Fine Gael TD for Kildare South and Chairman of the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party, Martin Heydon, has received confirmation that Newbridge is to share in a €6.3m allocation along with 6 other projects in the Eastern & Midlands Regional Assembly area under the Government’s Urban Regeneration Development Fund announced today.
Deputy Heydon said: “Kildare County Council had sought funding to progress plans for the creation of a cultural and civic quarter in Newbridge which would include
“Redevelopment of Kildare Central Library
“Public Realm Enhancements from the area around the town hall through George’s Street and Market Square and around main street to new library building to support development opportunities and to provide a high-quality town centre environment.
“The plan also envisages development of back land sites for commercial uses (which will be privately funded).
“These ambitious plans are set to become a reality with the securing of the first tranche of significant state funding to move it through the detailed design and planning permission phases.
“Considering the Urban Regeneration & Development Fund has a total of €2bn to allocate between now and 2027 this is a really significant step for us as we look to regenerate and invest in Newbridge as a key area to live and work.
“Coinciding with Kildare GAA’s ambitious plans to redevelop our County Grounds at St. Conleth’s Park, which I am working closely with them on, there is now a great potential for huge investment in Newbridge in the coming years.
“A few months ago, I participated in a forum between officials in Kildare GAA and Kildare County Council to explore synergies in both of their future development plans for Newbridge. Both sides have very ambitious plans and I believe everyone will benefit from a continued close working relationship into the future.
“Last week Government also announced that applications are being invited for funding under the new Large-Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). The fund will be open for applications until April 2019 and a minimum of €100m is being provided.
“I look forward to supporting Kildare GAA’s application to this fund for funding towards the badly needed redevelopment of St. Conleth’s Park also” Heydon concluded.