The long-awaited Teen Hangout Area for Killarney looks set to be developed on Park Road, with the proposed location identified as the layby across from the entrance to the Ardshanavooly estate, the Killarney Advertiser understands.

The project, which received €50,000 in funding earlier this year, is being advanced by Kerry County Council and will now go through a Part 8 public planning consultation before it can be approved by the elected councillors of the Killarney Municipal District.

The proposed site will feature an outdoor shelter, seating area, Bluetooth speakers, outdoor exercise units, bike racks, and a secure outdoor locker.

The design will also include wheelchair-accessible facilities to ensure it can be enjoyed by all young people.

Mayor Cllr Martin Grady welcomed the progress, saying it was “certainly not before time,” adding that Killarney has long lacked suitable youth amenities and spaces for both young people and community groups.