Kilkenny councillor criticises city housing estate names

A local councillor has requested Kilkenny County Council play a part in the naming of city housing estates, bemoaning the relevance of certain place names.

The comments followed a Kilkenny County Council new County Heritage Strategy, with city councillors receiving a presentation at the most recent sitting of the Kilkenny Municipal District.

The five year strategy sets out a long-term vision by setting out 'strategic goals' across all areas of heritage with the strategy providing the council with an 'opportunity' to 'reasses the priorities of the Heritage Office and strategy within the local authority'.

Cllr Sean Ó hArgain highlighted the heritage and history of the locality's housing estates, arguing the council should have powers to assign housing estate names, bemoaning some poor choices.

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Previous county heritage plans have been largely action focused but it now understood the local authority wants to take a 'more strategic view' which "anchors the role of the Heritage Office and the County Heritage Strategy within core council function functions and builds close links with other multi-disciplinary teams."

Speaking after the presentation, Fine Gael councillor David FitzGerald queried how the measures would be enforced, asking, "does this plan address enforcement or is it just aspiration?"

In response, Heritage Officer, Regina Fitzpatrick confirmed there would be no statutory enforcement.

Meanwhile, all residents, local organisations, and stakeholders in Kilkenny’s heritage are invited to participate in the consultation process by sharing their views on the actions required to safeguard and promote the heritage of Kilkenny.

A discussion paper has been prepared to start the process of consultation and this is available HERE. Alternatively a paper copy can be requested via heritage@kilkennycoco.ie or by calling 056-7794235.