Balancing Progress with Protection: Planning & the Preservation of Galway’s Archaeological Heritage – Aug 22, 5-6PM

Balancing Progress with Protection: Planning & the Preservation of Galway’s Archaeological Heritage

John Olney
Saturday 22 August 2026 | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Mick Lally Theatre, Druid Lane, Galway

As Galway continues to grow and develop, how do we ensure that the archaeological remains of its past are protected for future generations?

In this fascinating presentation, archaeologist John Olney of the National Monuments Service explores the relationship between modern development, planning, and archaeological conservation. Drawing on professional experience from across Ireland, John will explain how archaeological sites are identified, investigated, recorded, and protected, while highlighting the important role archaeology plays within the planning process.

The talk will examine some of the challenges involved in balancing economic development with heritage conservation and will explore examples from Galway that demonstrate why archaeological remains are such an important part of our understanding of the city’s history and identity.

Ideal for anyone interested in archaeology, planning, local history, or heritage conservation, this presentation offers an insight into the work undertaken to ensure that Ireland’s archaeological heritage survives for future generations.

This talk forms part of Galway Civic Trust: A Celebration of Heritage 2026, a full-day programme presented during National Heritage Week 2026. Held across the Mick Lally Theatre, the Hall of the Red Earl, and the Peadar O’Dowd Gallery, the day features talks, exhibitions, living history displays, storytelling, film screenings, and an evening concert, celebrating Galway’s heritage while reflecting this year’s Heritage Week theme, “Heritage at Risk.”