$0.00 $0.00 $0.00 ©Paul J Allen 2011 Our Support The 'Hazelwood Action Group Sligo' are supported by the following bodies that include : the Irish Water Skiing Federation, Sligo Water Ski, Sligo Field Club, Irish Georgian Society and Bird Watch Ireland. The Irish Georgian Society says : Hazelwood House is a most important Palladian mansion which sits on a peninsula in Co.  Sligo. The house was constructed in the 1730’s to the designs of Richard Castle (1695-1751), architect of Leinster House, Powerscourt  House and Westport House. The house comprises a central block of three storeys over basement flanked by two curved wings and was  occupied by the Wynne family from the early 18th century until the 1920’s. After this time the house played host to various occupants  including a retired tea planter and the army until, after the Second World War, it was faced with imminent demolition. Fortunately, the  house was saved and again experienced a variety of roles that have succeeded in preserving the house till this day.                Hazelwood House is currently facing an uncertain future. Though the main building was re-roofed some years ago this did not  address the needs of an historic building of its scale and importance. The house, particularly the wings, continues to experience water  ingress that inevitably will lead to major structural faulting if left unaddressed. Furthermore, given that the house is no longer in use, it is  susceptible to further gradual decay brought about by poor ventilation and the lack of adequate heating. This house is certainly one of the most important architectural structures not only in Sligo but in the northwest as a whole. It is a building of international importance that  has survived against the odds. Unfortunately, the building has been compromised by the construction of an industrial unit to the rear but, ultimately, this is reversible and should not impede its preservation. To retain its contribution to the heritage of Sligo a use must be found for Hazelwood that allows for the implementation of an effective conservation/management plan.              The Society believes that the future of this internationally important building must be preserved and that it could play a strong  role as a core educational/tourist amenity for the northwest as a whole. Fortunately, that the Foresthaze Development Plan has not been granted by Sligo County Council. Local residents will still be able to continue enjoy this wonderful amenity. Now that such an  environmental catastrophe has been avoided and the beautiful area of Hazelwood Forest is safe for the present, the Hazelwood Action group Sligo  must turn its attention to the future and particularly the safety and restoration of Hazelwood House,  the first and most important Palladian Villa built to the design of Richard Cassells in 1731. And this is why the ‘Group’ must continue to strive to protect and care for this architectural gem and historic building. Like the ‘House’ we need your help and support, so please join us in this crusade and join the ‘Hazelwood Action Group Sligo. http://hazelwoodheritagesociety.ie/