New Kilkenny development set to be a 'game-changer' for the city

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne has described new plans for the Abbey Quarter in Kilkenny as a 'gamechanger' following confirmation that a contract has been signed to complete the Urban Street and Park in the city.

The contract was signed today (Tuesday) at County Hall in Kilkenny in the presence of the Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Michael McCarthy and has been awarded to David Walsh Civil Engineering Ltd with Fountainworks Ltd handling a specialist water feature through a novated contract.

 "The Government’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund has been a real game-changer for our towns and cities," Minister Browne remarked.

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"The Abbey Quarter in Kilkenny celebrates where medieval meets modern and today’s €12.3 million will help breathe new life into Kilkenny City.

"This is another good example of my Department’s €2 billion URDF fund in action. With over 400 projects now underway, this funding is actively transforming our towns and cities and will enhance our urban spaces for generations to come," he concluded.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Michael McCarthy commented: "Todays contract signing marks a major milestone in the delivery of the vision of the Abbey Quarter into a place for people to live, work, and play.

"It will complement the works already completed in respect of the Brewhouse, Mayfair, and public realm areas surrounding them," Cllr McCarthy concluded.

Mayor of Kilkenny City, Cllr Andrew McGuinness, added: "I am delighted to see this contract commencing on the delivery of a new urban park in Kilkenny City and opening up of areas of our city which heretofore were not available for public access.

"I also welcome the economic benefits that the new Urban Street will provide for our city in opening up further plots on the site for development."