfully,

Shirley Johnston

This letter appeared in Impartial Reporter 29 Jul 10

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