The owners of Ballynatray Estate have disputed claims that access to historic sites on the West Waterford property has been restricted.

Concerns had been raised over access to Templemichael Castle and Graveyard and Molana Abbey, after local residents contacted Waterford Cllr. Donnchadh Mulcahy about changes in the area.

The estate, which stretches along the River Blackwater near the Cork-Waterford border, was purchased by billionaire businessman James Dyson in 2024.

In a statement to WLR, a Dyson spokesperson said there are no restrictions preventing people from visiting graves at Templemichael.

‘There are no restrictions on access to the Templemichael graves at any time – though there is no ‘right of way’. The private car park is open during the daytime, but not at night. Access to Molana Abbey has not changed.’

The estate has told WLR it disputes suggestions that access has changed.

It says the private car park remains available during the daytime, while its closure at night was introduced as a security measure in response to anti-social behaviour.

It also maintains that it is misleading to suggest people cannot visit graves at Templemichael, saying they can be accessed at any time.

Ballynatray Estate also highlighted the employment it provides to local people as part of the estate team.

The response follows concerns raised by Knockanore resident Nicholas Parker, who spoke to Damien Tiernan on WLR’s Déise Today.

The 75-year-old said he had been able to access the area around the Blackwater unhindered since childhood, but claimed barriers introduced more recently had affected parking and made visiting the graveyard and riverbank more difficult.

Mr. Parker said people still visit Templemichael, including families whose ancestors are buried there, and highlighted the historical significance of the site.

He acknowledged that Templemichael graveyard and the banks of the river are located on the Ballynatray Estate and said he was not disputing the estate’s ownership of the land.

However, he said his concern centred on barriers and parking arrangements which, in his view, discourage people from visiting.

Mr. Parker said he believes a reasonable compromise could ultimately provide a way of resolving the issue.

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

The local authority says it is engaging with the landowner and has sought legal advice.

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