Banbridge / Newry and Mourne Area Plan 2015
Strategic Plan Framework: Environment and Conservation Areas of Significant Archaeological Interest

In accordance with PPS 6 - Planning, Archaeology and the Built Heritage, an Area of Significant Archaeological Interest (ASAI) is designated at the Dorsey as identified in Volume 3 of the Plan.

The Department will use its development control powers to ensure that the setting of the monuments is preserved, and that development does not have a detrimental effect on sites and monuments, or the character, appearance or visual amenity of the surrounding landscape. Accordingly, there will be a general presumption against large-scale developments within the ASAI, such as quarrying or mining operations, waste disposal, industrial units, major tourism schemes and the erection of masts, pylons or wind turbines as it is considered the scale and overall impact of such proposals could be particularly damaging to the distinctive appearance, character and heritage interests of the area. Other development proposals will be determined on their merits having regard to the prevailing regional planning policy and the policies and proposals in the Plan.

In exceptional circumstances where planning permission is granted for development within an ASAI, the Department will require the implementation of appropriate mitigation works.