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A new report which recommends a multi-purpose facility for Áras Phádraig site – which the Killarney Advertiser proposed two years ago - is a very welcome addition to the town.

BY MICHELLE CREAN

In 2017, our team here designed an artist's impression for this site and we got a very positive response.
We’re delighted to hear that the voice of the community is being heard.
A feasibility study and business plan for the site in Killarney has been completed following an extensive consultation and review process undertaken by the Killarney Municipal District of Kerry County Council.
The report, completed by Exodea Consulting, recommends the development of a new integrated multi-purpose facility on the existing Lewis Road site.
The core components of a new multi-use facility which would replace the existing facility would include: a contemporary arts and theatre space with rehearsal, exhibition and gallery facilities, meeting rooms to be made available for a range of community uses, an educational space to accommodate the provision of training and skills courses and office space to suit the particular needs of Killarney town.
A key recommendation is that any new facility should be financially self-sustaining and remain in the ownership of Kerry County Council.
Cathaoirleach of the Killarney Municipal District, Cllr Niall Kelleher, said the feasibility study and business plan examined a number of options and scenarios for the redevelopment of the Áras Phádraig.
“The acquisition of the property by the County Council on behalf of the people of the Killarney Municipal District represents a very exciting opportunity for the area,” he said.
“This plan will form the basis on which we move forward with the development of this very important strategic site in Killarney town. It provides us with a number of options as well as financial projections which are designed to ensure that any new facility is sustainable financially. The elected members of the Killarney Municipal District have decided to set in train the development of masterplan for the Áras Phádraig site, including the adjacent Lewis Road carpark, to the benefit of the wider Lewis Road area and the town as a whole.”