North Quays updates: New bridge, apartments and train station parking concerns
Updates on the North Quays development were provided by Kilkenny County Council during a meeting held at Ferrybank Library this week.
Key key features of the site are starting to take shape, including the sustainable transport bridge, transport hub and southern plaza around the Clock Tower.
Works on the sustainable transport bridge are progressing with the installation of the edge railings, glass panels and pedestrian barriers.
Thereafter the remaining finishing works, such as surfacing, lighting, street furniture and pier protection will commence, followed by the final bridge surfacing, which is expected to commence in early summer when temperatures become more suitable.
The bridge’s temporary steel supports have now been removed from the river.
The South Plaza will provide a landscaped public realm area around the Clock Tower, with seating, lighting, green area and bicycle facilities.
Following on from significant delays, works are expected to be completed later this month
Final snagging checks and safety audits will be completed in May, in advance of the full area being made open to the public.
Public access from the South Plaza to the sustainable transport bridge will be closed off and secured until the bridge opens to the public in 2027.
Scaffolding has been removed from the Northern elevation of the new transport hub.
Finishing works are continuing to the train station building, including mechanical and electrical fitout. Internal finishing works are well advanced and access lifts are currently being installed.
External works to the north of the train station are also being finished out. This includes the Bus Eireann depot area, platforms, the northern plaza and set-down areas.
Harcourt Developments continue to liaise with the Land Development Agency on the roll out of the residential development elements of Phase 1 of the SDZ development.
A planning application for redesign of the approved residential composition was submitted, and the Council has sought further information in relation to this application.
Subject to planning, it is anticipated that works will commence on site in the second half of 2026, with the public infrastructure integration works being fast-tracked to facilitate the earliest possible opening of the transport hub and sustainable transport bridge in 2027.
More updates on the residential aspects of the North Quays are available HERE
At this week’ Piltown Municipal District Meeting, councillors voiced concern regarding the limited parking that will be available at the new transport hub.
According to Phase One development plans, 200 parking spaces will be available at the transport hub, roughly the same amount currently available at Plunkett Station.
Cllr Fidelis Doherty said “it would seem there isn’t huge capacity for parking at the train station". She said this may become an issue.
Cllr Pat Dunphy said “its not good enough", whilst Cllr Ger Frisby said the current provision of parking is "not in any way capable.”
The councillors were told that their concerns will be passed onto the relevant North Quays team.
(Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme)
