New Athy library gets the green light for former Dominican Church

A new library in Athy is being built in the former Dominican Church in the town.

Environment, Community and Local Government Minister Alan Kelly has allocated €1.65m for the project.

The site of the former Dominican Church has also been earmarked for a number of community facilities which the Kildare County Council is in talks with Minister Kelly's department about.

The Council has arranged with the Peter McVerry Trust to use the former Dominican Priory building to provide  accommodation for up to five families.

Mr Pat Doyle, CEO of Peter McVerry Trust, said: “We are delighted to have been able to partner with the Kildare County Council to deliver these units, which will provide five high-quality apartments which are ideal for families in need of social housing.

"The units were unlikely to have been brought into use in the coming years  without the support of Kildare County Council."

Mr. Peter Carey, Chief Executive of Kildare County Council said, “The proposed  project underlines what can be achieved when the Council works in partnership with  specialist service providers. It is intended that building works will commence shortly, and that accommodation will be available after Easter this year."