Plans lodged for new centre of excellence for ceramics in Kilkenny

Design & Crafts Council Ireland have lodged plans to develop the former Bank of Ireland building on Market Street in Thomastown into a centre of excellence for ceramics.

The proposed works consist of conservation and restoration works to the original historic bank building to include: the refurbishment of existing windows and doors; the refurbishment of existing roof finishes; the refurbishment of historic ceilings; refurbishment works to the existing façade including re-painting works; and the provision of a new ground floor structure and finishes.

Minor internal alterations to existing walls and doors are also proposed to accommodate the proposed new use.

Alterations to the existing single-storey flat roof extension to the rear and side of the building are proposed to include: the provision of a new pitched roof in part; internal alterations to accommodate the proposed new use; alterations to the Marsh’s Street elevation and the rear elevation; and the provision of new high-performance glazing and doors.

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Externally it is proposed to remove two single-storey external shed structures and replace with a new single-storey, pitched roof structure for the storage, preparation, and processing of materials, accessed via a covered walkway from the building and the existing vehicular entrance from Marsh’s Street.

A new pedestrian entrance and path is proposed from the rear public carpark to the building.

A decision is due from Kilkenny County Council by November 11, 2024.

The former Sessions House in Thomastown is currently being used by Design & Crafts Council Ireland as a state-of-the-art jewellery and goldsmithing school.

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