Kilkea Castle planning new spa, pool and gym

Kilkea Castle near Castledermot is making plans to convert its former nightclub and bar area into a leisure complex.

Facilities being planned include a swimming pool, a spa area, changing rooms and a gym.

A planning application has been lodged with Kildare Co Council.

Two single-storey extensions are part of the proposed development.

Kilkea Castle was built in 1180 by Hugh deLacey and was in the Fitzgerald Family (the earl of Kildare) for over 700 years.

The resort closed in 2010 and was purchased by US businessman Jay Cashman who has devoted the last number of years to restoring the Castle and the surrounding estate into a premium resort.