Rare plant discovery stalls works at world’s longest operational lighthouse in Wexford

Sarah Slater

Expansion plans at the world’s longest operational lighthouse have been cut back due to the discovery of a rare plant.

Development plans, which include an interpretive design and experience, at Hook Head Lighthouse in Co Wexford, first mooted in 2023, are on hold due to the discovery of the plant on cliff-tops close to the 800-year-old operational building.

The discovered plant is classed as an "Annex 1 habitat" under European law and is viewed as an endangered species which is given the highest protection.

Wexford County Council has appointed environmental consultants to survey the area and development has been put on hold for around six months.

The Independent reports that while the project has been delayed by six months, they remain optimistic it will proceed as scheduled.

The Hook Head area is of special importance because of certain vegetated sea cliffs, fossils, sea-life and bird species and visitor numbers are managed to discourage them from entering the protected areas.

Hook Head management has said that they are “committed to environmental conservation and education”.

Built in the 13th century by William Marshal, the first Earl of Pembroke, the medieval building features four-meter thick walls and still uses its original structure. It was fully automated in 1996.

It is also one of twelve lighthouses which make up Great Lighthouses of Ireland, a new all-island tourism initiative.

Council officials have said that environmental experts are due to visit the site next Monday and Tuesday to examine the protected habitat and analyse the next steps for the development plans.

The council is optimistic that the development plans will get the go ahead in the coming weeks.