Kildare County Council releases updates on library and arts centre

Councillors representing the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District (MD) were given an update by Kildare County Council's (KCC) Strategic Projects and Public Realm team.

At this meeting, which was held on Wednesday, September 17 last, the councillors heard an update which related to Newbridge Library and Riverbank Arts Centre projects.

Regarding the Library, the KCC rep said that the project is "progressing very well".

They added that construction drawings and tenders are ready.

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As for the Riverbank, the KCC rep said that the council hopes to secure funding for it "once it becomes available".

When the floor was opened to the councillors, Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender admitted that he "would be cautious" of how the works on the Library could potentially impact the Riverbank.

Fine Gael Cllr Tracey O'Dwyer also enquired about the placement of Newbridge Library's books during this time, to which the rep asserted that the books would be moved to a safe location during the works.

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ADDITIONAL COMMENT

Following the MD meeting, Cllr Pender expanded on his views when asked to do so by the Leinster Leader.

He said: "My concern is to safeguard Riverbank’s programme and audiences while Library works are under way.

"Major works beside a live arts venue can affect access, parking, noise levels, services, signage and the general visitor experience.

"I asked that KCC plan the Library works in a way that avoids or minimises disruption to Riverbank, and that KCC work directly with Riverbank’s management and the Arts Service on: phasing and scheduling to protect key events and peak periods; practical mitigations such as wayfinding, safe pedestrian routes and acoustic barriers; identifying temporary off site space where needed so Riverbank can continue to deliver its programme; clear public communications so audiences know how to access the venue during works; and exploring short term supports if unavoidable disruption impacts income."

Cllr Pender concluded: "The aim here is simple — [to] progress the Library and protect arts and culture in Newbridge at the same time."

Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender. File photograph

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