The Health Service Executive (HSE) has confirmed that it has begun a new feasibility study to identify a suitable site for a long-delayed Primary Care Centre in Killarney.

Cllr Marie Moloney received the update this week, with the HSE stating that both the Columbanus Hospital and Killarney District Hospital sites are now being assessed as potential locations.

In the statement, issued this week, the HSE said it “fully recognises the ongoing need for a Primary Care Centre in Killarney,” particularly following the setback linked to the Áras Phádraig planning application earlier this year.

The new study aims to determine “the most aligned and cost-effective solution on HSE lands” and to “build a purpose-built permanent facility that is fully integrated into the community healthcare network.”

The update marks the latest step in what has been a long-running effort to deliver a modern primary care facility for Killarney. The town has been without a dedicated plan for a centre since plans for Áras Phádraig were stalled due to planning complications.

While no timeline for the completion of the feasibility study has yet been given, the HSE confirmed it remains committed to delivering a “long-term, sustainable, purpose-built Primary Care Centre” for Killarney.

Killarney has secured its 24th Gold Medal at the 2025 SuperValu Tidy Towns Competition, continuing the town’s long-standing record of success in the national competition.

The town scored 395 points, marking another strong performance for the Killarney Tidy Towns group and reflecting the ongoing community effort to protect the local environment and maintain the town’s distinctive charm.

Cathaoirleach of the Killarney Municipal District, Cllr Martin Grady, said he was “very proud” of the achievement and paid tribute to the volunteers and council staff who continue to drive the project forward.

“This Gold Medal is a recognition of the dedication shown across the community, from residents, traders, tidiness groups and municipal staff , day after day,” he said.

“Winning 24 Gold Medals is no small feat. It sends a clear message that Killarney is not only a top location for visitors and tourism, but also a place where people live with pride and care for their town.”

Among the initiatives praised were the Coffee Cup Project, which has significantly reduced the use of single-use takeaway cups, and the utility box mural scheme, which continues to brighten key streets across the town.

Cllr Grady said the achievement reflects Killarney’s strong community spirit and commitment to improvement.

“What matters most is that Killarney continues to be a place where people enjoy living, working and visiting,” he added. “The medal is an important milestone but the work doesn’t stop here.”
Killarney’s success came alongside recognition for other Kerry towns, including Tralee, Kenmare and Listowel.