Phase One of Abbey Quarter Officially Opened
16th May 2022
Phase one of the Abbey Quarter urban development in Kilkenny city has been officially opened today, with Minister Darragh O'Brien visiting the site to mark the occasion.
Speaking at the event, Cathaoirleach Fidelis Doherty expressed her delight at the public viewing of what she described as a 'game-changing Phase 1' of the €200 million regeneration project for Kilkenny City. She highlighted the project's significance in enhancing the area for both local residents and visitors.
"Following the decision by Diageo Ireland in 2012 to close the Smithwick’s Brewery, Kilkenny County Council agreed to purchase the 10.9-acre site of the former brewery," Doherty said. "The brewery operated on the site from 1710. The Master Plan for the redevelopment of the former brewery site was approved by Elected Members of Kilkenny County Council in July 2015 following a period of extensive public consultation. The site is being redeveloped in accordance with the Urban Design Code, which will see up to 35% of the development becoming homes, which are much needed."
Doherty emphasised the historical significance of the site, located beside the River Nore with views of the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle and overlooked by St. Canice’s Cathedral along Ireland’s Medieval Mile. "The challenge in developing this site has always been to respect the work of past generations while allowing ourselves the opportunity to meet the needs of future generations," she added.
Phase 1 of the Abbey Quarter development includes the Riverside Garden, Skateboard Park, Horse Barrack Lane, Brewhouse Square, the 19th Century Tea Houses, the Mayfair Building as the new City Library, and the Brewhouse Building for office use. The Riverside Garden and Skateboard Park, which were officially opened in June 2021, have already garnered recognition, winning the Overall National Award in the Urban Land Institute Excellence in Placemaking Awards for 2021.
Looking ahead, Phase 2 of the project will feature the development of a new Urban Street and Park, which will facilitate the construction of new buildings on the site. The Urban Park, measuring approximately 2 acres, will be centred around the remains of St. Francis Abbey and will serve as a vibrant focal point within the Abbey Quarter. The Urban Street, prioritising pedestrians and cyclists, will act as the 'spine' of the development, providing access to the new buildings. This phase is set to commence in late 2022.
An open evening to celebrate the completion of Phase 1 was held on Monday, 16th May, marking a positive day for Kilkenny City and County. The event also welcomed new tenants to the Abbey Quarter, wishing them a long and successful tenure in their new offices.
The Abbey Quarter project is set to significantly enhance Kilkenny City, providing much-needed homes and revitalizing the area for both locals and visitors.