COLUMN: Is it time for us in Kilkenny to bury the hatchet with Waterford?

A lot of water has passed under the River Suir Bridge since tensions peaked in 2017 around the county boundary dispute between Kilkenny and Waterford.

While the two counties have been jostling like adolescent brothers for a long time now, maybe just maybe we are starting to see the tide turning.

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Communication and hearing the other side’s views on matters of common concern has been central to ensuring the potential of planned infrastructure in the region is realised.

From my experience of attending Piltown Municipal District meetings in Ferrybank in recent years, I’ve personally seen how this collaboration is driving better results.

Kilkenny County Council and Waterford City and County Council have been working collaboratively in recent years on a number of projects that will benefit the citizens of both counties such as the South-East Greenway and North Quays Project.

That renewed level of cooperation will also play a huge role in developing an upcoming comprehensive new local area plan for Ferrybank and Belview and has also, thanks to the drive of South Kilkenny councillors, informed the Waterford Metropolitan Area Strategic Plan.

Perhaps it is fitting timing that the former Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Economic Development and Planning at Waterford City and County Council, Lar Power, is the current Chief Executive of Kilkenny County Council.

Perhaps it is even more fitting that Sean McKeown, Director of Services and former acting Chief Executive of Kilkenny County Council, will assume the role of Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council in a matter of weeks.

One hopes that both Chief Executives will undoubtedly endeavour to build on this renewed collaboration between both counties, using the experience they’ve both garnered from being on the other side of the border.

The signs are bright. Just think of Belview Port, as a shining example.

Not only has Belview Port established itself as a huge economic driver for both counties, but its impact continues to grow.

It was recently confirmed that the port was rapidly becoming a hub for the importation of wind turbine infrastructure into Ireland, an ever-growing industry.

It also serves as a docking point for cruise ships for some of the world’s biggest cruise lines, bringing thousands of seasonal tourists to both Kilkenny and Waterford.

On a regional South-East level, Cabinet approval that the Rosslare-Waterford railway line will be put forward for inclusion within the EU’s TEN-T rail network must be welcome news for both counties.

This recommendation formed part of the All-Island Strategic Review, which was published in July 2023.

A strong partnership between Kilkenny and Waterford will also be vital to driving a strong South-East region that is growing ever more connected.

I’m not saying we should both withdraw our claims to the rock over the train station, our claims over who really runs Ferrybank, nor am I calling for Waterford people to shout for Ballyhale over Ballygunner.

It’s just nice to see two bickering brothers finally starting to get along, and long may that continue. 

No more attempts at land grabs though, please!

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