Simon Harris TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) today (07 May 2015) visited Altamont Gardens to view ongoing works.

Speaking at the gardens Minister Harris said: "I am delighted to be here this afternoon to see, at first hand, the works being carried out by my office, the OPW at this wonderful house and gardens. All garden enthusiasts are very familiar with the wonderful Snowdrop Week in February and it comes as no surprise to me that the gardens have become a popular attraction with visitor numbers reaching over 50,000 in 2014".

The gardens were bequeathed to the State in 1999 upon the death of Mrs. Corona North and ongoing restoration and maintenance continues under the stewardship of the Office of Public Works.  A focal point is Altamont House which is located in midst of the gardens and considerable maintenance and remedial works are ongoing.

The Minister added: "My office has already carried out vital remedial and maintenance works to the house and the entrance road and I am pleased to confirm that design work is at an advanced stage for the new Tearooms for which it is hoped the lodge planning permission very shortly. My office will continue to work closely with Carlow Co. Council to progress future enhancement works.  Everyone should take time to visit Altamont at any time of the year and experience the enchanting blend of formal and informal gardens".

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For further information or if you wish to interview Minister Harris please contact Colette Davis, OPW Press Officer – mobile 087 947 5552 or email colette.davis@opw.ie 

Notes to Editors:

Altamont is located near Ballon and is between Tullow and Bunclody.  It is part of the Carlow Garden Trail and is actively promoted by OPW and Carlow Tourism.

Admission: Free

Events during the year include: Snowdrop Week, Rose Week and Carlow Floral Festival.

Further information available on www.heritageireland.ie