Library, social housing and public park for historic Dominicans' site in Athy

The Dominican church and grounds in Athy are being converted into a library and social housing.

Environment, Community and Local Government Minister Alan Kelly announced today that his Department and Kildare County Council have jointly funded €1.39m price tag for the property. The Dominican church will be turned into a library and social housing will also be built on the site which will become an amenity park.

Up to €8 million will be invested in developing the property over the next decade.

Kildare County Council said it was delighted with the acquisition of the site and believes it offers excellent size and scope for a multi-purpose community facility. Mr Kelly told the community in Athy, “The proposal to develop this site as an integrated community facility is unique and I believe that the development of a public amenity, social housing units and a public library on such a significant local landmark will add greatly to the quality of the life of those who live in Athy.

"The development of this site also presents opportunities for the expansion of the Heritage Centre and Museum in Emily Square in Athy."

Chief Executive of Kildare County Council Peter Carey said: “Kildare County Council is delighted to secure the site, which is in a strategic central location in the town and offers significant potential for multipurpose community uses”.

Minister Kelly concluded that he and his Department looked forward to working with Kildare County Council on the development of this excellent site and project for the community in Athy, over the coming years.

Local representatives such as Labour TDs Emmett Stagg and Jack Wall welcomed the news.

Veteran local Labour TD Mr Wall has been working closely with local groups and Minister Kelly and his officials in recent months on the plans and he welcomed today's announcement. Mr Wall said: "The departure of the Dominicans closes a long chapter of the order's wonderful work in the community over centuries.

"But it also opens up new opportunities for improved public services in the town thanks to the Dominicans' buildings and land."

ENDS