Campaigners have launched a petition to prevent development plans from going ahead on the historic grounds of the Hellfire Club.
South Dublin County Council has proposed the construction of a €22 million tourist attraction in the area. However, locals strongly object to any interference with the popular walking route.
The Hellfire Club dates back to 1725 when it was known as a meeting point for “wild young gentlemen”. The area is known for its rich lore, particularly an old rumour that the devil appeared at a card game being hosted on the site.
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The petition has already gained over 20,000 signatures. Organisers have called on South Dublin County Council to consider a more appropriate site for their development, as the Hellfire Club holds unique historical and environmental value.
They wrote on Change.org: “There has been no real engagement with any other County Council or other relevant statutory Authority to assess the best place to provide a significant tourist development in the entire Dublin Mountains region, particularly when there are options close to motorways and existing sewerage.”
The Hellfire Club Walk provides visitors with views across the city and has become an amenity over time. The area currently has protection under Planning and National Monument Law.
Many supporters agreed that the site should not be disturbed and called for the plans to be abolished underneath the petition. One person described the development as being “irresponsible” towards the environment.
They wrote: “We are more in need of wild places, oxygen and wild life than we are of shiny new visitor centres. The people encouraging this are selfish and irresponsible, looking for their name on a plaque for a few measly jobs.”
The petition requires 25,000 signatures to spread enough awareness about the cause. It can be viewed on the Change.org site.
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