Emo Court regulars breathed a sigh of relief in April when it was confirmed that there was no planned charge for visiting the grounds.
The Office of Public Works has confirmed that no charge for visiting Emo Court or its gardens is planned.
Concerns were raised by locals recently after fencing was erected close to the property.
A petition to ‘Keep Emo Court Free‘ was launched with almost 2,000 people signing it.
Fine Gael Councillor Thomasina Connell contacted the OPW about the issue.
And they have today, via the office of the Minister who has responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’ Donovan, confirmed to her that no charge will be applied and access to Emo Court will remain free of charge.
Neither, they say, are there any future plans to introduce a charge.
The OPW went on to comment on the recently erected fence area which caused significant controversy.
They said: “The fence improves the security of the house and enhances the visit for people who wish to relax and not be intruded upon by joggers, ball games, dogs etc.
“This measure also allows improved control of access to the Tranquil Gardens where we will be hosting intimate events such as music performances, poetry recitals, drama, lectures and such like in future.
“We are endeavouring to accommodate as many people as possible.
“The two gates in the trellis are left open during the day so there is currently access to the Tranquil Garden through the two gates in the trellis, through the Visitor Hub and through a gate at the north of the Clucker.
“I anticipate that a meeting will be arranged with the Head of Heritage Services to provide a full account of the works to be undertaken in order to allay the concerns of our community and hopefully we will have further detail on the proposed future works shortly.”
Cllr Connell said: “I am delighted to receive this confirmation from the OPW, that access to Emo Court will remain free to all who use it.
“People come from far and wide to use this beautiful public amenity and I am pleased that the position with regard to free access will remain unchanged.
“Emo Court is a beautiful place, entrenched in Laois History and where so many people enjoy the woodland walks and extensive parklands on a daily basis.”
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