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Chamber welcomes plans for historic gate lodge

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Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce has enthusiastically welcomed plans for an important conservation, restoration and upgrading project involving a landmark building within the boundaries of Killarney National Park.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has sought planning permission for an extension to the rear of the front gate lodge at the first entrance to the park at Muckross.

The striking Victorian building, which is a protected structure, is located just inside the gates at the pedestrian entrance to Muckross Abbey at what is known locally as the jarvey entrance to the park.

The historic stone building, which was part of the Herbert Estate and was occupied by several gatekeepers down through the generations, has more recently been used as a base for Irish and international students who are working on a variety of projects relating to the National Park.

They are engaged in research initiatives and volunteer rhododendron clearing and they work closely with the park rangers.

The planning application submitted to Kerry County Council seeks approval for a single-storey extension to the rear of the gate lodge to facilitate a bedroom, bathroom, hallway and plant utility room.

The application also includes parking for two cars, a new waste water treatment system with percolation area, drainage provision and all associated ancillary works.

PROTECTED STRUCTURE

Important conservation repairs planned for the protected structure will include work on the feature slate roof and metal lattice windows, the reinstatement of the historic stone chimney, internal joinery and lime plaster.

The works will also include the installation of insulated slab with underfloor heating at ground level and associated mechanical and electrical services.

Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce President, Niall Kelleher, said the gate lodge has been a familiar and much-loved landmark for locals and it has been admired and photographed by hundreds of thousands of visitors down through the years.

“It is so important that the building is maintained to a high standard and that its integrity is maintained. Subject to planning approval, this work will ensure that it is protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy,” he said.
“It is very encouraging to see the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage spending further funds on the upkeep of the National Park and their commitment in Killarney is encouraging and welcome."

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Network Ireland Kerry discuss sustainable success

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Network Ireland Kerry held their third annual collaboration event last Wednesday at the Rose Hotel, Tralee. The theme was: “The Journey to Sustainable Success” which brought three industry experts together to talk about their own journey to sustainable successful.

Business professionals, entrepreneurs, and financial leaders came together for this highly anticipated event to learn about the journey from becoming a start-up, to a small-to-medium enterprise (SME), and a large SME.

The event was opened by AIB Branch Liaison for Network Ireland Kerry and AIB Castleisland Branch Manager, Colleen Shannon. It was MC’d by AIB Tralee Branch Manager, Stephen Stack.

Sarah Farrar of AINMHÌ, Garrett Dillon of Mr. Binman and Dillon Waste Ltd. and Susan Quirke-Crowley of Mounthawk Montessori School Group were among the speakers at the event.

These leaders spoke about their challenges, milestones, and breakthroughs they encountered, from launching an idea to scaling operations nationally.

Tara Elzingre of Tara Elzingre Consultancy, Zaneta Labuz-Czerwein of Rustic Boowa and Sharon Hartnett of U Coaching promoted their businesses for ‘Minute on the Mic’

Emily Reen, Network Ireland Kerry President, described the event as a testament to the power of partnership. She said: “The event underscored a powerful message: sustainable business success is not a solo journey. With the right partnerships, teams and financial tools, businesses of all sizes can grow with purpose, resilience, and long-term impact.”

Network Ireland Kerry will host their next monthly event on November 12 in Killarney and in collaboration with the Kerry Local Enterprise Office, titled: “Gain Competitive Advantage in Your Business”. This event will be MC’d by Karen Ronan, 2025 National Vice President of Network Ireland and CEO of Galway Chamber. This event is open to non-members and members, and everyone is welcome from 6 pm for networking and refreshments, with the event taking place from 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm.

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Minor injury clinic to open by this time next year

The Killarney Local Injury Clinic is expected to be open by Q3 2026, according to the HSE. The proposed unit will be located on the grounds of St Columbanus Home. […]

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The Killarney Local Injury Clinic is expected to be open by Q3 2026, according to the HSE. The proposed unit will be located on the grounds of St Columbanus Home.

The timeline was confirmed in response to a Parliamentary Question from Fianna Fáil TD Michael Cahill, who said the project will follow the relocation of the Community Nursing Unit from its current site to the grounds of the old St Finan’s Hospital. Once the transfer is complete, construction of the injury clinic can proceed.
Deputy Cahill described the two new health facilities as “a fantastic addition for Killarney and the wider East, Mid, and South Kerry regions” and noted they will help reduce waiting times at University Hospital Kerry A&E.
“I will continue to push for enhanced health services for our people,” added the Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Older People.
The new clinic is expected to provide urgent care services for local residents, easing pressure on hospital emergency departments and improving access to timely treatment in the Killarney area.

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