Kildare Town market revival plans to be explored by council
Photo for illustrative purposes only
KILDARE Council is considering a new approach to revitalising Kildare Town’s market, with contemporary themed and seasonal markets among the options being explored.
The proposal was raised by cllr Suzanne Doyle, who called on the council to invest in re-establishing the market in Kildare Town through a programme of themed markets that would be curated and managed under a business plan designed to achieve self-funding within two years.
In its report to the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District, the council acknowledged the importance of revitalising the existing market as part of efforts to support the economic and social life of the town centre.
It identified Market Square as a particular focus for future development, pointing to its established location, available trading capacity and the recent completion of public realm improvements.
Market Square is currently designated for casual trading, with provision for up to 23 pitches. However, only five are recorded as active.
The council noted that the layout and suitability of the designated pitches will need to be reviewed following the completion of the Kildare Town Market Square Public Realm Project.
A consultation process is now under way with elected members of the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District to gather views on the future direction of casual trading.
Submissions are due by Friday 30 October, although the deadline can be extended on request.
According to the council report, feedback will be used to assess the preferred market format, mix of traders, operating arrangements, infrastructure requirements and opportunities for wider stakeholder involvement.
The council said there was clear merit in developing a refreshed and more contemporary market offering for Kildare Town, while also considering how markets could be supported across the county.
The development of a new food and craft market in Athy is expected to provide practical experience that could inform plans for Kildare Town.
The council said work on the Athy market has involved several service areas, with discussions covering vendor applications, infrastructure, staffing, on-site operations and departmental responsibilities.
Funding for market infrastructure has been secured through the Local Enterprise Office via the Department of Enterprise, while operational and staffing arrangements are still being developed internally.
The experience gained in Athy could help inform decisions on trader recruitment, market branding, curation, infrastructure, management and long-term financial sustainability in Kildare Town.
The Corporate Services Department also has a budget for implementing and operating casual trading.
The council said this funding could be considered for suitable initiatives following consultation with elected members and the development of an agreed proposal.
Potential supports could be used to stimulate market activity and help establish a more sustainable operating model.
While cllr Doyle’s motion calls for a business plan demonstrating self-sufficiency within two years, the council said any commitment to that timeframe would need to be informed by further research and assessment.
Factors to be considered include operating costs, trader participation, customer demand, governance and management requirements.
A further report is expected following the completion of the consultation and consideration of lessons emerging from the Athy initiative.
That update is intended to outline specific options for Kildare Town Market Square, recommended actions, potential funding requirements and an indicative implementation plan.
It may also identify wider measures to support the development of designated markets across the county.
