Special Areas of Conservation (S.A.C.)

A rich diversity of flora, fauna and wildlife habitats make up the biodiversity of County Laois.  Some sites have been designated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government as Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) or Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) as a result of their international and national wildlife importance. Development in these areas will be subject to special controls.

More information on protected sites is available from the Heritage section of the website.

Special Areas of Development Control

There are areas in need of special protection due to their sensitive character and these areas have been identified as Special Areas of Development Control. These areas warrant special consideration due to their visual amenity. The following areas are Special Areas of Development Control:

Slieve Blooms

Rock of Dunamaise

 Killeshin Plateau

Aharney/Cullahill Mountain

The Heath

The Windy Gap/Luggacurren