Mr Brian Hayes, TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) was in County Laois to view new developments at Emo Court and Heywood Gardens, two of the OPW's premier historic properties.

The Minister inspected the construction works underway on the new circular lake and woodland walkway in Emo Court and also viewed works in progress on the new bus and car park at Heywood Gardens.

Minister Hayes said: "I'm very pleased with progress to date on the Emo Court walkway. The plan is ambitious and when finished, will enable visitors to take in the fantastic views of the 18th century, James Gandon designed, parkland and house. We in OPW are proud to manage Emo on behalf of the State and have made considerable improvements in the recent past, including a new tearoom and the permanent exhibition of the Fr. Browne photographs."

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Speaking at Heywood Gardens later that day Minister Hayes said: "It is always a pleasure to visit Heywood Gardens at any time of year, so I’m particularly pleased to see progress on the new bus and car parking facilities here today. These new amenities will greatly enhance the visitor’s experience by guiding them through the 18th century romantic landscape, replete with man-made lakes, woodland pathways and follies, before leading to the famous Edwin Lutyens designed gardens."

(CD)