Works begin at derelict Kilkenny site after health and safety worries

Works have begun on the derelict site at Newpark Close on the outskirts of Kilkenny City following a lengthy period of disquiet in the area.

In a motion raised at a previous sitting of the Kilkenny City Municipal District, Cllr McGuinness described the site as 'a major health and safety issue'.

Over a decade ago, Kilkenny Live reported on the removal of a number of derelict buildings at Newpark Close following a grant of €350,000. The scheme saw replacement of eight vacant houses at Newpark Close with a newly created recreational/green space.

"Newpark Close in my opinion was the forgotten estate but for the committed residents who continued to fight for investment," local independent Cllr Eugene McGuinness said online.

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"I was glad to play my part in this ongoing project. The area now being cleared will be grassed and left as an open area until the Council and residents decide on the final design for this area," he continued.

"I will continue to engage with residents and the council to push for further improvements which I believe are required throughout the estate.

"I thank the residents and the council for their continued engagement," Cllr McGuinness concluded.

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