Major redevelopment planned for Riverbank Arts Centre

KILDARE County Council has unveiled plans for a major redevelopment of Riverbank Arts Centre in Newbridge, including the partial demolition of existing buildings and the construction of a new two-storey arts centre.

The proposal would provide a larger, more accessible auditorium, new gallery, workshop and education spaces, dedicated children’s facilities, a café and office accommodation, alongside public realm and landscaping improvements.

The project is currently at Part 8 consultation stage, with submissions invited until 5pm on September 22.

The project is designed to meet Nearly Zero Building standards.

5 submissions have raised observations so far, with two supportive, one broadly supportive but seeking changes, one neutral and one objecting to the proposal.

Residents of nearby Liffey Terrace have objected to the scheme, citing concerns about parking, loss of light and visual impact of the development.

Submissions welcomed improved accessibility and expanded cultural facilities, however concerns have also been raised about the proposed auditorium capacity, as well as heritage and architectural considerations.

Cllr Chris Pender has welcomed the opening of the public consultation and urged the public to examine the plans and make submissions.

He said that there is much to welcome in the proposal, including improved accessibility, expanded gallery and workshop space, enhanced facilities for children and education programmes, and upgrades to the auditorium.

He said that he supports the ambition to create a more accessible and fit-for-purpose arts centre but wants to examine the plans in detail and hear from Riverbank users before reaching a final view. He added that a strong public participation and a credible funding plan will be essential.

The Social Democrats councillor said:

“I want to hear from patrons, performers, artists, parents, schools, disability advocates, nearby businesses and community groups. People should look at how the building will work in practice, including access, internal spaces, the auditorium, the relationship with Main Street, sustainability and how services will operate during any future construction period.

“Submissions become part of the formal Part 8 process and will inform the report that comes before elected members. This is the point at which concerns, suggested changes and support for particular parts of the plan need to be placed on the public record.

“Part 8 is still only the beginning. It deals with the local authority planning process and does not provide the full funding needed to deliver the redevelopment. Kildare County Council’s Capital Programme 2026 to 2028 estimates the project at €14 million. It lists €1 million in grant funding and €1.8 million from Revenue and Local Property Tax, while €11.2 million remains under funding to be identified.” 

More information:

Plans and consultation details are available on the council’s online consultation portal. Submissions can be made there, by email to spprpart8@kildarecoco.ie, or in writing to the Senior Executive Officer, Strategic Projects and Public Realm Team, Housing and Regeneration Department, Level 5, Kildare County Council, Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas, Co. Kildare, W91 X77F.

Submissions should be headed: Part 8 Proposed Redevelopment of the Riverbank Arts Centre P82026.09

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme