This section deals with the impacts on known and potential archaeological sites, features of cultural heritage value and buildings of architectural, artistic, cultural or historic interest and was assessed by Margaret Gowen & Co. Ltd.

1. Buildings of Architectural Interest
A study of buildings and structures of architectural, historic, cultural and artistic importance in the general vicinity of the proposed route identified six structures/buildings of some architectural, cultural or heritage value. Of these one will be directly impacted and will be removed as part of the scheme (Gate-Keeper's Cottage). The remaining five will be indirectly impacted but mitigation
measures are available for each one.

2. Archaeology
Desk studies and subsequent field walkovers and surveys indicate that the chosen route runs through an archaeologically sensitive landscape. A total of 10 recorded archaeological sites were identified within 100m of the proposed route. Of these, 2 will be directly impacted and a further 2 will be indirectly impacted i.e. the route passes through their zone of archaeological potential. Of the remaining six known sites there is the possibility in each case that associated features may be revealed during the comprehensive pre-construction testing strategy. Two sites, considered to be of archaeological potential, were identified during the field inspection as were two areas of potential. In each case, a comprehensive strategy, agreed between Dúchas and the Project Archaeologist, will be adopted at the pre-construction stage. There may also be other potential, unidentified sites uncovered during pre-testing/construction work.
The route includes four stream/river crossings. A mitigation programme specifically in relation to these stream/river crossings will be agreed between the Consultant Underwater Archaeologist, the Project Archaeologist and Dúchas and implemented at the pre-construction stage.

3. Sites of Cultural Interest
Seven sites of cultural heritage potential were identified along the proposed route. Of these six will be directly impacted and the final one will be indirectly impacted. These have been identified for the purposes of alerting the licensed archaeologist at assessment stage to the possibility that building remains and or other features may be uncovered in these areas. Pre-construction mitigation measures may be considered in the case of some or all of these features in order to establish the full extent of any surviving sub-surface features.