Kilkenny County Council signs contract for new plan to regenerate Carnegie Library building
The project, previously awarded €3.98 million under the THRIVE programme, will transform Carnegie Library into a local studies cultural hub
Kilkenny County Council has signed a contract forthe regeneration of the Carnegie Library and surrounding public realm.
The council penned the agreement with MCORM, who will lead a multi-disciplinary team in the detailed design of the refurbishment and redevelopment of the significant heritage project, along with the delivery of the works on site.
The project, which was previously awarded €3.98 million under the THRIVE programme, will transform Carnegie Library into a local studies cultural hub to become The Stories of Kilkenny – Welcome to Your Past, Present & Future. The public realm area will be enhanced, incorporating biodiversity and nature-based measures to enrich the overall appearance. The project will ensure the building serves as a welcoming and inclusive space for all in line with the values and principles of New European Bauhaus.
The refurbishment of the Carnegie Library is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021–27.
“The Carnegie Library is a jewel in the crown of the built heritage of Kilkenny city, with a long history as a facility for the public of Kilkenny in the area of arts and culture. Today marks a major step forward in this project which will protect the building and bring in new life and activity,” said Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh.
Mayor of Kilkenny Andrew McGuinness said: “The redevelopment of Carnegie Library reflects a commitment to protecting our built heritage while supporting the sustainable regeneration of our town centres through THRIVE. The Southern Regional Assembly is supporting Kilkenny County Council in the delivery of a project that will benefit the people of Kilkenny for generations to come.”
Cllr John Coonan said the regeneration of the Carnegie Library is something the people of Kilkenny have hoped for over many years. “Its restoration will create a welcoming and vibrant space and I am delighted to see this transformative project now moving ahead,” he said.
Further detail is awaited on how the building will operate in future, and if it is - as was previously mooted - to be a home for the Kilkenny Archives.