Madam, – I would like to respond to Frank McDonald’s report (“Courts body to meet ‘alarmed’ residents”, April 25th). As a local historian deeply concerned about Wexford’s built heritage, I cannot see as appropriate the proposal for large high-rise blocks and parking areas to be built onto the existing elegant, well-proportioned mellow red-brick building of the 19th century Tate School (later home of Wexford Corporation Borough Council). My current research on former school governor and freeman of the borough of Wexford, Dr George Hadden, has made me realise what a gracious building we have in a green and charming setting.
It would be sad indeed to lose forever one of the town’s most attractive hilly spaces. Hopefully, given the many development spaces elsewhere, enlightened planners and architects will find an appropriate alternative. It is worth noting that Wexford Opera House was planned and erected in full consultation with local residents. – Yours, etc,