The Irish Times

Under the 1999 Planning Act, all buildings throughout the State that were listed by local authorities because of their special architectural, historical, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical interest automatically became "protected structures" on January 1st. The new regime imposes a legal obligation on the owner and occupiers of a protected structure to ensure that it is preserved. This applies not only to the building itself, but also to all land round it and to its interior, including fixtures and fittings, according to the regulations. No works that would affect the character of the structure or any element of it that contributes to its special interest may be carried out without prior approval.