Royal Tara under threat

international | environment | other press Tuesday February 08, 2005 12:40 by pc

by Caroline Kenner

Good summary of story of threat to Tara/Skryne Valley from pagan writer

The question becomes, What is Tara Where are the boundaries of the ancient site says Gavin Bone, prominent Pagan author and resident of Kells, on the M3 route. The Roads Authority has defined the sacred precinct of Tara as the small area currently fenced off. But in truth the site is much larger: it sprawls across several hilltops, and includes the whole Skryne Valley.

Thus, by more accurate definition, Tara is the entire complex of tombs, sacred landscape and monumental remains found in the Skryne Valley. This includes an adjacent hill crowned by a tall Christian church tower, Skreen Hill. The route for the M3 proposed by the Irish Road Authority will place a four-lane highway between Skreen Hill and the Hill of Tara. And they plan to build a 30-acre highway interchange within 1.5 kilometers of the High King of Ireland's Banqueting Hall atop Tara.

The 30 acre interchange, which would be located 1000 yards north of the Hill of Tara, will be illuminated by high intensity lights on tall masts. There is also a redevelopment zone around the intersection, which will have a filling station, car dealerships, tire and exhaust repair shops, other shops and possibly some light industry. All of this will bring noise, light and air pollution within 1000 yards of Tara Hill.