THE BEAUTIFUL Duckett's is flourishing and is one of Carlow County Council's greatest success stories, despite the recession.

Last week, local representatives heard a report on planning and amenities at a monthly meeting in which particular attention was paid to the historical site.

Director of Services, Seamus O'Connor, said that though funding was restricted, Duckett's Grove will continue in its success story. He said that the recent Christmas fair that took place among the heritage gardens and buildings was a success, thanks to the help of Eileen O'Rourke and Carlow Tourism.

He also said that its future lies with the help of the County Carlow Development Project who have leased the premises for a ten year period.

They plan to construct craft workshops, exhibition and market spaces to accommodate on-going markets and for the establishment of craft workshops.

Mr. O'Connor also said that the council are looking at proposals to turn Borris into a heritage town and that research has begun into Borris House and the viaduct. He concluded that the viaduct was an important piece of architecture in the area and that it would make a stuning walkway for visitors to the south of the county.