New Kilkenny Heritage Strategy process begins

Kilkenny County Council is embarking on what they describe as an 'exciting journey' to develop a new County Heritage Strategy, pledging their commitment to making the five-year strategy (2026-2030) inclusive and reflective of the values and aspirations of the people of Kilkenny.

It’s expected the plan will be finalised by the end of the year following the conclusion of a period of public consultation and authorisation by Kilkenny County Council.

Outlining their plans at local municipal district meetings across the county in February, Heritage Officer Regina Fitzpatrick set out the Heritage Office’s long-term vision which will identify strategic goals across all areas of local heritage.

The strategy, first adopted locally in 2007, was largely action focused. However, the latest plan will have a more strategic view, meaning it will be alligned with local strategies and plans including; the Kilkenny City and County Development Plan, the Local Community and Economic Plan and the Climate Action Plan.

The local authority and the Heritage Office has stated the alteration to the new plan is due to their 'duty to safeguard it for future generations', claiming, 'it is increasingly at risk'.

"This strategy comes at a time of great threat, not only to heritage but to the planet," the strategy document read.

"The deepening climate crisis and global biodiversity collapse are the critical context of this strategy, and will drive much of the work of the Heritage Office in the coming months," it added.

What the plan will encompass will be determined by the public who are now being invited to submit their submissions.

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