BREAKING: Plans for 4,000 homes and 11,000 population rise in one Kildare town
But there are concerns about public transport, school places, medical services and amenities
Kildare County Council is proposing to alter its own development plan to allow for a huge growth in the number of homes and a corresponding population increase.
The plan is to develop the so-called Northwest Quadrant - a huge 742 acre landbank in the Millennium Park area.
The Northwest Quadrant refers to an area of approximately 300 hectares extending from the Grand Canal harbour area in the town to the M7 motorway, with the canal on its eastern edge and the New Caragh Road bordering the west, according to KCC.
KCC says the location “has assets that make it ideal for a large urban extension, including the Grand Canal, proximity to Naas town centre, the M7 and Sallins & Naas Railway Station. “
A framework masterplan provides for: 4,000 new homes to accommodate 11,000 people; space for up to 5,000 new jobs.
KCC also say there will be “enabling infrastructure to unlock the development potential of the site, including streets, bridges, and drainage.“
A strong emphasis is placed on creating a well-served and sustainable community, providing parks and playgrounds, sports grounds and facilities, schools, creches, community and health facilities, along with neighbourhood and local centres to provide focal points and services for residents.
However local politicians have expressed concern about an existing shortage of school places as well as a lack of amenities/sports facilities, insufficient medical services and inadequate public transport provision.
KCC says the NQ is the largest development site in County Kildare and one of the largest in Ireland.
“Its development will provide a significant boost to the critical mass of Naas, while offering future residents a high quality of life and the opportunity for a low-carbon lifestyle.”
It also says the NQ is one of four key urban extensions on which KCC is seeking to accelerate housing delivery. The other locations are Maynooth (west), Confey (Leixlip), and Celbridge (south).
“Delivery of the NQ project is expected to substantially commence in 2028.”
The framework masterplan will complement the proposed regeneration of the Naas canal quarter, “for which Kildare County Council is currently preparing a separate masterplan. “
The Proposed Variation, Framework Masterplan and supporting documents are available to view on Kildare County Council’s consultation portal at: https://consult.kildarecoco.ie/
Written submissions may also be made on the portal until Friday July 3 (noon).