Major breakthrough for landmark regeneration project in Kilkenny city-centre

The regeneration of a major part of Kilkenny’s historic city-centre has received a major boost after planning permission was granted for two key elements of the landmark Abbey Quarter Development.

An Bord Pleanála tghis morning granted planning permission for the development of the Urban Park and new Street in the Abbey Quarter site.

The park will be built over two acres centred around St Francis Abbey and incorporating the City Walls, Evans Turret and St Francis’ well, around the site of the former Smithwicks Brewery.

St Francis Abbey, has long been of interest to the people of Kilkenny and visitors alike, but the National Monument was inaccessible, locked behind the gates of the brewery. The development will now open up access to the Abbey and will provide a significant new amenity area for the city.

The area has been designed to facilitate outdoor events including the temporary installation of a Spiegel Tent, which will accommodate Kilkenny’s many festivals.

The development of the urban street will open up access to the Abbey Quarter and will be a one-way street extending from Bateman Quay to St Francis Bridge and connect the Abbey Quarter to the city centre.

Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Andrew McGuinness said today: “One of the key reasons for the Council purchasing the former Smithwicks Brewery site was to ensure that areas of high quality public realm could be provided within the former Smithwicks Brewery site to integrate the site into the existing city centre.

“With planning in place, we move a step closer to seeing the project delivered and the creation of spaces that locals and visitors alike will enjoy for many years to come.”