Waterford locals at odds with British billionaire over Ballynatray estate

Residents in West Waterford are concerned about proposed changes to accessing public pathways and historic sites in Ballynatray Estate. 

Locals are concerned about being denied access to Molana Abbey and Templemichael, both historical sites within the 850-acre estate. 

The estate is under the ownership of British billionaire James Dyson. The staunch Brexit supporter bought the West Waterford estate for €30 million in 2024. 

According to a report by Christy Parker in the Irish Examiner, visitors to the historic sites are facing new obstacles.

While access to the sites are still open, there is a fear that the access is being reduced. Changes have been proposed for Templemichael carpark, located 50 metres from a historic graveyard. The graveyard is the final resting place for the relatives and ancestors of the local communities. Some scholars believe that the gravesites date all the way back to the 12th Century when the Templars arrived in the Déise. 

The Templemichael church was built in 1823. 

A barrier was installed in the church carpark earlier this year, ostensibly to counter 'anti-social behaviour'. However, the barrier is said to close at 4pm instead of 7pm, as was originally proposed. The earlier closing is causing locals to park on roads and in front of properties.  

Waterford City and County Council have begun negotiations with Mr Dyson and 'legal advisors' over the issue.