Kildare arts centre refurb takes a big step forward

THE spectre of the closure of the iconic Newbridge venue the Riverbank Arts Centre was raised at the October meeting of the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District meeting, but it was quickly put to bed when it was confirmed that the venue’s refurbishment plan was already at the first steps of the planning process.

Cllr Chris Pender had asked that the council provide an update on the current status and timeline for the redevelopment of the Riverbank Arts Centre.

“There are fears for the closure of the Riverbank if it doesn’t get a refurbishment,” said cllr Pender.

The building was opened by the then minister for finance Charlie McCreevy 24 years ago, but has had no major overhaul since.

“I think it should be renovated along with the library, which is funded, for economies of scale,” said cllr Pender.

Cathaoirleach cllr Peggy O’Dwyer offered her support for the motion, saying: “I’ve seen plans for the Riverbank five years ago, and there’s still no progress.” Eoghan Ryan, director of services at the council, confirmed: “The Riverbank Design Team are currently working on a preliminary design and the submission for part 8 planning (‘part 8’ is the process where a local authority applies to itself for planning permission). However, a funding stream has yet to be identified to progress the redevelopment plans to the detailed design and construction phase,” he cautioned.

Caroline Williams from the Riverbank said she couldn’t comment on that right now but was able to say: “Rest assured – plans are in progress”.

“It would be a big, massive development for Newbridge, and I would like members to have a voice,” said cllr Pender.

“I know once it goes to part 8 councillors can submit amendments, then it’s all up in the air, but I accept the legislation to limit councillors from the part 8 process,” he concluded.