Plans lodged for retention and addition of motorhome facilities in Kilkenny
Permission sought by applicant in bid to 'strengthen the local economy and encourage greater community engagement with Kilkenny’s cultural and natural assets'
City Lime Works Properties have lodged a planning application for the retention and further provision of motorhome facilities in the heart of Kilkenny City.
Permission is being sought for the retention of 25 motorhome parking spaces, four public lighting standards and a concrete entrance pad at '35, John Street, Kilkenny'.
The site in question is predominantly bordered by the exisiting Wolfe Tone Street car park.
Also being sought is the provision and installation of an automatic parking barrier and safety railings, an EcoGrid permeable access road and a new surface water treatment system.
According to the cover letter submitted with the planning application: "In early 2022 a couple of motorhomes asked for permission to park up for the night.
"Through word of mouth since then the number of motorhomes has steadily increased to approximately 50 visits per week.
"Aires are low-cost motorhome camping areas where basic services such as water, waste disposal, toilets and electricity are provided.
"Throughout the year, there are a considerable number of tourists, both overseas and domestic, who visit the Kilkenny City for the attractions.
"Once on site, all visitors can enjoy what the local area has to offer either by walking or cycling, which will make the development sustainable and not increase traffic movements in the area.
"The development of a motorhome site on John Street presents a valuable opportunity to support rural tourism and enhance local economic activity.
"By providing a low impact, sustainable tourism facility, this project will not only attract visitors but also strengthen the local economy and encourage greater community engagement with Kilkenny’s cultural and natural assets.
"The provision of motorhome facilities will enable a wide range of communities to develop small scale tourism services. Many communities will already have a small level of visitor accommodation available through local B&B’s [sic], and the addition of facilities for motorhomes."
A decision on the planning application is due from the planning authority by February 25, 2026.
This decision timeframe may be extended if the authority requests further information from the applicant in advance of making a decision.