Concerns have been raised over access to two historic sites at Ballynatray Estate in West Waterford.

Cllr. Donnchadh Mulcahy says residents have contacted him about access to Molana Abbey and Templemichael Castle and Graveyard, as well as restrictions surrounding a car park used by visitors to the sites.

Ballynatray is an approximately 850-acre estate along the River Blackwater, near the Cork-Waterford border.

The estate was purchased by billionaire businessman and inventor James Dyson in 2024 in a deal reported to be worth around €30 million.

Cllr. Mulcahy says access to the sites has traditionally been available through the estate, although access to Molana Abbey had operated on a seasonal basis in more recent years.

He says further restrictions have since been introduced, including barriers affecting access to parking used by people visiting the area.

According to the councillor, this has resulted in some visitors parking elsewhere, with residents raising concerns about access to their homes and the potential impact on emergency vehicles.

Speaking to Damien Tiernan on WLR’s Déise Today, Cllr. Mulcahy said he has brought the concerns to Waterford City and County Council.

‘Look, my job as a county councillor is to represent the people and pass on concerns to Waterford City and County Council,’ he said.

‘I just want a sensible resolution and respect the legal positions of everyone involved.’

Waterford City and County Council has confirmed it is aware of concerns regarding access and traditional rights of way at Ballynatray House.

The authority says it is engaging with the landowner in an effort to reach a resolution and has also sought legal advice.

It says it will continue its engagement but will not comment further while discussions are ongoing.