'Transformative': Praise heaped on blueprint for this Kildare town's future

A local representative has expressed optimism towards a Kildare County Council (KCC) plan which sets out the future of one County Kildare town.

KCC initially published the Draft Newbridge Settlement Plan back in September of last year, and invited members of the public to have their say on the plan.

And now, Fianna Fáil councillor Rob Power has welcomed the formal adoption of the Newbridge Settlement Plan, following a recent full KCC special meeting. 

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As explained by Cllr Power, the new Settlement Plan replaces the Newbridge Local Area Plan 2013 to 2019.

"It also sets out a comprehensive policy framework to guide the sustainable development of housing, employment, transportation, retail and social infrastructure across the town," he added.

'SETS THE FOUNDATION'

Speaking at the special meeting, Cllr Power described the plan as "a great blueprint" and emphasised that its adoption marks the "beginning rather than the end" of a process.

He elaborated: "This plan sets the foundation for the work that now needs to happen — with the private sector, with the government, and with other bodies — to deliver on these objectives for the people of Newbridge."

Furthermore, Alan Dunney, KCC's director of planning, asserted that KCC would play its full part in bringing the plan to life.

Mr. Dunney also said that KCC "would not be found wanting" in terms of working with all relevant parties to deliver on the plan.

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KEY FEATURES

In addition, Cllr Power outlined the key features of the new plan.

According to Cllr Power, features of the newly adopted Newbridge Settlement Plan include:

• Housing and Growth — "The plan provides for approximately 2,917 new residents and over 1,000 new homes, with a strong emphasis on compact, brownfield and infill development to prevent sprawl and protect surrounding green spaces, including The Curragh Plains."
• Transport and Connectivity — "The plan includes provision for a second bridge over the River Liffey and the Newbridge Southern Ring Road, with construction anticipated to begin in late 2026 or early 2027, pending funding approval from the Department of Transport. A new town bus service and improved cycling and walking infrastructure are also included."
• Schools and Education — "Zoning has been secured for two new schools: a 1,000-pupil secondary school and a 23-class primary school, responding directly to the needs of Newbridge's growing population."
• Social and Sports Infrastructure — "The plan includes proposals for a multi-purpose sports hub and sets a clear objective to deliver a public swimming pool for Newbridge — a facility the town has long needed and which I have consistently championed. Alongside these, the plan provides for improved GP and healthcare facilities, youth services, and expanded community spaces."
• Town Centre Renewal — "The Safer Newbridge Project will address anti-social behaviour on Eyre Street, which is also earmarked for major redevelopment. The plan supports mixed-use regeneration and new public spaces to revitalise the heart of the town."
• Active Travel and Climate Resilience — "A network of safe cycling routes, active travel bridges and greenways — including connections to The Curragh — will support more sustainable transport and build Newbridge's resilience to climate change."
• Natural and Cultural Heritage — "The plan protects the River Liffey, the Curragh Plains and Pollardstown Fen, while harnessing Newbridge's rich military and civic heritage."

Cllr Power further said: "Newbridge is a town that punches above its weight in terms of commerce and community spirit.

"This plan gives us the tools to match that spirit with the infrastructure and services our people deserve."

"The commitment shown by KCC [at the meeting] gives me great confidence that we are ready to move from plan to action," he concluded.

Fianna Fáil Cllr Rob Power. File photograph

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Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.