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Residential Vision for Prime Site at Abbey Quarter

June 5, 2025 | By Brian Butler

25th October 2024

A comprehensive assessment is set to be conducted to explore the feasibility of developing residential units on the Abbey Quarter site in Kilkenny City. This follows the recent appointment of an architect and quantity surveyor to evaluate the potential for housing in this prime location.

The Abbey Quarter Urban Design Code has identified a target of 30-35% of all development to be residential, a goal strongly supported by national policy and public engagement. While no specific targets have been set for the number of new homes or their typologies, the masterplan envisions a development that could result in 50,000 to 75,000 sqm of total space, potentially accommodating 150 to 250 new homes.

Sweeney’s Orchard, already earmarked as a housing delivery site, has the capacity for 50-75 units according to the Kilkenny County Council Housing Delivery Action Plan 2022-2026. These homes represent the minimum potential for this central city site, aiming to enhance urban living in Kilkenny.

The assessment will provide a detailed evaluation of how best to achieve these residential targets, contributing to the ongoing regeneration of the Abbey Quarter and supporting the vision of a vibrant, liveable city centre.