Family at centre of Bohermeen home slated for demolition to be allowed retrieve belongings

The family at the centre of a 20 year battle to save their 6,220 sq ft home, built without planning permission, have been allowed access to the property to retrieve their possessions after a fresh High Court Order demanded the five-bedroom home be demolished within 48 hours.

Dozens of concerned locals gathered at the top of the narrow lane that leads down to the Murray house in Bohermeen this evening after Judge Richard Humphreys in the High Court today (Wednesday 18th March) ordered that the house built by Chris and Rose Murray be immediately cleared of the family's possessions. It's understood that while the family have left the property, their belongings still remain inside.

This followed Monday's High Court Order granting Meath County Council possession of the house.

This evening, an understanding between senior Meath County Council staff and family representatives was reached where belongings will be gathered up overnight with family members allowed in under supervision of Gardai to assess the house in the morning (Thursday) and ensure remaining belongings are removed.

It's understood that Meath County Council returned to the High Court today to seek a second order to expedite the possession and removal of possessions after security staff on site (since Monday morning) were allegedly subjected to harassment and obstruction.

Locals claim family representatives were prevented from retrieving their belongings including medicines and personal items by security.

Meath County Council secured the High Court order from Judge Humphreys today at 2pm who insisted the house be cleared and the demolition commence immediately.

At 7.30pm this evening (Wednesday) with discussions between senior council staff and family liaisons, it was agreed to allow family representatives, without the presence of security contractors, to clear belongings, with Murray family members themselves allowed on site between 9 and 10.30am tomorrow (Thursday) for final removals under the supervision of gardai.

It's understood that only after the family have left the scene that security teams and contractors will move on site to begin demolition works.

More to follow...