HGVs, Empty Shops And Missed Links: Castledermot’s Town Plan Open To Public For Third Consultation

Thursday, 23 October 2025 14:46

By Martin Osborne - Head of News. Got a story? Email news@kfmradio.com

Urban analysis of the town centre points to pockets of vacancy and dereliction, particularly along Main Street.

The Town Regeneration Team at Kildare County Council is inviting the public to take part in the third consultation for the Castledermot Town Centre First Plan.

Building on the findings of earlier community and business surveys, as well as design workshops, the draft plan presents a snapshot of Castledermot’s transport network, parking, land use, and public realm.

This stage of consultation allows residents to review progress and share their views on the emerging proposals that will guide the town’s regeneration.

Analysis to date highlights Castledermot’s strong walkability, with almost the entire town centre located within a five-minute walk and most residential areas within ten minutes.

However, several issues have also been identified.

Heavy Goods Vehicles continue to pass through the town centre due to turning restrictions on the R418 towards Tullow, while limited pedestrian connectivity caused by limited river crossings and single-access housing estates restricts movement for walkers and cyclists.

The parking study indicates that while overall capacity generally meets demand, accessibility and distribution remain issues.

There is a lack of municipal and accessible parking, and pressure points have been noted near the playground and church, where inappropriate on-street parking often occurs.

Existing parking lots have been identified as potential spaces for community uses such as pop-up markets and local events.

Urban analysis of the town centre also points to pockets of vacancy and dereliction, particularly along Main Street.

In terms of social activity, the study found that Castledermot experiences limited night-time vibrancy, with concerns expressed about safety and inactive frontages after dark. Increasing evening uses and improving public lighting were highlighted to combat those issues.

Locals can have their say here.