Kilcullen Market Square development facing challenges

THE NEXT stages for the development of Kilcullen Market Square have not been given a timeline due to planning challenges.

Cllr Chris Pender brought the project into focus during a recent Kildare-Newbridge MD meeting, requesting details on recent developments, timelines, and any challenges affecting its progression.

In response the council stated the project received Part 8 approval several years ago, and that the next stages involve procurement, preparation of tender documents, detailed design, and eventual construction.

In 2023, the estimated cost of the project was reassessed to account for inflation, raising the projected expenditure to €1.4 million, but it is expected that actual tender returns will exceed this estimate.

To support the project's advancement, it has been included in the Capital Programme for 2025-2027, with €1.4 million in development contributions allocated over the three years.

One of the key challenges identified is securing alternative parking solutions. Car parking cannot be removed from the Square until a new parking location is finalised and ready for use. The council has acknowledged this as a priority and will continue to work towards a resolution.