Main Street in Killarney will close to traffic on Tuesday, September 1, as major public realm enhancement works recommence following the planned summer pause.

The street, running from Kenmare Place to Plunkett Street, had been temporarily resurfaced with bitumen and reopened for July and August to accommodate peak tourist traffic and local business trading.

That interim pause now comes to an end as contractors prepare to return to the site to begin laying new granite paving.

The road will remain closed to vehicular traffic through to late February, when the entire public realm project is scheduled for completion.

The overall timeline was adjusted earlier this year following unexpected delays caused by complex underground utilities and global material supply issues.

To reduce the impact on local trade during the autumn and winter months, the remaining construction will take place on a phased basis.

Sections of the street will gradually reopen to pedestrians as paving work progresses.

Specific plans are also in place to ensure the junction of Main Street and Plunkett Street reopens to vehicles in time for the annual Christmas in Killarney Parades.

The Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce continues to liaise directly with Kerry County Council on behalf of town centre traders throughout the construction period.

The town centre is set to play host to a vibrant street spectacle this weekend as West Kerry performance group MOTHÚ returns to mark the end of the summer season.

Taking place on Saturday, August 22, the free outdoor event will feature giant puppets, fire dancers, musicians, and lantern displays, bringing music, magic, and theatrical performance directly to the heart of the town.

The production, titled The Seeker or An Cuardaitheoir, draws inspiration from the writings of renowned 20th-century Irish language poet Seán Ó Ríordáin.

The performance explores themes of the soul, isolation, and rebirth, bringing the poet’s work to life through large-scale creative arts.

MOTHÚ is well known to local audiences following previous acclaimed street performances in Killarney, including Peig Mór and Aisling Ghobnait.

The spectacle will begin at Market Cross at 8.45pm, with the performance leading a parade through Main Street before finishing in College Square.
Organisers expect a large turnout for the free family event and recommend that attendees arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the route.