Conservation works officially began on Tuesday, September 17, which will see Hellfire transform into a “captivating destination for leisure, tourism, and cultural experiences”.
South Dublin County Council Mayor Cllr Baby Pereppadan says this move will positively support tourism development in county Dublin.
“South Dublin County Council’s Tourism Strategy 2024-2029 reflects the Council’s commitment to unlocking the full potential of South Dublin as a vibrant and sustainable tourist destination, of which Hellfire is identified as a major initiative to support tourism development in the County,” he said.
“The planned investment in major projects such as Hellfire, demonstrates our aim to create sustainable experiences that resonate with visitors, while also preserving the natural beauty and the cultural and historic heritage of the area.
“I am excited about Hellfire’s potential and the benefits that will accrue for the local community and visitors alike.
“The conservation works will safeguard the area’s natural beauty while making it accessible to all.
“These works will focus on protecting the existing structures in Massy’s Wood, in particular its walled garden, which is an integral part of the historical fabric of the area.
“The Hellfire Project prioritises sustainability, ensuring that the natural beauty of the Dublin Mountains is protected during all works and in this instance, best practice conservation principles will be sensitively applied whilst also continuing to enable the public to both access and enjoy the beauty of the Massy Woods area.”
Key features of Hellfire will include a state-of-the-art visitor centre providing information, exhibitions, and a café, a treetop canopy walk which will provide an immersive accessible experience that takes visitors high above the forest canopy, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
There’s also plans to restore and conserve the historic Hellfire Club ruins, explore the historic Massy’s Estate, including its woodlands and trails, provide new walks and trails and improvements to existing walks/trails. Improve the road and construct a new footpath, increase in the capacity and size of the existing Hellfire Wood parking area, and conserve the architectural and archaeological heritage features on the site.
It is envisaged that the conservation works will take three months. These sensitive works will take place across the area encompassing Massy’s Wood and its walled garden. Visitors will still be able to access the Hellfire Club, Massy’s Wood, and the walks and trails in the area during the works.
However, it may be necessary to temporarily restrict public access to the walled garden for health and safety reasons. Such closures shall only be for the minimum period of time needed to complete the works at that location and the public is kindly asked to adhere to all health and safety notices on site.
South Dublin County Council Chief Executive, Colm Ward said: “Hellfire represents an important gateway to the Dublin Mountains, offering visitors a place of orientation and interpretation, informing them about the geography, archaeology and history of the area, particularly around Montpelier Hill, Massy’s Wood, and, of course, the Hellfire Club itself.
“The conservation work at Massy’s Wood is an important milestone in safeguarding the historic character of the area and bringing it to life for the local community, visitors and generations to come. In delivering the Hellfire Project and enhancing the area’s facilities, these conservation works will support the area’s cultural identity and increase awareness of its rich history and heritage value.”
Meanwhile, Mark Carlin, MD of Coillte Forest added: “Coillte is delighted to support Hellfire and the conservation works at Massy’s Wood.
“It aligns with Coillte’s ambition to balance and deliver the multiple benefits of forests for climate, nature, wood and people by creating and enhancing sustainable, accessible, and enjoyable outdoor experiences.
“Not only will the conversation works greatly add to the visitor experience in the unique setting of the Dublin Mountains landscape, but they also represent a celebration of the area’s historic past and safeguard it for future generations to come.’’
Hellfire biodiversity enhancement will continue over the coming months with the removal of invasive species and trail improvements as well as carrying out ongoing monitoring and maintenance across the project area.
A suite of trails of various length, degree of accessibility and difficulty class (accessible, easy, moderate or strenuous) and character, will be provided by retaining and upgrading existing roads and paths and developing new sections in places.
