Public's input wanted on Naas Canal Quarter Plan

THE redevelopment of the Canal Quarter in Naas got a step closer this week, after Kildare County Council announced the launch of a public consultation on its masterplan for the location.

This consultation is a critical step in shaping the future of the area and follows on from earlier public engagement conducted in August 2024.

The council is now seeking further input from the community to refine the masterplan.

The goal is to transform the underused Canal Quarter into a vibrant, lively, and mixed-use place the entire community and the public is invited to a drop-in event at Naas Library on Wednesday, 26 February, between 2pm and 8pm.

“This is an exciting time for Naas,” said Sonya Kavanagh, chief executive, Kildare County Council.

“With masterplans for the Naas North-West Quadrant, the Town Centre, and now the Canal Quarter, we have a unique opportunity to create vibrant, inclusive spaces that reflect the aspirations of our community.

“We want to hear your ideas to help refine and shape the vision for the Canal Quarter”.

The Naas Canal Quarter is envisioned as a vibrant hub, combining community, heritage, and tourism.

With the Canal Harbour at its core, the project seeks to create a lively destination where residents and visitors can gather, enjoy activities and experience the charm of canal life, including the return of canal boats.

The plan centres on three key parts - The Harbour Area, a new ecological park on the island site, offering natural habitats, a children’s play area, and a proposed pedestrian and cycle bridge connecting it to the harbour, and the upgrade of Abbey.

The proposals include a mix of short-term, low-cost initiatives, such as temporary uses for vacant sites and smaller scale public realm enhancements, as well as long-term projects like redeveloping sites and infrastructure improvements.

Feedback will be reviewed by Kildare County Council to refine the masterplan, and the consultation closes at 5pm on Friday 7 March.

Visit https://naas.consultation.ai/ to share your views online or attend the drop-in event at Naas Library.