Assessment of the Implications and Resource Requirements of Emerging UNESCO World Heritage Site Bids in Armagh, Northern Ireland

The Royal Sites of Ireland and the Historical Astronomical Observatories of Ireland incorporating Navan Fort and Armagh Observatory and Planetarium respectively, form part of two transnational, serial nominations for UNESCO World Heritage Status. Both components are located in or near Armagh City, Northern Ireland. The remaining five components of the Royal Sites series are located in Counties Meath, Westmeath, Roscommon, Kildare and Tipperary. The remaining two components of the Historical Astronomical Observatories are located at Dunsink, Fingal (North County Dublin) and in Birr, County Offaly. Both nomination groups have been included on the most recent Tentative List for Ireland. The pathway to World Heritage inscription consists of four stages: 1. Review and Preparation of the Tentative List 2. Preparation of the Preliminary Assessment and Nomination Dossier 3. Evaluation 4. Decision by the World Heritage Committee