Local Notes: Shades salon is best in Waterford and Ferrybank Shopping Centre latest
Waterford City and County Council expressed concerns that the scale and retail offer proposed for the Ferrybank Shopping Centre could impact Waterford city centre by diverting footfall.
Ferrybank Library is delighted to host a special talk titled “Ponds for Wildlife” with Aoife O’Rourke on Wednesday, October 15, at 6:30pm. This promises to be an engaging and informative evening, exploring how garden and community ponds can become thriving habitats for a variety of wildlife. Whether you are a keen gardener, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious about ways to support biodiversity in your own back garden, this talk will offer plenty of practical tips and inspiration. Booking is essential. To reserve your place, please call 051 897200 or email ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie. Everyone is welcome, and we look forward to seeing you there!
There was cause for celebration in Ferrybank recently, as Shades Hair Salon took home a coveted award at the Waterford Best Awards 2025. The salon was honoured in the Best Hair Salon category — a well-deserved recognition of its commitment to excellence in hairdressing, client service, and innovation. Located at 53 Fountain Street, Ferrybank, Shades Hair Studio has been serving the community for over 18 years, earning a loyal clientele and a reputation for top-notch styling, colouring, bridal services, and hair extensions. The award underscores the dedication of owner Amy Kelly and her team in maintaining high standards and continuously evolving to meet client needs. This win not only celebrates the hard work of the salon team but also shines a spotlight on the local beauty and hair industry in Waterford. Congratulations to Shades Hair Salon on this well-earned accolade, and here’s to many more years of success!
Passengers on Keneally Bus Service (operated by JJ Kavanagh) should note that from Tuesday, October 14, 2025, the service will no longer accept cash payments for fares. Travellers will need to pay using a bank card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, a TFI Leap Card, or the TFI Go App. This move is designed to make journeys faster, safer, and more convenient by reducing the need for cash handling on board. Passengers are encouraged to prepare for this change in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
On Wednesday, October 8, we’ll have Chair Yoga at 11.30 am in St. Mary’s Hall, Slieverue, followed by Bingo at 12.50 pm. We are always delighted to welcome new members, both male and female. The hall is conveniently located on the bus route at suitable times, making it easy to join us.
Waterford City & County Council (WCCC) expressed concerns that the scale and retail offer proposed for the Ferrybank Shopping Centre could impact Waterford city centre by diverting footfall. WCCC submitted an appeal to An Bord Pleanála against Kilkenny County Council’s decision to grant planning permission. This appeal was declared invalid due to incomplete documentation. The site is identified as a “district centre” within the Rural Spatial & Economic Strategy (RSES) and Kilkenny’s planning framework, providing a policy basis for redevelopment.
Given the location close to the boundary between Waterford and Kilkenny, issues of jurisdiction and potential cross-border competition have also been noted. No confirmed timeline has been provided for leasing, fit out or opening of the centre. However, there is continued political and community interest in seeing the facility brought into active use.
Also, concerns have been raised in Wexford, particularly in New Ross. The proposed development, located about 15 minutes from the town, has prompted local objections over its potential impact on New Ross retailers. These concerns highlight broader regional implications of the development, extending beyond Waterford and underscoring the need to consider cross-county retail impacts in planning decisions.
A group of Abbey Community College, Ferrybank, students have been named finalists in the Certified Irish Angus Schools Competition. Caitlin Kinsella, Emily Kearns, and Emily Doyle met the Irish Angus cross calves they will rear for the first time at the National Ploughing Championships. Their project focuses on ecological and economic strategies for sustainable agriculture, exploring how sustainability can reduce costs, enhance recognition for farmers’ environmental efforts, and access financial support through schemes like the ABP Advantage Programme and Kepak/Tírlán 2020. The students will promote the Angus breed locally, host knowledge-sharing events, and produce resources to improve on-farm ecology. Finalists benefit financially from selling the calves, with the winning team receiving an additional €2,000 for further education.
