AN HISTORIC graveyard is set to be protected as part of plans for a new housing development in Lisnarick. 

Some 17 new houses are being planned on the edge of the Co. Fermanagh village, which borders an ancient graveyard with headstones dating back to the 17th Century. 

Planning documents show that the "historic graveyard" has been a major consideration in the planning of the development.

These considerations were outlined in a statement about the "protection of the existing adjoining graveyard and its surroundings" by GI Architects, which is working on behalf applicant, Speer Property Ltd.

"The site has been laid out with enhanced private amenity spaces to dwellings 3-7 adjoining the existing graveyard wall, to allow provision of a significant area adjoining the graveyard wall," GI Architects said.

"There will be no construction works or significant excavations, in order to retain the existing topography in this area and protect the integrity of the graveyard and its surrounding wall. 

"To the northern graveyard boundary, an area of open space will be provided between the road and the existing graveyard wall; the proposed levels in this area will be such that very little alteration is required to the existing topography."

The archaeological impact of the proposed development has also been considered, according to planning documents.

GI Architects said that the aim of the development is to provide a mix of dwelling types and sizes, with dwellings orientated to provide a frontage addressing Liscreevin Road.

The architects added that the "greenfield site" in Lisnarick was selected because of the availability of existing services infrastructure including electricity, water and transport access.