Planning chiefs delay decision on massive Kilkenny city regeneration project

An Bord Pleanála has pushed back on making a decision about one of the largest developments ever planned for Kilkenny city.

The planning authority has given the public more time to have their say on a development that could transform the city-centre.

Earlier this summer, Kilkenny County Council lodged plans with An Bord Pléanala for development works within the Abbey Quarter (formerly Smithwick’s Brewery site), which include a new urban park, a new street and a new outdoor event space.

An Bord Pleanála recently informed Kilkenny County Council it is to extend the public consultation period for Abbey Quarter Urban Park and Street until the end of October, an extension of a month. No explanation has been provided for the reason behind the period of extension.

The development will cover an area of approximately 1.44ha within the Abbey Quarter development and will include an Urban Park, an Urban Street and provide space to accommodate outdoor events.

The Urban Park will be centred around the upstanding remains of St Francis Abbey and will consist of a variety of grassed areas, trees, paved surfaces, water feature and meeting points and will provide a new amenity area for the city.

The Park has been specifically designed to be sympathetic to historical features in the area, including St Francis Abbey, the City Walls incorporating Evan’s Turret and St Francis Well. The development will also link the Abbey Quarter to Bateman Quay and St. Francis Bridge, the new street created will be pedestrian and cycle friendly.

As the Abbey Quarter is part of a Strategic Infrastructure Development, the application can go straight to An Bord Pléanála to fast track the process.

Submissions or observations regarding the plans must be made in writing and received by An Bord Pleanála by October 30.