Cllr John Connolly has welcomed the enhancement works that are ongoing at the old cemetery in Rahoon.
“Over the past year, some works have taken place in cutting back excessive vegetation and remediating paths that had hindered access to the cemetery. This work has allowed people to enjoy the area again and it is now far more welcoming to walkers. The cemetery and old headstones within are now clearly accessible and visible.”
He highlights the noticeable improvements in the area.
“The cemetery is located just off Bishop O’Donnell Road and even as one passes along Bishop O’Donnell Road, the improvement works are noticeable,” Cllr Connolly adds.
“The council are now progressing to rebuild the boundary wall. Tenders have been submitted to complete this work and following assessment of the tenders, a contractor will be appointed, it is hoped that works would be complete by June.
“Some years ago, the council’s heritage office undertook a project on the memorials within the cemetery which found that there 273 people are commemorated on 202 different memorials within the cemetery which include chest tombs and table tombs.
“The earliest memorial dates from 1762.“I’m delighted this project has progressed and I want to thank the council staff in the parks department for the progression of the works following my representations. I would be hopeful that from this point forth, the council will include the old cemetery in the annual work plan of the amenity section.”
He concluded: “The area is of great historical and amenity value to the community.”
