Progress expected on Old Kilcullen Heritage Trail

Examining the Heritage Trail study in 2023.

A further move to progress a Heritage Trail at Old Kilcullen is expected by mid to late June, writes Brian Byrne. Councillors were told this at yesterday's meeting of the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District, in response to a question from Cllr Tracey O'Dwyer asking for a timeline update for a Part 8 on the project.

A Part 8 is the process used by local authorities to give themselves planning permission for a project, usually in the Public Realm area. Simon Wallace of the Parks Department told the meeting that the project is currently awaiting the results of screening for appropriate access and environmental impact.

The Heritage Trail project has been led by the Old Kilcullen Area Community Association since 2020. In September of that year, Cllr Rob Power sought council support for the idea and to work with local landowners to establish public rights of way. In November 2020, Cllr Power also raised the possibility of restoring the Old Hacklow Road to pedestrian use as part of the project.

The idea subsequently received strong support from Cllrs Ivan Keatley and Tracey O’Dwyer, along with Rob Power, and Minister Martin Hayden. At the end of 2021, OKACA received a feasibility and design grant of €45,000 from the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Fund administered by the Department of Rural & Community Development, following an application through KCC.

The Council commissioned Athy-based Hayes Ryan Landscape Architects to prepare a study for a proposed trail, which would have viewing points to the ancient medieval Royal Site of Knockaulin (Dun Ailinne), The Curragh, The Hill of Allen, The Dublin and Wicklow Mountains and Mount Leinster, as well as links to the historic features within the area of Old Kilcullen. The plan also provided for the potential to extend links along back roads to Yellow Bog and The Curragh.

A presentation of the study in March 2023, hosted by the KCC Parks Department in Halverstown School, attracted a strong level of interest. Landscape architect Geraldine Hayes was on hand to explain the details of the study, which included suggested routes for 'quiet road' techniques that would facilitate safe use of the public road sections for walkers.

At yesterday's MD meeting, Cllr O'Dwyer accepted the response, noting that AA and EIA assessments are a normal part of the planning process.

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