2020:516 - KILKENNY: Bridge House, 88-89 John Street Lower, Kilkenny

Archaeological monitoring of exploratory works was carried out by Shanarc Archaeology Ltd. in association with the proposed alteration of a recorded monument, Bridge House (KK019-026067), for use as part of the River Court Hotel, John Street Lower, Kilkenny.

Known to contain medieval fabric, Bridge House (KK019-026067), at Nos. 88–89 John Street Lower, is located in the Zone of Notification for the historic town. It is included in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH)—reference 12000151 (No. 89) and 12000152 (No. 88), attributed with a significance rating of National, and is listed as a protected structure – RPS B108—in the Local Authority’s effective Development Plan.

Exploratory works were carried out in response to a Request for Further Information issued by Kilkenny County Council in respect of Planning Ref. 20/242, and under archaeological excavation licence no. 20E0479.

Exploratory works comprised removal of plaster in a number of areas to the walls of Bridge House, 88–89 John Street Lower, Kilkenny; this was carried out under archaeological supervision. The removal of plaster allowed for the identification of a number of architectural features associated with the historic house; this information was used to develope a mitigation strategy for the proposed development.