Development of large family homes planned on site of historic Kilkenny building

A development of large family homes is planned for the grounds of a late 17th century mansion on the outskirts of Kilkenny.

The development at Kilcreene Lodge in the west of the city would see nine homes built on an area of more than two-heactares within the curtilage of the protected structure.

The building on that site was originally built in 1675 during the reign of Charles II. After that it become a home for the Smithwicks family from the early 19th century.

In 2018 the applicant, Christine Byrne, was granted planning by Kilkenny County Council for nine serviced sites which could be developed into individual homes.

Under the new application Ms Byrne is seeking to develop the sites herself.

The plans would involve the construction of two five-bedroom, two-storey homes and seven four-bedroom, two-storey houses, along with 23 car parking spaces and all other “associated site” development.

The council is expected to rule on the application by the start of June.