Also, near the east bank of the Clodiagh River stand the ruins of Ballinakill Castle, built in 1680 by Colonel Dunne. Throughout the 18th century, Clonaslee prospered due to its location on an important highway across Laois leading onto Munster. The proximity of Brittas - the seat of the Dunnes - was also influential as the power of this family had by now grown beyond that of a native Irish Chieftain.
Furthermore, situated near the east bank of the Clodiagh River are the ruins of Ballinakill Castle, built by Colonel Dunne in 1680. During this period, Clonaslee experienced growth due to its strategic location on a major highway connecting Laois to Munster. The proximity of Brittas, the seat of the powerful Dunnes family, also had an impact as their influence had surpassed that of a typical Irish leader.